312 Cumberland Street
Client
Ottawa Community Housing (OCH)
Consultant
Sense Engineering
Project Type
GroupCMG was hired to address water infiltration and moisture-related damage at 312 Cumberland Street, which was impacting the interior of two second-floor units located beneath the third-floor balconies. The project required a coordinated approach that combined balcony restoration, building envelope repairs, and interior renovations to deliver a comprehensive and lasting fix.
Balcony restoration work included localized concrete repairs, installation of new guardrail retrofit anchors, and application of a new Extreme Wear System (EWS) pedestrian traffic topping. New perimeter flashings and sealants were also installed to reinforce moisture protection at critical transition points.
The building envelope scope involved the selective demolition of the surrounding masonry wall assemblies to expose deteriorated components. Repairs included replacing and reinstating brick ties, wall barriers, reinforcing, sheathing, insulation, sealants, and masonry units. Within the two affected units, the renovations included a complete replacement of the ceiling assembly.
Project Challenges
This project demanded a high level of precision due to the complexity of moisture management across multiple assemblies. Interior renovations required continuity of barriers and seals to avoid worsening existing issues.
The third-floor balcony EWS system effectively became the primary waterproofing layer for the occupied spaces below. Unknown conditions within the wall cavity added uncertainty to the extent of the repairs needed. The work was also completed during winter, requiring careful product selection.
Solutions Implemented
Our detail-driven approach managed project risk and delivered lasting results:
Precision Installation & Quality Control
- Executed consultant design details with special attention to continuity, sealing, and integration of all moisture control layers.
- Ensured vapour barriers, insulation, framing, and sealants were flawlessly installed to protect interior spaces.
Material Selection & Manufacturer Oversight
- Selected repair systems suited for durability and seasonal conditions.
- Coordinated manufacturer site visits to confirm surface preparation and application procedures met the required standards.
Selective Demolition & Repair Strategy
- Used progressive demolition to limit removals to only the deteriorated components, preserving sound assemblies where possible.
- Confirmed repair extents collaboratively as new conditions were revealed.
Cold Weather Protection Measures
- Implemented temporary weather protection and closely monitored forecasts
- Selected weather-appropriate products to ensure proper performance.
Results
Our work delivered a comprehensive, long-term solution to the building’s moisture and leakage issues. Balcony restoration and envelope repairs significantly improved weather resistance and structural reliability. The new waterproofing and traffic topping system reduces future maintenance risk, while interior upgrades enhance thermal performance, moisture control, and occupant comfort. These improvements work collaboratively together, providing a more resilient, energy-efficient, and well-protected building envelope.
“It’s been a pleasure working with you all on this project!”
— Coordinator, Sense Engineering
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