Case 1

Introduction

Type of Building: Public residential flat

Water penetration is due to infiltration of water through pores or voids in the facade, usually at jointing and cracks, arising from hydraulic pressure, air pressure, vapour pressure or a combination of these parameters. Water penetration and dampness in brick wall may result in damage to interior finishes and furniture. Moisture in the wall may also cause corrosion of ferrous anchors. Bricks exposed to moisture may experience minor expansion (about 0.04%), the presence of particles of lime or gypsum in the clay can cause still higher moisture expansion that is enough to destroy walls. Reactions between the fired clay and alkali solutions from the mortar or other sources may also result in large expansions.