Building Pathology L2 Cumberland Vocational

Question 1

Explain how you investigated this defect (pooling water near fire exit door).

Answer 1

• I looked for visual indications of the source of the water, such as stains or streaks that may help identify where the water had travelled.
• I looked for possible nearby sources of water, such as pipes, drains and services
• I looked for and considered signs or sources of condensation such as pipework, metal surfaces, high RH etc
  I inspected the door, door reveal and cladding internally and externally looking for evidence of water tracking, stains or marks as well as the cladding and door detail.

Question 2

Explain how you diagnosed the defective flashing to be the cause of the defect.

Answer 2

The flashing was installed such that water was running behind the flashing and forced out behind the cladding.

The location of the water running down the inside of the cladding tied in with damp and water stains on the plaster on the inside near the door and in proximity to where the water had appeared on the floor.

Question 3

What investigation did you undertake to confirm this diagnosis?

Answer 3

I returned when the drip flashing had been installed following several days of rain to confirm the solution had been successful and therefore, diagnosis correct.

Question 4

What options for repair did you offer the client?

Answer 4

I advised the client to remove the flashing, address the poor finish (cut) on the cladding and install a drip flashing.