EIFS – water entry and deterioration of parapet

These types of leaks are more common in homes built around the mid 1990s to the mid/late 2000s, particularly those with a monolithic cladding and parapets, waterproof decks, no eaves and complex designs. Engaging a registered building surveyor with experience in leaky homes is strongly recommended where a leak is suspected. DIY repairs and repairs by non-specialist builders often do not solve the problem and may result in further problems. See our Weathertight guide for more details.

Causes

Hairline cracking in monolithic (plaster) cladding

Inadequate or no flashing to top of parapet wall

Reliance on plaster finish to provide waterproofing

Cause

Hairline cracking in monolithic (plaster) cladding

Repair

  • engage a registered building surveyor to report on the building. Any subsequent repair work if required should be fully documented and carried out by a contractor with experience in this type of work. A building consent will be required

  • where there is no consequential damage identified by the building surveyor as a result of the cracking, the existing cracks should be sealed and the walls recoated

Cause

Inadequate or no flashing to top of parapet wall

Repair

  • engage a registered building surveyor to report on the building. Any subsequent repair work if required should be fully documented and carried out by a contractor with experience in this type of work. A building consent will be required

  • where there is no consequential damage identified by the building surveyor as a result of the flashing failure, the wall performance may be reinstated by the installing of new flashings

     

Cause

Reliance on plaster finish to provide waterproofing

Repair

  • engage a registered building surveyor to report on the building. Any subsequent repair work if required should be fully documented and carried out by a contractor with experience in this type of work. A building consent will be required

  • where there is no consequential damage identified by the building surveyor as a result of the coating failure, the wall performance may be reinstated by the application of a coating system to the plaster