Waldman Engineering Consultants

03/03/2026

The most concerning moisture issues are often hidden. Elevated indoor humidity can create damp conditions in wall cavities, attics, and crawlspaces—areas that dry slowly. Watch for musty odors, staining, peeling paint, warped trim, or recurring mold. If symptoms persist, a professional evaluation can help identify the moisture driver and prevent small problems from turning into larger repairs.

02/26/2026

When should you call an expert? Persistent condensation, soft or darkened wood around windows, swelling/warping trim, peeling paint, musty smells, or mold that returns after cleaning can indicate moisture is persisting where it shouldn’t. Early diagnosis usually lowers repair scope and cost. Waldman Engineering can help evaluate conditions, identify likely moisture pathways, and recommend corrective steps.

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Waldman Engineering Consultants offers full-service engineering and consulting services - reserve studies, transition studies, structural and moisture evaluations

02/24/2026

Why condensation happens: warm indoor air holds moisture, and when it hits cold surfaces (windows, exterior corners, under-insulated walls), water v***r can condense. If condensation is frequent, it’s often a combination of humidity level + surface temperature. Improving ventilation, reducing indoor moisture sources, and addressing cold spots (insulation/air leaks) can reduce the risk of long-term material deterioration.

02/18/2026

We’ll be at the CAI-IL tradeshow this Friday, February 20 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. Waldman Engineering will be at Booth 546.

Has your association been impacted by the Fannie Mae “do not lend” list? Stop by our booth and we can share how we’ve been addressing these issues in other communities and what a clear path forward can look like.

See you Friday at Booth 546!

02/17/2026

Persistent window condensation in winter is a building performance signal—not just “cold weather.” If you’re wiping windows frequently, indoor humidity may be too high for the outdoor temperature and the home’s insulation/ventilation conditions. Over time, repeated condensation can damage trim, finishes, and concealed materials. Practical first steps: verify bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans vent outdoors, run them during and after moisture-producing activities, and track indoor relative humidity.

02/16/2026

It’s CAI-IL Tradeshow week. We’re looking forward to seeing board members, community managers, and industry partners—and talking about how we can support your communities in 2026.

One issue we've been seeing more and more lately: underground parking garages with active leaks and water intrusion. If your association is dealing with this, stop by and share what you’re seeing. We can talk through common causes, next steps, and how other communities are approaching repairs.

See you this Friday in Rosemont!

04/22/2025

Join Us for a Free Educational Seminar on Building Moisture Intrusion
Thursday, May 29, 2025 | 2:00–5:00 PM | Wintrust HQ, Rosemont, IL

Registrations are limited to the first 160 managers. Sign up for an afternoon of education, CAMICB and State of IL CAM credits included!

https://www.woodlandwindows.com/leaks-happen-event

10/17/2024

As winter approaches, it’s important to consider the effects of snow melt chemicals on building materials. Here are the 3 most common salts used to melt snow and prevent ice:

Sodium Chloride (Rock Salt)

Pros: It’s inexpensive, easy to source, and works effectively down to about 20°F (-6°C). It’s the go-to for many municipalities due to its cost efficiency.
Cons: Extremely corrosive to metal, concrete, and masonry, especially when used frequently. Over time, it weakens building materials, requiring more maintenance and repairs. It also harms surrounding plants and contaminates groundwater.

Calcium Chloride

Pros: Effective in much colder conditions, working down to -25°F (-32°C). Its fast action makes it ideal for areas that need quick de-icing, and it produces less harmful runoff than sodium chloride.
Cons: It is significantly more expensive than sodium chloride. Prolonged use can damage concrete by drawing moisture into the material, leading to freeze-thaw cycles and surface damage. It can also increase metal corrosion, though it’s somewhat less damaging than sodium chloride.

Magnesium Chloride

Pros: Less corrosive than sodium chloride and calcium chloride, magnesium chloride is considered safer for metal and concrete, making it a more sustainable choice for building preservation. It also works down to around -13°F (-25°C).
Cons: While it is less corrosive, magnesium chloride still causes long-term material degradation, albeit more slowly. It is more expensive and can attract moisture, potentially leading to some of the same freeze-thaw issues if used in large quantities.

Understanding the pros and cons of each snow melt can help building managers choose the best option to reduce corrosion risk and extend the life of building materials.

10/15/2024

The Effects of Snowmelt on Buildings and Building Materials Snowmelt can have significant effects on building materials, especially in cities like Chicago. Learn how freeze-thaw cycles and excess moisture can weaken structures, and discover strategies to protect your buildings from this seasonal challenge. Regular maintenance and using the right materials are key.

Chicago winters are notorious for their harsh conditions, with freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and frequent freeze-thaw cycles. As snow and ice accumulate on building surfaces, such as driveways, parking garages, roofs, and sidewalks, the snowmelt process introduces significant challenges for...

10/09/2024

Understanding Steel Corrosion: Causes, Signs, and Impacts Steel corrosion is a critical concern for building longevity. Understanding the causes—like moisture and environmental exposure—and recognizing the signs early can prevent costly repairs. Learn more about how to mitigate steel corrosion and safeguard your structures.

Corrosion in structural steel is a major concern for the safety and durability of buildings. This post delves into the causes of steel corrosion, how to identify it, and the effects it can have on structural elements. Causes of Steel Corrosion Steel reinforcement in concrete structures is susceptibl...

10/07/2024

Understanding Concrete Corrosion: Causes, Signs, and Impacts Concrete corrosion can lead to serious structural issues if not addressed early. Understanding its causes, such as chemical exposure and moisture infiltration, helps in maintaining the strength and durability of buildings. Explore methods to prevent and manage concrete corrosion.

Corrosion in concrete structures is a critical issue that can significantly impact the safety and longevity of buildings. This post explores the causes of concrete corrosion, its visible signs, and the potential impacts on structural integrity. Causes of Concrete Corrosion Concrete corrosion typical...