Routine Inspections, Maintenance
Keys to Building Envelope Longevity
All matter breaks down over time. The structures
that surround us today are no exception to that
law of physics. Some building materials are more
durable than others, like stone and steel, but
unfortunately the days of structures surviving
thousands of years, like the Egyptian pyramids
and Roman cathedrals, are over. Most of the
structures erected today have a life expectancy of
less than 100 years. Therefore, preventive
maintenance of building exteriors has become
more important than ever.
Structure facades can be made from any number
of materials including brick, terra cotta, granite,
marble, sandstone, limestone, brownstone,
concrete masonry units, glass curtain wall
systems, Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems
(EIFS) and precast concrete. Likewise, they can
all deteriorate for any number of reasons such as:
lack of maintenance/funding, movement, freeze/
16 | Masonry Design
thaw, air pollution, improper workmanship/design
and moisture penetration.
A masonry and facade restoration specialist can
identify problem issues such as cracking,
efflorescence, spalling, control joint failure, and
sealer or caulk failure and recommend a repair
and prevention plan that protects the property
and tenant spaces from leaks and water damage.
Proper facade maintenance will aid in reducing
the likelihood of unexpected costs and repairs,
plus help to maintain the property's value.
How extensive the program needs to be will
depend directly on the size of the building,
number of different materials and components,
geographic location and personnel available to
keep it maintained.