Exterior water mitagation problem
Problem I need a solution for.
Existing building with shed roof and no overhang. The water/snow drops right up against the building. Additionally the slope of the surrounding landscaping is toward the building. Thus I have a swale, with the bottom of the swale against the building. All the water thus goes against the concrete block foundation, which was not waterproofed. Next I have the foundation only 1/2 up to 2 blocks high. Then the sill plate and 2 X 4 framing with 5/8″ exterior sheetrock, 1 X 2 lath, and cedar shingles on top.
What I need to do is to remove the shingles and sheetrock and waterproof the exterior to the 2X4’s and then berm the wall with dirt and grass, creating a swale that is +/- 2′ away from the building. At the bottom of the swale I plan to build a drain to pull the water away from the building.
My question is what do I use to greate the waterproof barrier. My thought was to use 3/4″ PT plywood and apply bitchathene (sp). I would install a “Z or S” channel of metal from ground level, up 6″ above where the ply meets the concrete block.
It has been suggested that I use “Densheild or Fiberock” or even cement board in place of the Ply. I am open to all suggestions. Thanks very much.
Edited 7/29/2005 11:27 am ET by drhugh
Replies
Greetings drhugh,
This post, in response to your question, will bump the thread through the 'recent discussion' listing again.
Perhaps it will catch someones attention that can help you with advice.
Cheers
I suppose regrading the yard so it drains away from the house is out of the question.
I would not use plywood below grade, even PT ply ... seems to be asking for trouble. Can you dig ouit the soil to expose the foundation, then apply a membrane waterproofing directly to the foundation? And while it's exposed, install a perimeter drain system to carry water to the low side of the property.
"When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it." T. Roosevelt