When wind-driven rain caused water to enter a manufacturing office, this Brooklyn Park facility faced moisture damage to the interior sheetrock and carpet. After the property manager conducted a standard roof inspection and confirmed the cap was intact, the Fresh Paint team was called in to provide a definitive diagnosis and stop the persistent leaks.
Inspection of the exterior revealed significant efflorescence beneath several windows and highly porous concrete block masonry. With the roof cap already ruled out as the source, the exterior wall system became the primary focus of the investigation.
Key Takeaways
- THE CHALLENGEWater intruded through the building envelope during heavy rainstorms, causing interior damage.
- THE COATINGApplied a specialized siloxane water repellent to chemically bond with and seal the porous masonry.
- THE RESULTSuccessfully stopped all water intrusion after a single test phase, and continues to be leak-free several months later.
To determine the exact cause of the leak, a vendor partner conducted a RILEM tube test, which measures how quickly water absorbs into the block. The test confirmed the masonry acted like a sponge because it lacked a proper sealer. Based on the test results, Fresh Paint selected Prosoco Sure Klean Weather Seal Siloxane to reduce water absorption while maintaining the appearance of the existing concrete block.
Project Summary
| Client Profile: |
Manufacturing Facility Manager |
| Project Location: |
Brooklyn Park, MN |
| Primary Objective: |
Identify the source of water intrusion and hire an industrial painting company to seal the building envelope. |
| Coating System: |
Prosoco Sure Klean Weather Seal Siloxane applied during our specialty structure painting process. |
| Key Outcome: |
Eliminated water leaks and secured the interior against future weather damage. |
Diagnosing the Masonry Moisture Problem
The initial site evaluation revealed water damage on the interior walls and flooring directly correlating with wind-driven rain events. While the roof cap initially seemed like the likely culprit, an inspection ruled it out. The focus shifted to the exterior block walls, which exhibited signs of water travel, including noticeable efflorescence beneath several window frames.
A RILEM tube test provided the necessary data, demonstrating extreme porosity in the concrete blocks. Without a protective barrier, the masonry absorbed rainwater rapidly, drawing moisture straight into the interior cavity. This required an immediate and effective sealing approach to prevent further structural and cosmetic damage.
Applying the Protective Siloxane Coating
The execution started with a strategic testing phase. Our Fresh Paint team applied Prosoco Sure Klean Weather Seal Siloxane to the front-facing wall of the building, wrapping around the corners to establish a clean stopping point. This clear water repellent is specifically engineered to chemically bond with masonry, providing a breathable yet highly water-resistant shield.
The project manager coordinated the test application to span across several months, allowing the facility to monitor performance during seasonal storms. Our team maintained clear communication to ensure minimal disruption to their daily operations.
Long-Term Water Resistance Results
Following the completion of the entire building, the facility experienced no further water intrusion, even during driving rainstorms. The clear sealer maintained the natural look of the concrete block while providing an essential layer of protection against the Minnesota elements.
"I am very satisfied with the performance of the Fresh Paint team, and really appreciate the honesty, integrity, and open communication throughout this process." - (Facility Manager, Manufacturing Office)
This targeted approach not only resolved the immediate interior damage issue but also extended the lifespan of the building envelope. By testing the solution first, the client gained confidence in the product's efficacy, resulting in a successful, long-term fix for their commercial property.
Need a Solution for Your Building Envelope?
We have decades of experience protecting commercial and industrial properties across the Twin Cities from harsh weather conditions. Our team provides accurate diagnostics and effective coating solutions tailored to your specific substrate.
Do you need help resolving a similar masonry issue in Brooklyn Park? Request a proposal today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you stop water from leaking through concrete blocks in Brooklyn Park?
We stop water intrusion by applying a high-quality siloxane water repellent. This product chemically bonds with the porous concrete block to create a moisture barrier without altering the building's natural appearance.
What is a RILEM tube test used for on commercial buildings?
A RILEM tube test measures the rate at which water absorbs into a masonry surface. It helps our project managers determine the porosity of brick or concrete block and verifies if a sealer is necessary to prevent leaks.
Will clear masonry sealer change the color of my building?
No, a professional clear siloxane sealer does not change the color of the building. It penetrates the substrate and dries clear, preserving the natural aesthetic while providing robust weather protection.