Beacon News

Beacon Consulting Group is often hired by leading insurance companies, building owners, developers, and law firms to investigate the root cause(s) of water intrusion and the resulting damage in buildings, private homes, and other types of structures. After years of assessing issues related to roofs, siding, windows, and other components of a building’s "envelope," Beacon has identified 10 common issues that frequently lead to water intrusion. This article highlights these issues, explains how Beacon approaches construction defect investigations, and discusses the common reasons for water infiltration problems.

Understanding the root cause of water damage in structures is essential for determining responsibility. Fault may lie with the general contractor, subcontractors, defective materials, or post-construction damage caused by external forces, aging/degrading materials, or insufficient maintenance. Beacon’s construction defect investigations help clients pinpoint liability and develop effective remediation strategies to correct the root cause and prevent future failures.

10 Common Building Envelope Issues Leading to Water Intrusion

1. Improper Window Installation - Windows are one of the most common points of failure in a building envelope. Poorly installed or defective window systems can allow water to seep into the structure, leading to mold growth, wood rot, and interior damage.
   
2. Roofing Defects and Installation Errors - A compromised roof is a primary source of water intrusion. Poor flashing installation, improper sealing around penetrations, and subpar workmanship can all contribute to leaks, especially in high-wind or heavy-rain conditions.
   
3. Inadequate Waterproofing of Exterior Walls - Many buildings suffer from insufficient or improperly installed weather-resistant barriers, leading to moisture infiltration behind siding or stucco. Over time, this can degrade structural components and insulation.
   
4. Faulty Flashing Systems - Flashing is crucial for directing water away from vulnerable areas like windows, doors, and roof intersections. When flashing is missing, incorrectly installed, or deteriorated, it can cause leaks and significant water damage.
   
5. Compromised Sealants and Caulking - Sealants around windows, doors, and expansion joints deteriorate over time due to weathering. If not properly maintained or installed, gaps can develop, allowing water to infiltrate the structure.
   
6. Defective or Missing Vapor Barriers - Vapor barriers help prevent moisture from migrating into the building envelope. When they are missing, damaged, or incorrectly installed, condensation can build up inside walls, leading to mold and rot.
   
7. Clogged or Poorly Designed Drainage Systems - Gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems must efficiently move water away from the building. Clogged or improperly sloped drainage systems can cause water to pool, increasing the risk of leaks and foundation issues.
   
8. Penetrations and Openings in the Building Envelope - HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical conduits, and other penetrations through the exterior walls and roof must be properly sealed. Poor workmanship or deterioration of these seals can create water entry points.
   
9. Structural Movement and Settlement Cracks - Over time, buildings experience natural settlement and shifting. If movement leads to cracks in walls or foundations, water can infiltrate, exacerbating structural damage.
   
10. Post-Construction Damage - External damage, such as fallen trees, severe storms, or vandalism, can compromise the integrity of the building envelope. If repairs are not promptly and properly executed, water intrusion can become a serious issue.

Beacon’s Approach to Construction Defects Investigations

Beacon Consulting Group employs a systematic approach to construction defects assessments. When investigating a building envelope issue, Beacon’s team:

• Conducts on-site inspections to evaluate and analyze visible signs of water intrusion.
  
• Reviews construction documents, contracts, and installation records to identify potential construction deficiencies.
  
• Engages specialized consultants when necessary, including thermal imaging experts, forensic engineers, window and roof specialists, and waterproofing experts. Such experts use tools such as moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint hidden leaks and identify the main water intrusion locations.
  
• Analyzes repair costs and estimates projected repair costs where necessary.
  
• Manages or monitors the resolution process on behalf of our clients.
  
• Provides detailed reports and expert testimony to support insurance claims, litigation, or remediation planning.

Conclusion. Water intrusion due to building envelope defects can result in costly repairs, insurance claims, and legal disputes. By identifying the 10 most common causes and utilizing advanced investigative techniques, Beacon Consulting Group provides clients with the insights needed to address existing issues and prevent future occurrences. Whether working with insurance companies, legal teams, or property owners, Beacon remains a trusted partner in construction defect assessments and resolution strategies.

About The Authors

John Yeung is Vice President of Beacon Consulting Group, Inc. For the past 10+ years, John has managed the company's New York City office. John has more than 32 years of industry experience and is an expert in the areas of construction consulting, project management, and construction defects analysis.

John has managed construction consulting assignments across a broad range of industry sectors including education, municipal, transit, residential, commercial, financial, and healthcare. His extensive construction knowledge, analytical background, and expert communication skills enable him to perform a variety of roles, from project executive to on-site project manager. John takes a leadership role, acting as the primary point of contact for a broad range of clients including leading surety companies, financial institutions, developers, project owners, insurance companies, and construction firms. John's ability to act as liaison between owners, principals, and contractors has been instrumental to his success in resolving project conflicts and developing cost-effective, well-planned solutions for troubled projects.

John earned a BS in Environmental Engineering, and an Associates in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State University. John also studied Construction Management at New York University and completed NYU's Advanced Certificate in Construction Management program. Since joining Beacon nearly 20 years ago, John has consulted on and managed an extensive portfolio of projects.

Myat Cyn is a Project Manager and Surety Consultant at Beacon Consulting Group, Inc. Myat has more than six years of progressive experience as a construction consultant. Since joining Beacon's team in early 2018 as a Project Engineer working in our New York City office, Myat has worked on a wide variety of construction consulting assignments and has played a lead role in helping to manage many projects.

Myat is a graduate of New York Institute of Technology where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Prior to joining Beacon, Myat's background included time working in the construction field assisting with project management, MEP inspections, expediting, and ARCS fire alarm systems. At Beacon, Myat's attention to detail, diligence, and analytical skills make her an invaluable team member.