Waterproofing Challenges in Hydrostatic Conditions

This presentation initially took place at IIBEC's International Convention and Trade Show in Orlando, Florida.

As our urban and suburban spaces are becoming increasingly congested, the building industry is designing and constructing projects in areas and conditions that were previously considered uninhabitable, including below-grade spaces under constant hydrostatic pressure. Efforts to make such spaces habitable may include the use of waterproofing systems not previously used in the region. Discussion of the application of familiar materials in unfamiliar conditions may be useful to colleagues and industry professionals to help identify potential hazards and pitfalls associated with these waterproofing applications. In addition to the selection of waterproofing material and design detailing, this presentation explores preconstruction activities and applied strategies from the presenters’ experience. Various lessons learned in the field from projects with similar hydrostatic conditions are also reviewed. These lessons include recommended considerations for concrete placement, appropriate interfaces with other building enclosure systems, and repair solutions for possible damages resulting from unanticipated field conditions. We will also outline strategies for successfully implementing delegated designs within both traditional and modern project delivery methods. In traditional design-bid-build projects, specifications play a critical role in defining the expectations for project team members. Meanwhile, newer project delivery methods ensure specialty designers and contractors are contracted early in the design process. With the advent of building enclosure commissioning, early project involvement of building enclosure consultants and BECx Providers can add value in the form of additional quality assurance to protect stakeholder interests.

Edward L. Lehman, RRO, REWO, REWC, AIA, CDT, CEI, BECxP, CxA+BE
Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates Inc. | Duluth, GA

Edward L. Lehman has well-rounded experience in the design and construction of various types of commercial buildings and is involved in building enclosure consulting and commissioning for new construction and existing building projects. In addition to providing consulting services, Lehman has served in multiple other roles, including contract administration for architects and quality assurance management for large-scale general contractors. He has participated in a variety of peer reviews, analyses of mock-up panels, and preinstallation meetings, and he has coordinated field performance testing on waterproofing, roofing, and glass/glazing systems.

Douglas R. Stieve, RRC, AIA
Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates Inc. | New York, NY

Douglas R. Stieve is a building enclosure consultant who specializes in roof and waterproofing consulting as well as masonry construction. He has experience with many types of materials, including low-and steep-slope roofing as well as plaza deck, vegetative roof, and subgrade waterproofing systems. Stieve has worked on projects that have won awards from the American Institute of Architects, Engineering News-Record, and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, among other organizations. He has authored several articles and technical papers, and he has lectured throughout the United States on the subjects of roofing, waterproofing, and masonry construction.