Overview
Paul Gaston investigates water intrusion, condensation and moisture conditions for attorneys, insurers and property owners in Chicago, Cook County and Chicagoland. He traces the moisture to its source and evaluates whether installation workmanship or envelope detailing caused it, using visual and forensic inspection, moisture readings, and comparison to manufacturer instructions and accepted practice.
Related: Chicago Water Intrusion Expert · ExpertWitnessChicago.com
Water finds the weakest detail. Establishing the entry point and whether the detailing was executed as required is what separates a workmanship claim from ordinary wear or a design question.
Envelope and installation review
Flashing, sealant joints, window and door installation, roof terminations, transitions and penetrations are examined for whether they were installed as the details and instructions required.
- Flashing, weather barrier and sealant joint installation
- Window, door and penetration detailing at the envelope
- Roof terminations, transitions and drainage conditions
Condensation and interior moisture
Not all moisture enters from outside. Condensation from envelope and ventilation conditions produces damage that looks like a leak. Paul's background includes building envelope work and HVAC balancing to prevent condensation, which allows the two to be separated on the evidence.
- Moisture mapping and readings
- Entry-point identification
- Envelope detail inspection
- Condensation condition assessment
- Findings and repair scope
Mold as a supporting matter
Where visible mold is present, Paul can identify it and its moisture source as supporting work. Health effects and medical causation are outside his scope entirely.