Remedial Construction Solutions for Homeowners Facing Weathertight Issues

Owning a home comes with its joys and challenges. One of the most concerning issues that homeowners may encounter is weathertight problems. Whether it’s leaky roofs, drafty windows, or moisture seeping through walls, these issues can lead to discomfort, structural damage, and increased energy bills if left unaddressed. However, with the right remedial construction solutions, homeowners can effectively tackle these issues and restore their homes to a weathertight condition.

Identifying Weathertight Issues

Before diving into remedial construction, it’s crucial to identify the specific weathertight issues plaguing your home. Common signs include water stains on ceilings or walls, peeling paint, mold growth, condensation on windows, and drafts. Conducting a thorough inspection, both indoors and outdoors, can help pinpoint the sources of the problem.

Weathertight Issues – Signs to Look Out For

From 1990 to 2004, a large number of houses were built using construction methods and systems that have not withstood the weather conditions in New Zealand. The majority of the leaky building problems have arisen in homes built with plaster cladding systems fixed directly to the timber framing. Once water or moisture gets behind direct fixed cladding, in the absence of a drainage and drying cavity (mandatory since 2004 for most cladding systems), the water becomes trapped in the wall structure.

During this period there was a prolific growth in the use of monolithic plaster cladding systems and few experienced and skilled tradespeople available to install these systems. There was no formal trade qualification or proper installation training available for these exterior plaster cladding systems. Consequently, a large number of the plaster cladding systems constructed during that period were installed by unqualified labour with inadequate supervision by experienced building professions.

The increased use of monolithic cladding systems and the flexible design options available with these systems brought changes in design trends. Higher risk designs became commonplace and have contributed to the leaky building problem. Higher risk design factors associated with leaky buildings include:

recessed windows
flat roofs with narrow or no eaves
solid balustrades with flat tops and no waterproofing
complex roof and envelope design
cantilevered balconies with joists penetrating the cladding
waterproof membranes to decks and gutters
penetrations through the claddings (i.e. pergola beams, rafters)

Untreated kiln-dried framing timber was extensively used for building homes between 1996 and 2004 and is highly susceptible to rot when moisture penetrates the building envelope. Whilst not the cause of leaky buildings, the use of untreated timber has increased the extent of damage to the timber framing and shortened the timeframe in which timber decay will occur. Since 2004, treated timber has become mandatory for timber framed construction.

Aluminium joinery has played a major role in the leaky building crisis with moisture often leaking into the wall structure through poorly flashed window penetrations in the cladding system and moisture leaking directly into the wall structure through the aluminium joinery mitres.

Roof Repairs and Maintenance

The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Any damage or deterioration to the roof can compromise its ability to keep water out. Remedial construction for roofs may include repairing damaged shingles, replacing worn-out flashing, sealing roof penetrations, and ensuring proper drainage to prevent water pooling. Regular roof maintenance, such as gutter cleaning and inspections, is also essential in preventing future weathertight issues.

Window and Door Sealing

Windows and doors are common entry points for moisture and drafts. Sealing gaps and cracks around window frames and doorways can significantly improve the weathertightness of your home. Weatherstripping and caulking are simple yet effective solutions for sealing these openings, preventing air and water infiltration.

Exterior Wall Waterproofing

Exterior walls can also be vulnerable to moisture intrusion, especially in areas with heavy rainfall or high humidity. Waterproofing exterior walls involves applying a waterproof membrane or sealant to protect against water penetration. Additionally, repairing damaged siding or masonry and ensuring proper drainage away from the foundation can help maintain a weathertight envelope.

Recladding

Recladding your home will require building consent, whether you are planning on completing a partial reclad to an area of your home or a full reclad of the entire property. Building consent can take 3-4 months to process and it is essential to work with an experienced architect to get this process right and avoid unnecessary delays. Recladding offers the opportunity to repair and structural damage which may have been caused to internal framing timbers. You are also able to upgrade the insulation of your home and bring the building up to Building Code standard.

Foundation Waterproofing

A solid foundation is essential for a weathertight home. Waterproofing the foundation involves installing a waterproof membrane or coating to prevent moisture from seeping into the basement or crawl space. Proper grading and drainage around the foundation perimeter are also critical in directing water away from the structure.

Professional Assistance

While some minor remedial construction tasks can be DIY-friendly, the majority of weathertightness works will require the expertise of licensed building and design professionals. Hiring licensed building contractors ensures that the remedial work is done correctly and meets building code requirements. Professional contractors can also provide tailored solutions based on the specific needs and challenges of your home.

Conclusion

Weathertight issues can compromise the comfort, safety, and integrity of your home. However, with proactive measures and remedial construction solutions, homeowners can effectively address these issues and safeguard their investment.

From roof repairs and window sealing to recladding, exterior wall waterproofing and foundation maintenance, there are various strategies available to enhance the weathertightness of your home.

By identifying and addressing these issues and working with professionals to repair underlying issues and replace the building materials causing problems, homeowners can add value to their home and enjoy a dry, comfortable, and energy-efficient living environment for years to come.