GRLA’s Building Envelope Sciences team was hired to help solve a roof problem that originally had all good intentions of improving the performance of the roof system but had caused other problems.
The owner’s goal was to significantly increase the roof insulation as they were reroofing this building. The original masonry through-wall flashing was above the roof, however once additional insulation was added it was then buried beneath the new roof membrane (noted as a red line in the photo below). So instead of being directed out of the wall and onto the roof, water drained into the roof system and down an interior wall.
This story illustrates how easily risky construction conditions can be missed if you’re not specifically looking for them. The plans for the work had passed through many hands before it was finally installed. However, everyone failed to notice how modifying the roof would affect the wall system next to it.
Once GRLA was brought on board and analyzed the issues, we came up with a solution that involved removing the bottom four courses of masonry and then installing new through-wall flashing just above the new roof level (noted as a green line in photo above). It was an easy but somewhat expensive fix and one that would have been less costly if the work had been performed at the same time as the re-roof.
On your next waterproofing job—whether it be a roof, wall, or foundation—having a Building Envelope Science specialist on the project can ensure that you are solving all the problems you have.
GRLA’s Building Envelope Sciences team works with you to solve your most difficult building envelope challenges and protect your most valuable investment. Contact us to learn how we can help.