Leak diagnosis and repair is one of our specialties. This project showcases our ability to diagnose and address complex water intrusion issues in a healthcare setting. The 4245 Roosevelt Building in Seattle, WA is a brick medical facility where a persistent leak had resisted previous repair attempts. This situation called for our specialized skills in leak diagnosis and waterproofing. Our team’s expertise was crucial in identifying the source of the leaks and devising a comprehensive, lasting solution.
The Legacy Leak
The client had been grappling with a persistent leak for years. Despite previous waterproofing efforts, the leak continued unabated, adding to the growing financial burden and disruption to the tenant’s patient spaces.
Commercial Building Leak Diagnosis
Our involvement began with detailed isolation testing to pinpoint the leak’s origin. We examined the walls using clear water, while blue water tests focused on the deck-wall transition. A window was further tested using isolation techniques so as not to confuse any results from the wall. Incremental testing identified the wall as the primary source.
Given this discovery, we faced two options: deconstruct the wall or apply a waterproof coating to the exterior. Unfortunately, an exterior coating would change the look of the façade on this part of the building. Opting for an internal solution allowed us to preserve the building’s exterior aesthetics while addressing the root cause of the leak. This strategic approach underscored our commitment to effective solutions tailored to the building’s unique structure and our client’s preferences and budget.
Distinctive Leak Repair Solutions
Our solution focused on creating a new internal waterproofing system that maintained the building’s exterior look. Upon inspection, we discovered that the previous contractor’s work had failed to implement a shingling effect, causing water to be trapped under the metal flashing they had installed where the wall meets the deck.
The waterproofing applied during the previous repair attempt was also deteriorating. To address this, we utilized pre-coated cement panels to transition between old and new flashings, ensuring that any water within the brick wall could safely exit.
Tackling Obstacles During Repairs
Repairing the leak presented some challenges, especially because the brick wall was structural. Waterproofing and repairs had to be done in segments. A systematic approach meant confidence testing after the completion of each section. Thankfully, no leaks were detected.
However, we did encounter a specific issue at a corner: an 8-inch gap between flashings. Our solution was to remove the existing wall sheathing and create a new section, we established a robust seal to prevent water ingress. Our commitment to rigorous testing in each segment ensured no leaks were observed during the final testing process.
Prioritizing Client Satisfaction
Despite our comprehensive solutions and testing, a leak was identified the following winter. We returned to the site to investigate the issue at our own expense. Through further analysis, we discovered water was traveling internally some 30 feet around a corner, evading detection due to workspace obstructions.
The area, which included patient rooms with impermeable monolithic flooring, allowed water to travel down the wall to a lab space. There, it seeped out, soaking just the edges of the carpet. Desks in the workspace masked the signs of the leak, complicating the identification process.
To address the leak, we extended our waterproofing efforts to include an additional 20-25 feet of wall around the corner from the original repair site. This required removing additional brick and creating a new section of waterproofing to connect with our previously completed work, establishing an effective seal.
Throughout the project, our team remained dedicated to minimizing disruption in this sensitive workspace. The client took proactive measures, closing affected patient and doctor work areas during repairs to prioritize the health and safety of the occupants.
Unparalleled Leak Diagnosis and Repair Experience
With years of expertise in tricky commercial leak repair and waterproofing, we were well-equipped to handle the complexities of the persistent leak issues at 4245 Roosevelt. Our team’s diagnostic precision ensured accurate identification of the problem’s source, saving the client from further unnecessary expenses. Furthermore, we designed innovative leak repair solutions that secured the building envelope from water intrusion and mitigated water damage.
Our team’s multidisciplinary background is a primary factor in our effectiveness. We are comprised of architects and experienced tradespeople, and our leadership consists of professionals each with decades of experience, including hands-on construction. This blend of skills allows us to foresee potential issues and design practical, cost-effective solutions tailored to each project’s unique needs.