
The word facade originates from the Italian word “facciata.” This means the outside or all of the external faces of a building. In architecture, this term defines the main or front of a house.
The purpose of the facade is to protect the occupants from rain, wind, humidity, and temperature extremities. But for the facade to do its job correctly, it must be appropriately designed, built, and maintained.
However, time and exposure to the elements can inevitably deteriorate the condition of the facade. Depreciation of the facade can result in various concerns, including decreased building performance and potential hazards. This is why a commercial building inspection NJ is necessary to check that the building’s facade and overall quality of a house remain intact.
Catching the facade issues early on can help building owners and managers solve them with standard repairs. However, undetected defects can lead to costly capital rehabilitation projects or potentially dangerous circumstances.
Hence, one must seek help from a professional like an NJ structural engineer. They are capable of detecting signs of a deteriorating facade. One of the most common indicators of a depreciating facade is cracks.
Although there are certain cases when these cracks are normal and not a cause for concern, some building fractures might occur due to a significant problem. A structural engineer knows whether or not a crack is a sign of a major issue.
Window leaks may be caused by external gaskets losing their ability to seal frames and glass. This can also indicate that the design or construction was done improperly.
Knowing when to upgrade the facade is valuable information that can save a building owner from costly renovations and other expenses. This infographic from Lockatong Engineering tackles more details about the façade inspections and improvements.