Bert Tuckpointing & Restoration, Inc.

Chicagoland Masonry Repair and Restoration Services

Waterproofing

Waterproofing is a common preventative maintenance service that can minimize your masonry’s exposure to water damage. Just as tuckpointing will safeguard your mortar, waterproofing will shield your masonry from wind driven and saturating rains.

Likely candidates for waterproofing include smooth/splitface concrete block, limestone, renaissance stone, single wythe brick veneer walls, and sandblasted/waterblasted common brick as they are all particularly porous. BTR also recommends sealing all types of masonry after any sort of rebuilding process is completed in order to sustain the new masonry work.

A standardRilem Tube test is used by BTR to determine water intrusion resistance and deflection. Once the saturation level is known, BTR can predict which type of waterproofing material would be most effective on the masonry facade in question. BTRutilizes two types of waterproofing agents: siloxane clearcoat and elastomeric colorcoat. Both products bond chemically to the substrate of the brick, block or stone and allow them to breathe. Siloxane agents are rolled or sprayed onto the masonry and do not change the appearance of the façade at all. Typically, clearcoat agents are applied to brick and stone surfaces. Elastomeric sealants are decorative coatings that are hand brushed on to the masonry and come in a variety of colors. Due to the porosity of concrete block, the elastomeric sealants are the best option for splitface and smooth block surfaces. Water can penetrate straight through the block allowing moisture/condensation to form on the interior of the block, in between the studs, insulation and drywall. If not addressed, mold and other toxic spores can form between your walls creating a health risk to you and your family. Once the elastomeric paint is applied it locks out moisture and prevents drafts. BTR’S waterproofing applications are for above grade vertical surfaces exclusively. Waterproofing agents do require re-applications every so often as the products breakdown over time. Maintenance cycles of 3-5 years are recommended.