Signs of Facade Problems

Most contractors build homes with the highest level of quality and detail in mind. Still, defects can happen and can cause a lot of problems to a home.

Defects are common to facades in Florida. A facade refers to the exterior part of a building, often the front, that is designed for aesthetic appeal. In essence, it’s the “face” of a building.

Frequent rainfall and high humidity are common in many parts of Florida, often leading to unexpected facade leaks and other defects for homeowners. These defects can be a serious construction defect and should be addressed promptly.

While repairs can be costly, they are essential to prevent further structural damage. Left unresolved, facade leaks can compromise the integrity of the home and lead to costly construction defects. Here are some signs of facade defects to look for.

Cracks
Cracks often indicate a shift in the building’s structure. Minor hairline cracks in materials like drywall, stucco, or concrete are common and usually harmless. Cracks wider than a pencil indicate something more serious, as do cracks near building corners. A qualified engineer can determine whether cracks are normal shrinkage or signs of deeper structural problems.

Displacement
All building materials expand and contract with temperature changes, and many also shift with humidity or moisture. Significant misalignment between materials often means there’s a lack of proper control joints. Left unaddressed, this displacement can cause severe damage and even create safety hazards. Regularly inspecting cracks and alignment can help prevent costly repairs.

Leaks
Windows are a common source of facade leaks, which can occur either through the frame itself or the surrounding structure. Leaks through the frame can result from worn seals or failed gaskets, while perimeter leaks are often due to poor design or construction of the joint between the window and facade. Identifying the exact cause is essential before beginning repairs, as guessing can waste both time and resources.

Material Deterioration
Most facade materials require upkeep to maintain performance. Warning signs include hardened or cracked sealant joints, shrunken gaskets, deteriorating mortar, and peeling paint. Water-collecting spots, such as sills, ledges, and wall tops, are especially vulnerable, leading to swelling and further cracking if ignored.

Corrosion
Steel hidden inside facades can corrode over time, expanding and cracking the surrounding masonry or concrete. This may cause sagging or even pieces falling off the building. Early red flags include rust stains or cracks in areas likely to contain steel fasteners, such as around windows, steel columns, or reinforcement grids in concrete. Detecting and repairing corrosion early reduces the scope and cost of restoration.

Contact Us Today

Facade problems can cause a lot of visual problems as well as structural damage.

Customers do not want construction projects riddled with problems. If you are facing issues from disgruntled customers, get the help you need from a Florida defective construction claim lawyer from Linkhorst Law Firm. We have the knowledge to handle your construction-related legal concerns. Schedule a consultation today by calling 561-626-8880 or filling out the online form.

Source:

girouxglass.com/top-five-tell-tale-signs-of-facade-problems-and-how-to-avoid-them/