Magnolia Glen in Chicago: Water Leak Inspections of Walls

PROBLEM

US-BES was awarded the project to investigate water leaks at the interior of the window heads on both the east and west elevations.  The building is located in Magnolia Glen in Chicago. Several other contractors had inspected the conditions and provided the Owner with assumptions on the causes of the infiltrations without evidence. Other suggestions were that the roof was the root of the leaks.

 The two-flat home is located in the neighborhood known as Magnolia Glen in Chicago.  The facades are of reddish brick masonry. The home was built in the early 1900s. 

SOLUTION

• Surveyed the current condition.

• Implemented an exterior water infiltration test.

• Reviewed the previous repair report and performed an extensive condition survey on all elevations.

• Performed ASTM E 2128 (American Society of Testing Materials; Standard Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls).

• Water leak investigation determined the cause of the leaks above the exterior of the windows.

VALUE

US-BES performed several tests above each window head on the masonry.  The source of the problem was identified.  The mortar joints and bricks have severely deteriorated from decades of freezing and thawing winter cycles.  Poor masonry repairs have also further worsened the integrity of the walls.  We submitted a report with findings and recommendations. The results of the findings are to replace one wythe of brick masonry between lintels and roof edge.  The parapet walls are included in the masonry replacement. The roof was discovered to be in good condition.