Waterproofing

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At the center of this envelope is an essential component: the air and water-resistive barrier (AWRB). These barriers play a crucial role in preventing moisture and air infiltration, maintaining structural integrity, and enhancing energy efficiency.

Waterproofing buildings during construction is vital for maximizing building longevity. If industry professionals move beyond the fundamentals, they can master weatherproofing. What essential strategies must they learn?

Western Specialty Contractors’ Orlando, FL recently completed a four-month project to restore and waterproof the façade of 444 Seabreeze Blvd. in Daytona, Fla.

Forensic and maintenance inspections of roofing systems provide huge benefits to all stakeholders. Regular visual inspections can ensure early detection of problems such as leaks, ponding water, punctures, cracks, or membrane damage.

Without a basic understanding of surfactants and how they impact the performance of building wrap, builders and contractors could potentially jeopardize the long-term durability of the exterior wall assembly. 

Our 2025 issue is here! Browse topics from best practices for improving window openings, to how polyiso enhances building performance, and the importance of low-VOC insulation.

Constructing on top of the water instead of retreating from it lets cities expand without fighting for available inland space or worrying about rising tides. However, it’s not an easy process. Building envelopes will need to adapt to support these towns of the future.

This article is the author's second in a series on waterproofing penetrations.  Waterproofing Penetrations 102 takes a deep dive into unique penetrations and often challenging conditions. The types of assemblies that will be explored include cluster penetrations, fireproofed penetrations, and extreme temperature pipes (hot or sub-freezing).