Water infiltration in a building is one of the most damaging problems for the structure and enjoyment of the premises.
In addition to structural deterioration, water infiltration can cause mold growth and the appearance of carpenter ants, which seek out damp environments.
Two types of water infiltration
There are two types of water infiltration:
1- Direct – such as a hole in the envelope that allows water to enter directly inside or a crack in the foundation wall.
2- Indirect – for example the water which runs behind the bricks and which does not find its way to evacuate outside, therefore, the water remains trapped at the base of the facing and ends up deteriorating the wood by l absorption of materials and by capillarity.
Water infiltration at subsoil
In fact, the basement is the most vulnerable area to water infiltration, and the causes are numerous:
1- French drain blocked or poorly installed;
2- Cracks in the foundation walls ;
3- Deficiency in the sealing at the junction between the foundations and the footing;
4- Deficiency in the sealing at the junction between the exterior facing and the foundations;
5- The absence of copings, etc.
Factors to prevent water infiltration
1- A suitable slope around the perimeter of the building;
2- The presence of weep holes at the base of the exterior facing and above the openings;
3- Regular maintenance work on sealing joints and flashings in the building envelope
4- Repair of cracks in foundation walls;
To determine the causes and source of the water infiltration, the engineer from Onesta Conseils conducts a visual inspection and tests in areas suspected of providing a pathway for water to enter the building. These tests are as follows:
1- A leak test which consists of watering the outside side of the areas studied using a garden hose;
2- Moisture tests in materials using a moisture detector;
3- Detection of insulation or wet materials behind the finishes using an infrared camera;
4- Exploratory cuts in the affected areas to verify the condition of the construction materials;
Hidden defects files regularly report water infiltration and the resulting structural deterioration in the building.
If damage is found (appearance of molds harmful to health, weakening of the building structure, etc.), we will inform you of the seriousness of the situation and the appropriate remedial measures to be taken, according to the mandate.
Water infiltration through a crack in the foundation wall
Infiltration of water in the basement