CONSTRUCTION DEFECTS


WHY BELOW GRADE WALLS FAIL

 

Spring 1996

Common Problems:

  • Grade slopes toward building.
  • Inadequate waterproof membrane.
  • No protection board.
  • No extension of waterproof membrane above grade or over footing.
  • No foundation drain.
  • No gravel or filter fabric around drain.
  • No waterproof membrane under slab.
 

Potential Damage:

  • Efflorescence and water stains on walls
  • Ponding against building and on basement floors.
  • Moisture migration though slabs.


 

The Five Basic Elements For Waterproofing Below Grade Walls:

  • Waterproof membrane
  • Protection board
  • Gravel Fill
  • Foundation Drain
  • Filter Fabric
 

Recommended Solutions:

  • slope the finish grade away from the building,
  • install a membrane under the concrete building slab,
  • provide a cant strip to transition the waterproof membrane at any 90 degree angle,
  • install ultraviolet protection for the above-grade waterproofing.

Information provided by Building Analysts, a full-service architectural and engineering firm with many years of experience in construction litigation. Their services include: architectural and structural investigations, repair recommendations, preparation of exhibits and expert testimony. Contact Building Analysts at (619) 234-8153.

Contact The Miller Law Firm

[ASPHALT] [BALCONY/DECK FAILURE] [CRAWLSPACES] [FIREPLACES] [FLOORS/CEILING FAILURE]
[NOISE INTRUSION] [ROOF LEAKS] [TILE ROOF LEAKS] [FLAT ROOF LEAKS] [SHOWER INSTALLATION FAILURE]
[SOIL SUBSIDENCE] [SHEAR WALLS] [BELOW GRADE WALLS] [RETAINING WALLS] [HOLD DOWNS] [WINDOWS]
[WINDOW FLASHING FAILURE] [SLIDING GLASS DOORS] [WOOD ROT]

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