Understand the main types of infiltrations, how to identify them in projects and what appropriate treatments are to prevent structural damage.
Submitted at Feb 2, 2026, 4:00 PM
(Freepik/Divulgação)
Infiltrations are among the most common—and most neglected—problems in buildings. Often, the first signs seem only aesthetic, such as stains on the wall or peeling paint, but they may indicate deeper flaws that compromise the structure, thermal comfort, the salubrity of the projects, and even the durability of the property. The constant presence of moisture creates ideal conditions for the proliferation of fungi, molds, and bacteria, directly affecting the health of the residents.
infiltração; danificado-textura-da-parede-branca (Freepik/Divulgação)
Understanding how infiltrations occur, their different types, and how to identify them early is essential to avoid greater losses. Additionally, each source requires a specific treatment—and applying the wrong solution may only mask the problem temporarily. Below, learn about the main types of infiltration, their characteristic signs, and the correct treatment methods.
Capillary infiltration occurs when soil moisture rises through the walls via the pores of materials, such as bricks, mortar, and concrete. It is very common in constructions that have not received adequate waterproofing in the foundations or footings. The main sign is the presence of damp spots and bubbles in the paint near the baseboard, usually accompanied by mold and peeling.
Infiltração por capilaridade (Fibersals/Divulgação)
The treatment requires interrupting the rise of moisture, which can be done through chemical barriers, injecting waterproofing products into the masonry, or creating a physical barrier. Just scraping and painting the wall does not solve the problem, as moisture will continue to rise.
This type of infiltration is common in slabs, roofs, balconies, wet areas, and planters. It occurs when the waterproofing was poorly executed, has deteriorated over time, or was never done. The signs appear on the ceiling of the project below the affected area, with dark stains, leaks, and mold.
Infiltração por falhas na impermeabilização. (Blok Impermeabilizantes/Divulgação)
The treatment involves removing the covering from the upper area, completely redoing the waterproofing system with membranes, liquid membranes, or polymeric mortars suitable for the location. Palliative solutions, such as superficial sealants, tend to fail quickly.
Cracks in facades, external walls, and retaining walls allow rainwater to enter, especially during periods of strong winds. Over time, the water penetrates the masonry and begins to manifest inside the property with stains and damaged paint.
Exemplo de trincas. (TM3 Incorporadora/Divulgação)
The correct treatment involves opening and sealing the cracks with flexible materials, such as acrylic or polyurethane sealants, and subsequently applying waterproofing coatings or elastomeric paints to the facade.
When there are leaks in embedded pipes, the infiltration arises from within. The signs include localized stains, a sudden increase in the water bill, constantly damp walls, and, in some cases, the sound of running water even with the valves closed.
Infiltração por vazamentos hidráulicos. (Moraes Soluções Hidráulicas/Divulgação)
The treatment requires accurately locating the leak with specific equipment, replacing the damaged section of the pipe, and repairing the affected masonry. Without eliminating the hydraulic source, any aesthetic intervention will be futile.
Unlike the others, infiltration due to condensation does not come from outside or leaks, but from the accumulation of water vapor in the projects. It is common in kitchens, bathrooms, and poorly ventilated bedrooms. The vapor condenses on cold surfaces, generating mold, mildew, and dark stains.
Infiltração por condensação (Fibersals/Divulgação)
The treatment involves improving natural ventilation, installing exhaust fans, using dehumidifiers, and in some cases, applying anti-mold paints. Here, the solution lies in changing the conditions of the projects, not in the wall structure.
Failures in the sealing of windows and doors allow rainwater to enter, especially in highly exposed facades. The problem usually appears on the sides of the frames, with vertical stains and deterioration of the plaster.
janela; infiltração; oxidação (Freepik/Divulgação)
The treatment involves resealing with appropriate sealants, reviewing the sills, and if necessary, correcting the slope for proper water drainage. Often, the issue lies in the inadequate installation of the frame.
Retaining walls and external walls in direct contact with the ground experience constant pressure from moisture. Without proper waterproofing, water penetrates through the structure and manifests on the internal side with persistent stains.
Infiltração em áreas externas e muros de arrimo. (Jornal Cruzeiro do Sul/Divulgação)
The treatment requires waterproofing the external side of the wall with asphalt membranes, membranes, or specific mortars for negative and positive pressure. Internal interventions rarely resolve the issue, as the source of the moisture remains active.
CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.
