Dictionary of Moisture Protection & Restoration

PREFACE Why do we use Division 07 00 00 Thermal and Moisture Protection (Waterproofing) and Preservation / Restoration in the same sentence? Because Waterproofing is an integral part of Preservation / Restoration. The only way we can preserve or restore a structure is to stop or prevent further water intrusion. We are well aware that water has destroyed or damaged more structures than wars and natural disasters have. We appear to ignore this fact when we attempt to preserve or restore our historic structures today. Our landmark architects, engineers and conservators face an enormous challenge. They are required to aesthetically preserve or restore historic structures with non-drainable walls; no longer used as originally designed but that must meet new seismic and local codes. Limited budgets and the requirements of the Preservation Briefs further complicate the work. It is understandable that waterproofing takes a back seat to aesthetics. On the other side, the contractors have their challenges. They are required to be proficient bricklayers, carpenters, iron workers, sheetmetal workers, stone masons, waterproofers and artists. The manufacturers are caught in the middle. They have to please the architects, engineers and owners, as well as the contractors who have different requirements. The contractors want inexpensive products, application-friendly with

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