Rooftops during thawing
During the thawing season, roof surfaces face a surge of hidden water as ice melts and refreezes at joints and penetrations. This freeze thaw cycle can widen cracks in membranes and damage flashing where pipes and skylights pass through the deck. Choose robust membrane systems such as self adhesive SBS or torch-applied bituminous sheets alongside properly installed flashing. Before installation, ensure the deck is clean, dry, and sloped toward drainage to prevent pooling.
Install a continuous membrane with routed overlaps and terminations at parapets, vents, and roof penetrations. Use a tapered insulation layer to maintain gravity drainage and reduce standing water after meltwater accumulations. Develop a detailing plan for gutters and downspouts to carry meltwater away from edges. Testing with a water test or non destructive moisture probe helps verify coverage before finishing.
Exterior wall sealing
Exterior walls face water ingress through joints, window openings, and façade penetrations during thawing, a risk that can reach basements. Sealants with high elasticity and UV resistance bridge movement while preventing capillary seepage. Install flashing at corners and windows and integrate with a continuous waterproof coating on the wall surface. For cracked masonry, apply polymer modified cementitious coatings or injection sealants to halt leaks.
Regular inspection after heavy melt events reveals hairline cracks and mis aligned flashing that can become leaks. Clean gutters and ensure downspouts discharge away from foundations to keep wall surfaces dry. Consider hydrophobic coatings on exterior surfaces to repel water while allowing breathability. Document repairs and monitor for damp patches using moisture meters or infrared cameras when possible.
Bathroom waterproofing
In bathrooms, proper waterproofing is critical for showers, tubs, and wet rooms where steam accelerates moisture. Choose sheet membranes or liquid membranes behind tiles, combined with cementitious backer boards for best durability. Follow installation steps: surface prep, crack repair, primer, membrane application, and a final waterproof test. Detail niches, benches, and transitions with integrated membranes to prevent hidden leaks.
After construction, perform regular checks on grout lines and seals to catch moisture early. Re grout when color fade or hairline cracks appear, and reseal around fixtures and tile edges. Ventilation and rapid cleanup after showers reduce humidity and protect the waterproof layer. Advances in spray applied membranes and drain compliant systems are expanding the options for bathrooms.