Water Intrusion: Uncovering the Hidden Culprit
“Where in the heck is this water coming in from?”
Good question. Subsurface water intrusion (drainage) is one thing, but above-ground intruding water is another. There can be so many sources of entry: rain, driven rain, water supply lines, waste drain lines, appliance supply lines, tubs and showers, windows and doors, roofs, siding,….the list goes on and on.
From major issues to minor nuisances, intruding water can cause problems within structures that can eventually “drain” your bank account if you don’t address them effectively. Diagnosing them can sometimes be straightforward while at other times very difficult and complicated. As in the photo above, is the problem the slider door flashing below the stucco, the balcony to threshold flashing, pan flashing, or defective door assembly? Answer: defective door assembly and possibly pan flashing as well. Solution: Completely replace the sliding door unit and install all flashings properly.
Understanding the issue
The key to understanding water intrusion issues is to have a good command of building envelope design (interior and exterior applications) and weatherproofing practices. Experience is also a plus. The use of hi-tech equipment (moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras) can also help facilitate the locations of intruding water and excessive moisture condition areas.
As we deal with the issue of Intruding Water, it’s crucial to grasp the different ways it can affect your property. Whether it’s water getting in through a damaged roof, seeping through windows and doors, or just the constant challenge of dampness creeping in, understanding how Intruding Water works is vital. These problems can show up in various ways, from small leaks that leave their mark to more serious floods that need immediate attention. In such cases, knowing how to spot signs of water getting in, whether it’s through water supply lines, waste drain lines, or even appliance supply lines, is essential. It’s a balancing act between water entering and keeping your property strong, where experience and advanced tools like Flir thermal imaging cameras and Delmhorst moisture meters can make a big difference in protecting your property
Anderberg Construction Consulting, Inc. utilizes Flir thermal imaging camera technology and Delmhorst moisture meters in their water intrusion discovery practices.
