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Top Ten Signs Your Building Requires Waterproofing and Restoration

Posted on July 16, 2024 by anthony@the-robinson-agency.com

Some areas of Northern Florida recently experienced over two feet of rainfall in less than a week, causing devastating damage and flooding. If your building has ever faced a water intrusion problem, you know it’s a critical concern that must be repaired immediately. Rapidly identifying and addressing water-related issues while consistently performing proactive measures will reduce repair and restoration expenses while minimizing operational disruptions. This article identifies the top ten signs your building needs waterproofing or restoration services, how to address them, and how to prevent them.

1. Visible cracks in the Façade and Foundation

Cracks in a building’s façade or foundation are often the first signs of underlying structural issues. They can vary in size from hairline fissures to more significant gaps.

Where to look for cracks in the façade and foundation? Inspect the exterior walls, around windows and doors, and the foundation. Pay particular attention to areas where different materials meet, as these are common weak points.

How do you address cracks in the façade and foundation? Small, superficial cracks can often be repaired with sealant or patching compounds. Larger or deeper cracks may require professional evaluation and repair, potentially involving structural reinforcement.

How can cracks in the façade and foundation be prevented? Ensure proper drainage around the foundation to prevent water accumulation, which can cause the ground to shift and create cracks. Additionally, waterproofing the building envelope and addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from becoming significant problems.

Read more about why concrete cracks and spalls.

2. Water Stains on Walls and Ceilings

Discoloration on walls and ceilings is a telltale sign of water infiltration. A darker dry stain signifies a slow but long-standing leak. Stains damp to the touch tell you the intrusion is active and could intensify.

Where to look for water stains? Roofs and ceilings are the first place to look, as they are the leading cause of commercial water damage. Regularly inspect windows, façades, basements, and around equipment prone to leaks or corrosion, such as HVAC, boilers, and other equipment.

How do you address water stains on walls and ceilings? Identifying and stopping the leak is the top priority when you spot water stains. Once complete, you can address any cosmetic needs, mold remediation, or structural repairs.

How can water stains on walls and ceilings be prevented? Identify the most vulnerable areas for water intrusion and introduce proactive measures. For areas prone to heavy rain, waterproofing the roof and timely replacement of sealants are effective preventative measures.

3. Peeling or Blistering Paint

Introducing moisture will cause paint to blister, bubble, and eventually peel away. Wallpaper, although less common now, will also peel away when moisture breaks down its adhesive.

Where to look for peeling and blistering? Corners and ceilings are the most common places. Understanding your building’s makeup and history can also help identify vulnerable areas and speed up repair efforts.

How do you address peeling and blistering? After successfully stopping the water intrusion, it’s time for restoration. The level of repair depends on the severity of the water damage. The goal should be to return the impacted area to like-new conditions.

How can peeling and blistering be prevented? It comes down to taking preventative measures against water intrusion. Maximizing exterior maintenance can minimize repair costs.

Read more information about minimizing repair costs through exterior maintenance.

4. Efflorescence

Efflorescence is a powdery substance found on masonry walls. According to the Masonry Institute, efflorescence can only appear when salt is present in the wall, sufficient moisture is present, and a path for the salts to travel to the surface is available.

Where will you find efflorescence? When the salts reach the exterior and moisture is released, crystals appear on the masonry’s exterior. Although the crystals are typically white, they can also be brown, green, or yellow.

How do you address efflorescence? Since efflorescence requires all three factors (salt, moisture, and a path), you have to remove one from the scenario. In this case, we stop the water intrusion and remove the efflorescence through pressure washing.

How can efflorescence be prevented? Applying water repellent protects your building’s masonry from water intrusion and helps reduce the effects of efflorescence.

5. Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew growth pose health risks and indicate underlying water problems. Regular inspections can help detect and address mold issues early, ensuring a safe and healthy environment.

Where to look for mold and mildew? Mold and mildew need moisture to appear. Therefore, anywhere moisture is present, such as basements, is a potential concern for mold and mildew growth.

How do you address mold and mildew? The scope of the damage dictates the remediation plan. First, like in most cases, you need to stop the moisture or the mold and mildew will return. Because mold presents health risks, you need to consider Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and the safety of building occupants.

How can mold and mildew be prevented? Your best line of defense is to keep moisture and water out of the equation. Frequently inspecting areas where mold and mildew grow, using moisture detectors, and waterproofing your exterior will help reduce the likelihood of mold and mildew growth.

Read more about proactive waterproofing strategies.

6. Spalling Concrete

Spalling, the flaking or chipping of concrete or masonry, affects a building’s aesthetics and, when left untreated, can compromise its structural stability.

