With a host of recent industry issues, including the tightening of labour markets, problems associated with moisture intrusion into wall cavities, heightened awareness of mould-related health problems, and a need for increased productivity at the jobsite, lightweight and waterproof foam tile backer boards are serving as a well-suited solution for Canadian projects.
Most floorcovering failures result from design mistakes, lack of groundwater barriers, and placement of the material before concrete has dried to safe levels. Therefore, all members of the project team must collaborate at every stage, such as the design, placement, curing, and relative humidity (RH) testing of the concrete.
Below-grade shotcrete walls have historically been susceptible to water intrusion. The article explores the challenges associated with waterproofing below-grade walls at property lines and recent technical developments to improve watertightness.
During the restoration of a clock tower in Huntsville, Ont., the contractor uncovered significant deterioration within the multi-wythe clay brick exterior walls. The project was expanded to include: demolition of the deteriorated brick walls, reconstruction of the tower walls one corner at a time, replacement of the steel roof, and recladding of the tower exterior walls.
Owners, engineers, and contractors involved in the design, operation, maintenance, and restoration of parking garages and building podium decks need to understand the role and importance of waterproofing systems in protecting these facilities.
Proper waterproofing of construction joints plays a vital role in fortifying below-grade concrete structures. Construction joints are stopping places—caused by non-continuous concrete pour—and a plane of weakness.
The Vancouver Island Chapter of CSC will hold a lunch presentation on “Next Generation Bathrooms” at Fireside Grill on April 12. Maria Rudman (Schluter Systems Canada) will lead the discussion.
Is water penetration in the below-grade structure an inevitable phenomenon? Not anymore. Shop drawings are proving extensive design, coupled with project-specific information, can help turn the tide.
