Waterproofing
Waterproofing isn’t just a final layer, it’s integral to the building’s structure. From below-grade foundations to the top of the roof, a well-designed waterproof enclosure keeps water where it belongs: outside.
At CANY, manage waterproofing throughout a building’s lifespan, from new construction, where we help design and coordinate systems from the ground up, to restoration projects where we diagnose leaks and make buildings watertight again.
Whether it’s foundation walls, façades, roofing, or windows, our teams design, select, and oversee waterproofing systems built to last. And when issues arise, we investigate, identify the cause, and put them right.
Who is this waterproofing service for?
Building owners
Architects
Developers
Contractors needing expert review or system design
Lawyers (in respect of peer reviews and investigations)
Protect your building from the ground up. Whether you’re designing new construction, diagnosing a leak, or upgrading aging systems, CANY delivers clear, reliable waterproofing solutions built for long-term performance. Talk to CANY and get the right answers, the first time.
Why Waterproofing Matters
A watertight building is essential, but waterproofing isn’t just about keeping the rain out. It’s managing water intelligently, both within and around the building enclosure. Done properly, waterproofing protects finishes, preserves structures, and supports the buildings long-term performance.
At CANY, we support waterproofing decisions at every stage:
For new construction, we assist architects, developers, and contractors with system design, material selection, compatibility reviews, and detailing to suit the building’s function, climate, and context.
For existing buildings, we investigate issues like leaks, trapped moisture, or system failures, identifying the cause, and recommending efficient, durable solutions, whether that’s a small repair or a system replacement.
Not every issue requires major work. Sometimes, it’s a minor fix, other times, it points to a more complex problem. That’s why proper investigation and system design matter. Getting the right information upfront saves time, money, and future disruptions.
Common Challenges We Solve
Waterproofing isn’t one-size-fits all. Every building has its own conditions and priorities, whether you’re starting from scratch or solving an existing issue. Some of the challenges we help clients navigate include:
Designing foundation, façade, roof, and window systems that manage water effectively in new construction
Investigating and resolving leaks through foundations, façades, roofs, and windows
Diagnosing situations where water enters in one place but appears somewhere else
Identifying and addressing incorrectly installed or incompatible waterproofing systems
Upgrading aging systems while preserving building character and function
Balancing watertightness with the need for materials and assemblies to breathe
Some challenges are obvious, others more subtle. Either way, we trace the issue to the source and recommend realistic solutions that suit the building and the project scope.
Key considerations:
Every waterproofing project involves critical decisions, from materials to system layout to maintenance planning. With nearly 30 years of experience, CANY knows how to build systems that work, and work together.
What we consider:
Selecting waterproofing systems appropriate to the building’s design, location and performance requirements
Balancing watertightness with breathability to avoid trapping moisture inside the building envelope
Ensuring compatibility between different systems, manufacturers, and adjacent materials
Designing details that respect the character and construction of both contemporary and historic enclosures
Making sure designs meet code, warranty, and long-term performance standards
Providing clear, practical guidance on maintenance, inspection and durability
Good waterproofing design prevents problems. And when problems do arise, our methodical approach resolves them efficiently, without jumping to costly assumptions.
CANY’s Involvement
Whether you’re designing a new enclosure or tackling an unexpected leak, our waterproofing process follows a proven, clear workflow:
Step 1 - Site visit & Initial Assessment: We meet with you, gather background, information, review design documents or evaluate existing conditions.
Step 2 - New construction: We review documents and advise on system selection, compatibility, and detailing. Existing buildings: We investigate leaks and perform testing if needed. Using non-destructive methods, we pinpoint sources, confirm whether it’s a waterproofing issue or something else (like plumbing), and determine the best response. Testing may include:
Controlled Water Testing
Thermal Imaging
Non-Destructive Moisture Meters
Tracer Dyes
Endoscopic Cameras
Step 3 - Reporting & Recommendations: We compile our findings into a clear, practical report outlining issues, solutions, and cost considerations, whether for a new system design, targeted repair, or long-term strategy.
Step 4 -Design & Material Selection: We create tailored designs for new construction or repairs, selecting materials that work together, meet code and warranty standards, and perform reliably,
Step 5 - Contractor Coordination and Oversight: We assist with contractor selection, submittal reviews, permits, and onsite quality control to make sure designs are installed correctly.
Step 6 - Final Testing & Sign-Off: Once work is complete, we test again to confirm performance and finalize documentation.
A Note on Investigations:
Not every investigation leads to a major repair. Sometimes it’s a small fix, an isolated oversight, or an issue unrelated to the building enclosure. Our job is to identify the cause, explain it clearly, and help you choose the right, proportional response.
Key Benefits
Why Choose CANY for Waterproofing?
· Nearly 30 years of real-world waterproofing experience
· Specialists in both new construction and restoration
Custom system designs for compatibility durability and long-term performance
Clear reliable investigation – identifying issues and confirming whether it’s enclosure related
Code-compliant, warranty-ready designs for both new builds and repairs
Independent, professional oversight throughout the project
Proven track record of resolving issues first time, with a measured, evidence-based approach
FAQ
Can you tell exactly where a leak is coming from?
Often, yes. Water is unpredictable, it may enter in one place and appear elsewhere. That’s why combine controlled testing, imaging, and other tools to track it accurately.
Can you help with waterproofing design for new buildings?
Yes, we regularly advise architects, developers, and contractors on waterproofing design, material selection, and compatibility reviews for new construction.
How long does the waterproofing process take?
It depends on the size and complexity of the issue. A small repair might take a week; investigations or system installations can take several months.
Do you only handle waterproofing, or the entire building envelope?
Both. We design and oversee full enclosure systems, but we’re just as experienced working on standalone waterproofing projects. stepping in for standalone waterproofing projects.
