Waterproofing Failures Are Common — And Usually Hidden Until It's Too Late

More INSTALLATION FAILS – Waterproofing failures happen constantly—especially in high-end construction—and most aren’t discovered until finishes are installed and water shows up. These failures often stem from improper application conditions, incompatible materials, or simply rushing to cover up work before it's truly ready.

There are dozens of liquid-applied waterproofing products on the market, all with different requirements. Some require primers. Others don’t bond well to dusty or damp surfaces. But they all require proper substrate prep, dry conditions, and careful attention to compatibility with other materials.

That’s a serious challenge in rainy, humid climates like Florida. Applying product to a damp wall—or skipping prep entirely—is a recipe for failure. Once it’s covered up, the issue becomes almost impossible to identify until it causes damage.

Most crews aren’t trained in the nuances of each product, and general oversight is minimal. That’s how even premium builds can end up with water intrusion behind the finishes.