Bucktown in Chicago: Water Infiltration Investigation
PROBLEM
The residential building is a 12-story, steel framed structure with brick and limestone facades in Chicago. We were hired to discover the water infiltration sources along the lintel, parapet wall, and develop the repair drawings.
SOLUTION
Review previous repair report and perform an extensive condition survey on all elevations
Prepare a report for the client describing the areas of repairs.
Include select photographs of areas of damages.
Provide summary of the repair’s quantities.
Perform hands-on scaffold inspections and sound the limestone surfaces for stability.
VALUE
US-BES performed several water infiltration tests using a handheld nozzle on the brick masonry facade complying with the American Architectural Manufacturers Association test (AAMA - 501.2-03-Field Check Water Hose Test). After discovering very fine hairline cracks in the mortar joints that were allowing water to penetrate the masonry and infiltrate the interior of the building, we developed a low cost and effective scope of work to repair the mortar joins and manage the restoration work.
