Are your building facades looking their best?
Your building’s facade isn’t only there to look pretty. It’s the first line of defense against nature. Heat, weather, and light can take their toll over time, leaving your facade in need of repair. But it isn’t always easy to notice the signs.
We are here to help. Read on for 5 warning signs your building needs facade restoration services ASAP!
1. Cracking
One of the most noticeable signs you need facade repair is a cracked facade. That means it’s trying to expand and it can’t, or it’s under too much stress.
Some materials like stucco and concrete can get shrinkage cracking. This can look like the cracks in dried mud and aren’t anything to worry about. Worrying signs will include:
- wide cracks
- vertical cracks running up masonry columns
- cracks near the corners of the building
If you spot any of these types of cracking it’s best to call in a professional engineer. Then call in building facade restoration service like City Suburb, Inc.
2. Leaks Around Windows
Windows, while they are an essential feature of our homes, can lead to leaking. Water can leak through the windows themselves, or from the edge where they meet the facade.
The most common cause is when the factory seal around the windows degrades. Or the external gaskets fail and can’t seal between the frame and glass anymore.
With internal leaks, you want to check for the source of the leak first before restoring the facade. Otherwise, you won’t fix the problem and could end up spending more money down the line.
3. Corrosion Damage
If you’ve left any metal object out in the rain then you’ll know how quickly rust can set in. For building facades, it’s a bit more complicated.
The steel usually hides beneath the surface for reinforcement in concrete buildings. For stone, brick, and terra cotta-clad buildings it’s in anchors and ties.
If those steel parts rust, they will expand and the force of this causes cracking. Any surrounding concrete or materials can weaken and dislodge.
You could see entire sections of your facade coming loose and falling away. If you see any signs of rusty water trails or exposed steel rusted over, act right away.
4. Temperature Change Displacement
When the temperature changes, all building materials expand and contract. This is natural and not anything to worry about on its own. If you notice obvious displacement of materials though, this indicates an issue.
If left this can cause serious structural damage. Check your cladding for areas that curl up or don’t align with the rest anymore. If you find any, it’s time for building facade repair.
5. Material Degradation
Nothing lasts forever, even your building materials. Over time, there is a natural need for maintenance. Look for cracked or hard sealant joints.
Blistering or peeling paint is also a sign it’s time for facade restoration services. As is any shrinkage to your window gaskets, or erosion in the mortar joints. Take care with window sills and ledges that can let water pool against the facade.
Facade Restoration: Do It Right
So, there you have it! Now you know these signs you need facade restoration, you know what to look for.
Many of the issues that can affect the facade of a building can be serious if ignored. While your facade is the first line of defense, it can also hide issues. Make sure that you include regular checks to look for any changes to your facade. If you’re unsure of anything, call a professional facade restoration company to discuss your concerns.
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