Need Help with My Concrete Block Wall

[SantaClaritaNovice]

I have a building constructed with concrete blocks. Both inside and outside have been painted more than once. With the wet weather we have had the last two years, water is coming through the wall and causing the inside of the blocks to pulverize and I there are signs of efflorescence on the inside of the building. I'm stumped as to how to protect the walls. All the products that provide water protection require being applied to non-painted blocks. I'm afraid if I sandblast I may lose a substantial amount of block. Any suggestions will be much appreciated!

 

[geneg]

I have a building constructed with concrete blocks. Both inside and outside have been painted more than once. With the wet weather we have had the last two years, water is coming through the wall and causing the inside of the blocks to pulverize and I there are signs of efflorescence on the inside of the building. I'm stumped as to how to protect the walls. All the products that provide water protection require being applied to non-painted blocks. I'm afraid if I sandblast I may lose a substantial amount of block. Any suggestions will be much appreciated!

Hat channel & metal wall panels on the exterior.

Have the block cores foamed. Will reduce, but not eleminate the issue.

Some believe in synthetic stucco (Dryvit, Sto, etc) for the exterior. If using it- you'll need a rainscreen behind it to allow moisture to drain.

I don't think paints or sealants are solutions once water has started travelling thru.

 

[acer66]

Or use a rubber membrane as an “underground umbrella”.

 

[Jim greengo]

How much of it is below grade?

 

[egdede]

^^^ If none, how does your roof meet the top of the block? Do you have a torch down low sloped roof? If metal cap is the only way to go. Water can intrude from the top of the block from entry points that can be hard to see.