The Necessity of Waterproofing

Parking garages constructed below grade must be shielded from the surrounding environment. Moisture within the soil will penetrate the concrete structure if it is not protected by a waterproofing membrane that prevents moisture from entering the concrete and causing deterioration of the reinforcing steel.

Parking garages are also subjected to a harsh environment caused by their traffic. During the winter months, cars bring in moisture and deicing salts that drip onto the reinforced concrete structure. Moisture, particularly when combined with deicing salts, is the main contributor in the deterioration of reinforced concrete within parking garages. Steps must therefore be taken to protect the structure from the effects of these. The most common solution is the installation of a water-proofing membrane over the surface of a suspended slab.

Although very tough, concrete is, susceptible to deterioration. Corrosion occurs when moisture and salts seep through cracks and defects in the concrete slabs. This can result in the accumulation of rust on the reinforcing steel. If unmonitored, the structural capacity of the garage can be significantly compromised.

Waterproofing membranes prevent water penetration through the structure, and ultimately protect the vehicles and mechanical/electrical equipment inside. Membranes also keep water/moisture away from the concrete thereby preventing the corrosion of the reinforcing steel. Because waterproofing membranes are installed to protect the concrete, they are exposed to the same environmental conditions as the concrete. Membranes are also exposed to the effects of structural movement and vehicular and pedestrian traffic. As such, it is critical that the membranes be routinely examined for signs of deterioration and wear.

Expansion Joints are incorporated into a structure to prevent distortion, cracking and breaks in building materials by allowing for possible movement that may occur due to expansion and contraction of these materials and/or building settlement. Expansion joints within a parking garage must also be waterproofed to prevent the entry of moisture into the structure. As an expansion joint is required to accommodate movement while remaining waterproof, it can often be an area where water leakage occurs early.

GL Capasso Restoration will clean, repair and restore concrete in most types of parking garage structures. We install retro fit expansion joints. We will also use the most appropriate paint, sealant and waterproof coating systems needed for your garage whether it is a multilevel above/below grade and/or roof top parking structures.

Our services include:

• Beam Spall Repair With Exposed Tendons
• Epoxy Injection
• Shear Transfer Device & Expansion Joint Repair
• Double Tee Stem End Repair & Bearing Pad Replacement
• Steel Assembly Erection
• Non-Slip Ramp Coating
• Below Grade Water Control
• Reinforcement Corrosion
• Crack Repair
• Expansion Joint Replacement