Stopping Persistent Balcony Leaks Over Occupied Commercial Space

The challenge

Abacoa Condominium Association was dealing with persistent water intrusion from multiple balconies built directly over active commercial spaces. The existing waterproofing had failed outright. Water was reaching the tenant spaces below, and the damage was visible in the framed-in ceilings and stucco soffits.

The problem was not only functional. Deteriorated surfaces over occupied commercial space carry aesthetic and liability exposure for the association, and that exposure grows every season the repair is deferred.

What we did

Our team implemented a comprehensive restoration plan built on the Gaco/ER waterproofing system by Amrize:

• Full demolition of the existing balcony surfaces down to substrate, a coating over a failed system only buys time.
• Structural repair and reconstruction of ceiling framing, DensGlass sheathing, and the stucco finishes below.
• Installation of the GacoFlex/ER liquid-applied waterproofing membrane, which cures seamless with no laps or seams to fail.
• Application of Sherwin-Williams Spray Deck for a durable, slip-resistant, and visually finished walking surface.

All work was completed with minimal disruption to the commercial tenants and maintained compliance with building codes governing waterproofing over occupied space, a requirement that shapes both the system selection and the sequencing.

The result

• Leaks were completely eliminated, restoring the integrity of the commercial spaces below.
• The seamless membrane provides long-term protection with a low-maintenance surface.
• Balcony aesthetics and underfoot safety improved substantially with the Spray Deck finish.
• Both residents and commercial tenants gave positive feedback on the completed work.

Why this one is worth reading

Waterproofing over occupied commercial space is the hardest version of this job. The building cannot stop operating, the code requirements are stricter, and a partial repair leaves the association owning the next leak. Going to substrate and rebuilding the assembly is more work up front, and it is the only approach that ends the problem instead of postponing it.