Thru-wall flashing helps move moisture away from your building. It is installed behind the exterior brick to help keep the interior of your building air and water tight. This added protection keeps your existing masonry looking crisp and durable.
Without flashing, moisture that gets behind the brick will continue to penetrate the walls and eventually lead to water and structural damage.
Thru-wall flashing is a relatively new technology. Old masonry structures were usually built with solid brick walls which reduced the risk of moisture infiltration.
Architects in recent decades have used light-weight steel studs and gypsum boards for wall structure. Then, they faced the exterior walls with a thin veneer of brick masonry. This leaves the structure vulnerable and in need of additional protection.
Thru-wall flashing
Brick removal
Thru-wall flashing starts with removing the facade, or the exterior layer of brick or stone. This is removed at least 3 courses high to get access to the interior of the wall structure. Once the brick is removed, then the installation can begin. It is essential that installation starts at the interior of the building.
Anytime you need to remove and replace bricks or stone, there is a good chance that the damage has come from moisture. This flashing will help protect the building facade and ensure moisture is moved away from the interior of the building. Installing flashing is most cost effective when you are already removing and replacing brick and stone.
Installation
The first step for installing thru-wall flashing is the installation of the membrane. This waterproof membrane helps seal the interior walls and directs moisture away from the building. We ensure that this membrane is properly secured to the building and water tight. This membrane directs the water towards the weeps.
Weeps
Weeps are pieces of rope that are installed in thru-wall flashing. They are installed directly above the waterproof membrane. The weeps will soak up moisture that the membrane collects and direct it towards the exterior of the building. Rope dangling from the side of a building may seem odd, but weeps are essential to thru-wall flashing installation and maintenance.
Waterproof moisture protection
Installing flashing is a complex process and it’s difficult to determine when it is necessary. Here are some signs that flashing is necessary:
- Cracked brick
- Cracked/crumbling mortar
- Efflorescence
- Interior water damage
- Shifting brick
- Missing mortar
- Window leaks
Do you think a preemptive approach to building maintenance is right for you? Fill out our form below to get your free estimate and see if thru-wall flashing can help protect your building.
