In 2011, Bob Tober, while at his previous employer, was retained to perform an assessment and corrective work related to the waterproofing system on Level M2 and Level M1, of the G Building shopping mall areas at Oakbrook Center. The original waterproofing system consisted of a loose-laid PVC system that made leak location identification nearly impossible. The architectural topping was a cast-in-place, exposed aggregate concrete that exhibited extensive freeze-thaw deterioration due to poor drainage slopes. The complete 30,000 SF common area plaza between stores was restored with new waterproofing, planters, expansion joint seals, and a pedestal paver system to improve drainage characteristics. All work was performed while keeping stores and storefronts open at all times.

WGI has provided ongoing engineering services into 2020 including assessments and follow-up repairs for Brookfield Properties at the Oakbrook Center.

Project Highlights:

• New hot-applied waterproofing and pedestal pavers across the entire G-Building plaza.
• Improved drainage performance and plumbing to protect post-tensioned concrete slab below.
• Replace original planters. Provide access system to planter drains for future maintenance and cleaning.
• Vertical and overhead concrete repairs.
• New expansion joint seal systems.
• Electronic leak detection system including wiring left in place for future monitoring.
• Annual survey inspecting condition of plaza and parking garage.