Where to look for spalling concrete? Structures like parking garages and stadiums, where concrete stands unprotected against the elements, are prime spots to find spalling concrete. This issue is especially true for states with frequent freezing and thawing cycles.

How do you address spalling concrete? You’ll need to remove and replace the damaged concrete, but first, you have to figure out the root cause of the spalling. Next, you need to factor in the severity of the damage. Spalling is a sign of an underlying issue within the concrete that can signal rust and corrosion of rebar, thus weakening your structure.

How can you protect concrete from spalling? If the cause is environmental, you can apply sealers and waterproofing membranes to slow the spalling down; if not, stop it altogether.

Read more about how to approach minor exterior building repairs.

7. Rust and Corrosion

When you see rust, it’s a sign that water has breached the façade, contacting metal and causing it to corrode. Rust weakens the bond between the concrete and the rebar, triggering additional concrete and structural damage.

Where should you look for rust and corrosion? You may spot rusting streaking down brick lintels or cracked or spalling concrete. If you spot spalling, there’s a good chance the rebar reinforcing the concrete is corroding as well.
How do you address rust and corrosion? Signs of rust could require extensive restoration, structural reinforcement, or maybe just minor concrete repair or sealant replacement.

How can rust and corrosion be prevented? Applying coatings or using corrosion inhibitors to rebar are both effective treatments in slowing the effects of corrosion. However, a more practical approach is keeping water out by applying waterproofing membranes and sealant to all high-risk areas.

For more information on façade safety repairs.

8. Pooling Water

This one seems obvious, but sometimes, people address the symptoms rather than the problem. Maybe you have a leaking skylight that only creates a pool when it rains, so we place a bucket underneath and mop it up until next time. As we’ve learned, water finds its way, so it begins to permeate behind walls and cause problems that someone cannot remove by mopping away.

Where to look for pooling water? Under sprinkler heads, skylights, and around equipment such as boilers and water heaters.

How do you address pooling water? A mop is only part of the equation. You can often remedy skylight leaks by reapplying sealant. Other leaks may require rapid leak investigation to identify the point of origin.

How can pooling water be prevented? Develop a proactive plan that involves routine inspections, replacing and reapplying sealants, and waterproofing membranes according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Read more about rapid commercial leak repair.

9. Failed Joint Sealants

If not addressed promptly, failed joint sealants can lead to significant water intrusion and structural damage. Sealants are critical for preventing water from seeping through gaps and joints in the building envelope.

Where to look for failed joint sealants? Inspect areas where different building materials meet, such as around windows, doors, expansion joints, and between panels. Look for signs of deterioration, like cracking, punctures, shrinking, hardening, discoloration, or separation from the substrate.

How do you address failed joint sealants? Remove the old, deteriorated sealant before applying a new, high-quality sealant. Clean and dry the surfaces thoroughly to ensure a proper bond. Consulting a professional may be necessary to select the appropriate sealant for your building’s specific needs.

How can joint sealants be prevented from failing? Regularly inspect and maintain joint sealants as part of your building’s maintenance plan. Use high-quality, UV-resistant sealants and follow manufacturer guidelines for application and curing. Proactively replace aging sealants to prevent water intrusion and extend the life of your building’s envelope.

Read more about selecting and applying joint sealants.

10. Humidity, Condensation, and Musty Odors

When water invades, it’s not just your eyes that detect the signs. If you encounter musty odors or notice higher humidity levels in your building that don’t align with the weather or internal climate, there’s a good chance you have a water intrusion problem. These subtle indicators often point to hidden leaks or moisture accumulation, signaling the need for immediate investigation and repair.

Where will you find humidity, condensation, and musty odors? You’ll often see these signs in basements and areas that lack poor ventilation.

How do you address humidity, condensation, and musty odors? These signs indicate insufficient waterproofing and can lead to mold growth and poor air quality. Conduct an immediate inspection to rectify the source of these conditions.

How can you prevent high humidity, condensation, and musty odors in commercial buildings? Your best bet is to create an environment where the air flows and the water doesn’t. Keeping the water out for basements may require below-grade waterproofing or soil grouting.

Read more about preventing below-grade water infiltration.

You Know the Signs, Now You Know Who to Call

Recognizing and addressing the signs of water infiltration and structural issues is crucial for maintaining your building’s integrity and value. We encourage you to take our Building Façade Assessment Tool, which will help you identify the signs explained in this article.

Regular inspections and proactive maintenance can save significant repair costs and prevent operational disruptions. Partnering with experts ensures rapid identification of these issues and quick resolution.

For comprehensive waterproofing and restoration services, trust A1’s expertise. Contact us today to protect your investment.

