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Unearthing Solutions
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EVENT DETAILS
Unearthing Solutions
A Completed Case Study of a Below-Grade Waterproofing Project at US Storage Centers
Designed by Morphosis Architects and Located in Los Angeles
Below-grade waterproofing systems are essential to long-term building enclosure performance, yet they remain a frequent source of distress, claims, and costly repairs. Achieving durable performance depends not only on selecting an appropriate system, but on early and continuous coordination among the owner, architect, enclosure consultant, manufacturer, and contractor—supported by clear detailing and rigorous construction-phase execution.
This panel presentation examines a completed case study of a below-grade waterproofing project at US Storage Centers in Los Angeles, where a collaborative, risk-informed process guided design development, detailing, and construction administration. The session illustrates how owner objectives, architectural constraints, subsurface conditions, and risk tolerance informed system selection and detailing decisions. Particular emphasis is placed on the architect’s role in coordinating enclosure requirements, integrating waterproofing into the overall building design, and facilitating collaboration among the project team.
The presentation also highlights the roles of the enclosure consultant, manufacturer, and waterproofing contractor in identifying constructibility risks, maintaining continuity of waterproofing and drainage at critical transitions, and supporting the architect through submittal review, RFIs, and field observations.
Panelists
Jud Taylor and Jeremy Arnold – SGH
Sal Hidalgo – Morphosis
Kyle Stimpson – AVM
James “Jimmy” Dent – Systems Waterproofing
Objectives
After attending this presentation, participants will be able to:
- Identify key factors influencing below-grade waterproofing system selection, including owner goals, subsurface conditions, architectural constraints, and risk tolerance.
- Recognize common design and construction challenges that affect below-grade waterproofing performance and explain how early coordination reduces the risk of failure.
- Apply best practices for detailing and reviewing below-grade waterproofing assemblies to maintain continuity at transitions, penetrations, and terminations.
- Understand the roles and responsibilities of architects, enclosure consultants, manufacturers, and contractors in delivering constructible, durable below-grade waterproofing systems.
