The façade is vital in protecting and securing the building’s structural integrity. It also provides natural ventilation, resists corrosion, and controls extreme temperatures. Property owners should aim for quality building façade construction to maximize its benefits.
A well-designed and maintained building façadealso protects the property from water leakage, energy loss, and air infiltration. However, time and external exposure can deteriorate façade components. Façade decline can result in structural issues such as compromised functionality and potential safety risks.
Façade inspection helps property owners develop maintenance and repair strategies, create restoration projects, and mitigate legal liabilities. It is essential to identify issues as early as possible to prevent high repair costs in the future.
The initial process of façade assessment includes researching the building’s history, whereby a building inspection engineer NJ studies the property’s nature and façade. Once complete, an on-site exterior assessment is doneto determine the façade’s relative condition.
Potential investors observe and consider the façade’s condition and maintenance before acquiring a property. If they notice peeling paint or wearing components, it can make them feel it is not taken care of. Therefore, it will be challenging to convince them to buy the property.
Façade inspection determines defective components that need immediate repair. When these are properly addressed, building owners can increase the property’s worth. They can request a better rent or selling price from the potential buyers, making their property a worthwhile investment.
In 2021, Jersey City, New Jersey passed an ordinance relating to façade and property condition assessment. It provides that a registered architect or engineer should conduct a façade inspection at least once every five years. The tragic event of the Champlain Towers collapse prompted the Jersey City Council to enact this directive and promote public safety.
The directive mandates that properties over six stories tall should undergo a commercial building inspection NJ. Exterior walls and attachments are also subject to evaluation under the Jersey City Construction Code Official. Building owners must provide a Façade Inspection Report to the Division of the Construction Code Official within 30 days after the assessment.
To learn more, here is an infographic from Lockatong Engineering.