Water Infiltration: Testing, Repairs, and Prevention

Posted on June 25, 2024 by anthony@the-robinson-agency.com

Water is so essential for life but can also be one of the greatest threats to the integrity of our built environments. Its pervasive nature allows it to seep into the smallest cracks and imperfections. When water infiltration occurs, it can exert tremendous pressure, especially when the water freezes or when it leads to soil movement beneath foundations. Testing, repairing, and preventing water intrusion is critical to your building’s longevity. It’s one of those problems that will only get worse over time. This article aims to help you understand water infiltration and how to address it.

What Happens When Water Infiltrates the Building Envelope?

Water flows without feeling or malice as it respectfully follows the laws of gravity. Your building envelope acts against water to divert it elsewhere and prevent water infiltration. When the envelope or its components fail, and water infiltrates the building envelope, several things can happen, none of which are good for your building.

Water molecules are sticky, which means they can carry dirt, pollutants, and other contaminants into your building, exacerbating the damage.
Water dissolves other molecules, further breaking down building materials and facilitating mold growth.
Water expands and contracts, causing cracks and further damage as temperatures fluctuate.

Common entry points for water infiltration are roofs and ceilings, anywhere there are cracks, such as the facade, foundation, or basement, and where sealant fails around entry points or windows.

Water isn’t taking a nap behind the scenes. It’s tirelessly breaking down building components, making more room for more water until it’s directed otherwise. Ignoring signs of water infiltration will eventually lead to structure damage and health risks.

Effective Strategies for Water Infiltration Management

The two most effective strategies to address water infiltration are being proactive in keeping water out and responding rapidly when you can’t. Waterproofing and replacing sealants according to manufacturer standards are proactive. Conversely, regular maintenance checks of the building envelope, including roofs, windows, and walls, can catch any potential issues early, allowing you to take action.

Testing at Signs of Water Infiltration

While the signs of water infiltration are often obvious, the root causes may not be. Testing ensures you get to the source of the problem. At ProXpress, we accurately pinpoint the leak’s origin to make the necessary repairs. The last thing you want to do is cover up the leak without fixing it properly.

For instance, our technicians perform destructive testing to provide definitive proof that the sealant joints are the entry point for water into the building. We employ water testing to recreate the leak scenario, determining with certainty which hole is causing which leak. This method also helps rule out areas that are not contributing to the problem.

Addressing Water Infiltration

The first stage of repairing damage from water intrusion involves stopping and fixing the cause of the leak. Once this is complete, it’s time to assess the damage and work on restoring your building to its original condition. Depending on the severity of the water damage, you may need to take emergency action to mediate mold or address structural issues with the facade.

If you catch the problem early enough, your building may only need minor facade repair or sealant replacement. After the work is complete, we conduct a post-job follow-up complete with documentation photographs and retest the area.

Staying Ahead of Water Infiltration

If you weren’t taking a proactive approach to preventing water intrusion, it’s not too late. We help you identify waterproofing solutions and can create a maintenance plan to avoid common pitfalls. Our level of proactive planning is a core service you will find with ProXpress that you won’t find elsewhere.

ProXpress: Your Ultimate Strategy for Water Infiltration

ProXpress is your one-stop shop for water infiltration testing, repair, and prevention. You don’t have to rely on other service providers to handle different stages, a common cause of project delays.

When water breaks through your building’s defenses, the rapid response team from ProXpress is there when you need them the most. With a comprehensive approach and professionalism, the team ensures they address the immediate concern and provide you with a path forward to protect your building. This includes identifying other potential building concerns such as safety and compliance risks, facade access, or other wear and tear.

Protect Your Building From Water Infiltration with ProXpress

A proactive approach to water infiltration is your best defense, but sometimes, even the most formidable lines of defense aren’t enough. That’s why it pays to have a reliable partner capable of addressing the problem quickly and efficiently.

If you suspect you may have a water intrusion problem, contact the ProXpress team. Our team of experts will not only address the problem but also provide you with the tools and support you need to proactively protect your building.

How SafeSite Eases Compliance Oversight for Building Owners

Posted on June 12, 2024 by anthony@the-robinson-agency.com

Want to reduce your compliance workload while improving your building’s safety? Our SafeSite program simplifies OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) safety compliance for buildings, specifically for façade access and fall protection equipment. As a SafeSite Program member, you’ll benefit from expertise, testing and certification, inspections, risk mitigation, and training.

Our comprehensive approach to compliance oversight reduces the stress of staying current with evolving compliance regulations and removes the administrative burden. With fines and inspections increasing each year, compliance isn’t something worth leaving to chance. This article explains how the SafeSite program offers the easiest path to meeting compliance standards.

