MTE's Involvement
MTE conducted extensive site investigations and water testing to trace the root cause. Water was observed seeping through the joint between the precast concrete parapet wall and the edge of the concrete slab. One of the main challenges during the investigation phase was identifying the actual water migration path. Surface water from rain or melting snow would penetrate through cracks in the concrete topping and travel along the waterproofing membrane before emerging elsewhere—making the entry point different from the visible leakage location.
Further analysis revealed that the existing waterproofing membrane terminated at the joint between the precast panels and the concrete slab—allowing water to bypass the membrane and infiltrate the office below, damaging equipment and infrastructure. Compounding the issue, the concrete topping was saturated with chlorides from de-icing salts carried in by vehicle traffic, accelerating deterioration.
MTE designed a multi-layered waterproofing solution to protect the rental office. This included:
- Removal and replacement of the cracked concrete topping and the compromised waterproofing membrane. The concrete slab near one of the columns was found to be severely deteriorated and required full removal and reconstruction.
- Joint sealing treatment using Prime Flex 900 XLV, a hydrophilic, low-viscosity polyurethane resin that reacts with water to expand and form a watertight foam, effectively sealing active leaks. This was used in combination with Sikaflex MTE worked closely with Prime Resins, the material supplier, and Capcrete, an authorized installer, during the design and execution of the waterproofing system.
- Custom concrete mix with water-repellent properties, used for the new concrete slab, topping, and curb.
- Improved drainage through enhanced surface slopes and new drain installations.
The project was completed successfully, and follow-up water tests confirmed the effectiveness of the solution—no further leaks were observed in the rental office space.