University of Houston MD Anderson Library
Persistent leaks into third-floor conference rooms, traced to a failed expansion joint and sealed with a multi-layer system.
The challenge
The MD Anderson Library is the heart of the University of Houston campus. Water was coming into third-floor conference rooms during rain events, risking valuable assets and disrupting use of the space. Structure was referred by a trusted contact at Rice University.
Finding the cause
A comprehensive inspection of the low-slope roof above the affected rooms pinpointed a critically deteriorated expansion joint where the original building meets a newer addition. Years of sun and Houston weather had cracked the caulking and sealants, and the adjacent stainless steel parapet cap was contributing.
- Surface preparation. Low-pressure wash, then removal of all old, cracked caulking from the joint.
- Adhesion. Mechanically etched the stainless steel parapet cap for a strong bond.
- Reinforced seal. Davlin Mastic with embedded polyester fabric over the joint.
- Multi-layer protection. Two more coats of mastic, Davlin Capseal and a Davlin 3800 topcoat, each fully cured.
The outcome
The failed expansion joint and parapet cap were completely sealed, the leaks stopped, and the conference rooms went back into full use.
Not sure what your roof needs?
Tell us what is going on. A member of our team will follow up during business hours and explain what the roof needs before you commit to major work.