Navigating Through Building Compliance Complexity

With compliance regulations and safety audits, there’s always that concern, “Did we miss something?”. For instance, can you provide supporting documentation of annual anchor inspections and employee safety training? The consequences of noncompliance are steep, with one contractor receiving over $1 million in fines for repeatedly exposing workers to fall hazards.

Our team of experts is deeply entrenched in building compliance regulations and industry standards, so you don’t have to be. As a SafeSite customer, we help you develop a path to achieve compliance and keep you compliant. Our consultative approach leverages proactive communications, building reviews, and training. We know compliance can be a burden and can easily consume a big chunk of your time. Our SafeSite program provides you the opportunity to forego this burden and devote your time where it’s needed most.

Your Safety Compliance Ally

A1 is your compliance ally, helping you navigate regulations. The primary focus of our SafeSite services includes anchor inspections, certifications, and testing to meet OSHA’s varying compliance cadence. When we perform these services, we also address non-compliant areas and make a plan with the client so that they can become compliant.

We do this through our Five Pillars:

Dedicated Team of Compliance Experts – Our team solidifies its expertise in the field, completing over 1,500 rooftop anchor inspections each year. Our team is available where and when you need them, and we are there to focus on all your compliance requirements.
Commitment to Safety & Compliance Standards – Our window cleaners, for instance, rely on the same fall protection equipment we help design, install, and certify. This isn’t a responsibility we take lightly. Our commitment to safety shines in our ability to not only meet industry standards but exceed them.
Exterior Building Maintenance Expertise – A1’s building services teams frequently work at heights, performing not only window cleaning services but also façade repair and restoration, waterproofing, and rapid leak investigation. This expertise is invaluable to training, learning, and reducing the risks of fall-related incidents.
Professional Engineer Partnerships – Just as we count on you to trust us and our expertise, we rely on third-party engineers to help design, certify, and inspect our rooftop anchor systems. In addition to receiving your final certification report, you’ll receive the added assurance of meeting compliance regulations.
Annual Anchor Inspections – OSHA requires annual inspections by a qualified person. After our team completes your required inspection, we provide a fall protection assessment and a comprehensive report. This confirms that you meet the inspection requirement and gives you an action plan to maintain compliance.

We believe in eliminating risk first and foremost, and when that isn’t possible, we provide the next best line of defense through fall protection systems. Our turnkey approach to safety decreases your liabilities, reduces the stress of the unknown, and gives you back the precious resource of time.

Tailored Plans for Tailored Needs

We know not all buildings and budgets are the same. During our building review, we pinpoint any shortfalls in documentation and record-keeping. From there, we dive into compliance requirements and budgetary considerations to identify the best path to bring your rooftop safety into full compliance. You can count on our SafeSite team to tend to your building’s compliance services, including inspections and certifications of anchors.

We get to know your building, which aids in identifying unique risks. Armed with this knowledge, we ensure our third-party engineer identifies and inspects various types of anchor points for integrity and feasibility with your building’s structure. Increasing safety, ensuring compliance, and decreasing liabilities isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. For this reason, we designed our SafeSite program to be comprehensive and flexible, providing you with a one-stop shop for safety compliance.

Key Benefits of Joining SafeSite

For good reason, OSHA will continue to focus heavily on inspections, fines, and awareness campaigns to reduce safety incidents. With SafeSite, you gain a dedicated team of compliance experts, consultation resources, compliance and safety reports, and more. Here are more ways we ease compliance oversight.

Streamlined Compliance Documentation

Documentation plays a critical role in meeting requirements. Our SafeSite Portal keeps you organized with easy access to compliance documents, inspections, testing reports, certifications, and compliance proposals. In addition, the portal helps you stay informed with our education tools, compliance manual, and other resources.

Proactive Risk Management

A proactive approach is the best way to mitigate risk in an environment of rapidly evolving regulations. We take pride in our industry expertise and leverage this knowledge to keep our customers informed through updates and their journey toward meeting compliance regulations. Staying ahead of regulations helps minimize potential legal and safety risks.

Optimizing Time and Resources

As a building owner, you have a lot on your plate. Attempting to manage compliance oversight on your own could result in you stepping over dollars to save a dime. We offer a strategy to optimize your time and resources while assuring your building achieves compliance standards.

Simplified Compliance Oversite with SafeSite

You don’t need to wonder if your building meets compliance requirements. With SafeSite, we take a consultative approach to informing our clients about rooftop safety. The program reduces your compliance risk by covering annual anchor inspection requirements as well as testing and certification. Our combination of industry knowledge backed with hands-on expertise helps spot safety risks and provide fall hazard analyses to deliver you the easiest path to achieving and maintaining building compliance.

To take the first step towards confidence in compliance, you can review your rooftop safety with our Fall Hazard Assessment. Contact us today and see the difference we can make in your building compliance strategy.