Integrated Digital Approach to Façade Durability: A Multi-Layer Waterproofing Strategy with BIM and Lifecycle Cost Optimization
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Water infiltration and crack propagation constitute the most persistent and economically significant defects in contemporary building construction, affecting approximately 70% of façade systems globally. Traditional single-layer paint systems fail to address the fundamental material vulnerabilities of cementitious plasters, which inherently undergo dimensional changes through shrinkage-driven mechanisms and thermal cycling. This research presents a comprehensive, three-layer defensive architecture combining Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) latex-based bonding, elastomeric acrylic polymer mortar systems, and organ silane nano-silicate surface treatments to systematically address water penetration, shrinkage-induced cracking, and long-term material degradation. The proposed system is validated through Building Information Modeling (BIM) coordination for three-dimensional visualization and clash detection and analyzed via lifecycle cost assessment using D4COST software for economic feasibility. Experimental validation demonstrates crack-bridging capacity improvements of 15-20 times, water absorption reductions of 60-70%, and service life extension from 3-5 years to 10-15 years. Lifecycle cost analysis over 50-year assessment periods indicates cost reductions of 35-40% compared to conventional approaches when accounting for maintenance cycles, remedial repairs, and operational disruptions. The integration of materials science innovation, digital construction coordination, and systematic quality assurance establishes a replicable methodology applicable across building typologies in tropical monsoon climates.
Authors: Sukrithan S., Dr. Kumar A., Pradheeba P.
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7124909423
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