BC Building Envelope Leak Detection: Complete Guide
Guide to building envelope leak detection in BC. Understanding the leaky condo legacy, modern inspection methods, and protection strategies.
The BC building envelope crisis — the Leaky Condo Crisis — affected thousands of buildings from 1980-2000, causing billions in damage. While codes have improved, envelope leaks remain a significant concern.
The building envelope is the barrier between interior and exterior — walls, roofs, windows, doors, and foundations. In BC's coastal climate with over 1,200mm annual rainfall, envelope integrity is critical.
Indicators: interior staining after rain, bubbling exterior paint, mould on interior walls, efflorescence on masonry, musty odours, high humidity despite ventilation, draftiness near walls, higher energy bills.
Inspection methods include: visual exterior inspection, interior thermal imaging for moisture patterns, drone aerial thermal for multi-storey buildings, moisture meter testing, window sealant testing, and selective panel removal for direct inspection.
Repair approaches: targeted sealant replacement, window flashing repair, partial or full cladding replacement, balcony membrane replacement, and comprehensive rehabilitation for systemic issues. Scope depends on detection findings.
LeakInspections.ca — a division of Anyleak.ca and Leak.ca. Call 604-239-9934.
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LeakInspections.ca — a division of Anyleak.ca and Leak.ca — serves all of British Columbia with non-invasive leak detection since 1999.