By Dennis Ahrenhoersterbaeumer
The Western Group
Masonry buildings often exhibit skin-deep problems. Their facades are simply not as invincible as one might presume for the massive, highly dense building material. Structural problems afflict masonry buildings of almost every height. The earliest high rises lacked the advanced engineering principles and materials necessary to withstand movement, moisture deep in their skins, and the effects of airborne pollutants. They are also of an age when structural penalties are now being paid for decades of deferred or poor maintenance practices.
Physical failures take the form of cracks, loose masonry units, flaking, or efflorescence and spalling whenever a building’s original design, construction, or subsequent maintenance failed to withstand the test of extended environmental and physical exposure. Most types of masonry buildings can suffer from these forms of exterior deteriorations. When more serious forms are present the owner should (1) commission a structural analysis; (2) objectively assess the building’s past maintenance schedule; and (3) negotiate the required restoration with a qualified specialty contractor.
Besides physical restoration, many buildings should undergo thorough cleaning to enhance their appearance and remove the source of any potentially corrosive agent. Any cleaning attempt, of course must be performed in a way that will not compromise the structural integrity of existing walls. Advanced testing is always essential to ensure the cure doesn’t cause more problems than the original malady. Sometimes, a protective penetrating, breathable sealer is applied to repel moisture and harmful pollutant accumulations.
When restored properly, a masonry building can provide many years of future use. A comprehensive inspection and maintenance program designed to prevent recurrence can further ensure this. Masonry, indeed, offers many advantages over other materials; but it is never “maintenance-free.”
