Case Study: Waterproofing and Structural Repairs on a 70-Year-Old Face Brick High-Rise

Location: Durban North, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Project: Exterior waterproofing, structural crack repair, and mortar restoration

Overview:

A high-rise building in Durban North, approximately 70 years old, was experiencing extensive moisture ingress due to aged and porous mortar, as well as structural movement-related cracks caused by thermal expansion and contraction. The deteriorating face brick exterior led to persistent dampness inside the building, affecting its integrity and long-term durability.

Problem Diagnosis:

  • Cracks in the face brick walls: Movement-related cracks developed over time due to natural thermal expansion and contraction cycles.
  • Porous mortar joints: The mortar between the bricks had degraded, allowing water to penetrate the structure.
  • Widespread dampness: The building suffered from internal moisture issues caused by water seeping through the face brick surface.

Solution Implementation:

Target Roofing & Waterproofing proposed and executed a three-step restoration and waterproofing plan:

1. High-Pressure Cleaning

  • The entire building was thoroughly cleaned using high-pressure washing techniques.
  • This process removed accumulated dirt, organic growth, and deteriorated surface material, ensuring optimal adhesion for subsequent treatments.

2. Structural and Mortar Repairs

  • Cracks caused by structural movement were repaired using a flexible joint sealer to accommodate future expansion and contraction without compromising integrity.
  • Mortar joints were restored and reinforced to eliminate porous gaps, strengthening the overall wall structure.

3. Application of Face Brick Water Repellent

  • A high-performance, penetrating water repellent was applied across all face brick and mortar surfaces.
  • This treatment significantly reduced water absorption while maintaining the natural appearance of the brickwork.
  • The repellent allowed for breathability, preventing trapped moisture while ensuring long-term waterproofing protection.

Outcome:

  • Elimination of moisture ingress: The waterproofing solution successfully prevented further damp issues inside the building.
  • Enhanced structural durability: The repaired mortar and flexible sealant ensured resilience against future movement and environmental conditions.
  • Aesthetic restoration: The cleaning and repellent application revived the building’s original brickwork, enhancing its appearance while providing lasting protection.
  • Long-term cost savings: By addressing the root causes of water penetration, the need for ongoing maintenance and future interior repairs was minimized.