9 TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR BUILDING WATERTIGHT
Water , Water Everywhere … But Not a Drop in Your Sacred Space ! by Suzanna Barucco
Principal , sbk + partners
Of all the natural forces that can deteriorate your sacred space — wind , sun , and water in the form of rain , snow , and ice — water has the potential to cause the most damage . Nearly every part of a building ’ s exterior was designed to keep water out . But suppose the “ building envelope ” is not maintained ? In that case , water may attack exterior elements
( masonry , wood , painted finishes ) or seep into the building , silently wreaking havoc over time on ceilings , walls , interior finishes , and structural supports such as roof rafters . This damage can sometimes take years to become visible from the inside , and by the time you can see it , you may have an expensive renovation on your hands . What follows are some proactive ways to keep your building water-tight .
Photographs courtesy of sbk + partners
SACRED PLACES • SUMMER 2021 13