CAI-NJ Feb 2022

FAÇADE LEAKS... from page 24.

“Snow and ice can cause freeze and thaw conditions, which could damage exterior materials such as brick, concrete, stucco or EIFS.”

Poorly maintained properties tend to perform worse than well maintained properties. Repair costs will be higher and also energy bills due to drafts and inefficient air flow. Additionally, areas of the building can be impact- ed differently by the weather. Certain sides of the building receive more sun- light, other areas are impacted more by snow, rain and wind depending on storm conditions. Where do the leaks most commonly occur? Leaks are typically found around win- dows, roof lines, at floor levels and areas of the building where there is a change in materials or a change in direction. Usually, the cause is either improper construction, inadequate details related to water management, or movement of the structure.

will be faced with facade repairs eventually. Here are a few insights about what you can expect when it comes to repairing and maintaining

the facade of your building. What façade issues are communities commonly faced with?

Concrete, stone and masonry facades including brick, EIFS, or stuc- co are some of the most common materials used on the exterior of buildings. Over time, these materials experience deterioration and failure, which result in issues such as water infiltration, drafts, and water damage leading to dissatisfied residents and a building that is not energy efficient.

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What impact does weather/ storms have on your building façade? Rain, wind, snow, UV rays, ice, and varying temperatures all have an impact on your building façade. Rain, especially wind-driven, can find its way into gaps, voids, cracks, or other building system failures, causing leaks and damaging portions of the building such as the interior sheetrock or carpet. Snow and ice can cause freeze and thaw conditions, which could damage exterior materials such as brick, concrete, stucco or EIFS. UV rays from the sun will, over time, begin to degrade some of the exterior caulk, coatings or other materials which will eventually require replacement. Temperature changes throughout the seasons will cause the buildings com- ponents to expand and contract, and as some of the materials wear out, leaks and failures could occur. How often should I have my facade inspected? An inspection should be performed annually, typically in the Spring. This can be performed by the community CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 28

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