Pushing the building envelope below grade

A presentation for the RCI region 6 winter symposium was held in Honolulu. The focus of the presentation was the basics of the below grade methods and leak remediation methods that are not covered in below grade waterproofing. The failures associated with termite damage, the potential health effects and liability of waterproofing failure were also analyzed. Because of a proliferation of below grade waterproofing products designers find themselves lagging behind in keeping up with the changes. Designers are suggested to focus on an appropriate waterproofing system according to the intended use, geographic and climatic conditions and skill of the local work force.