“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.
LeakyLarry asks: Why do engineers say water intrusion is the biggest problem?
Because water destroys buildings from the inside out. It rusts rebar, weakens concrete, rots wood, and breeds mold. The EPA estimates 80% of building problems are moisture-related. In Florida, heavy rains, high humidity, and salt air make it worse. Water intrusion is also the top cause of lawsuits between condo boards and contractors, since even small leaks cause major repair costs. Prevention through sealants, waterproofing membranes, and proper drainage is always cheaper than waiting until structural repairs are needed. In fact, studies show every $1 spent on prevention saves $4 in repair costs later. That’s why engineers call water intrusion the number one building killer.
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Authoritative references: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Moisture Control Guidance; International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI).
The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
