| In some areas of the nation, March may, unfortunately, be too early for assessing the amount of damage sustained by the building envelope; but make the assessment procedure a MUST as soon as the weather moderates. If the roof is under a continuing maintenance warranty; or under an original installation warranty, call upon the roofer to make a comprehensive review of the roof's condition. Wind, torrential rains, heavy snows, ice and ice storms have all been elements in destructive conditions for the roof and building exterior.
It is almost mandatory in an economic downturn to "find the money" to make this assessment and to provide necessary repairs. Deferred maintenance is not an acceptable approach as delay will only lead to further deterioration and long-term challenges that could include replacing the entire roof and supporting framework. Remember, any action, changes or installations on the roof without involving the roofer providing the warranty, abrogates the warranty and you are "on your own." As simple an action as your maintenance staff "plugging" a leak or replacing or repairing a flashing without the roofer's involvement, violates the warranty. So, be sure the roofer is part of your assessment team.
Carefully inspect the building outer walls for any indication of penetration by wind and moisture. Following Ike's visit to Houston, we found that many structures did not have a moisture barrier on the inside of the outer wall. If one was fortunate, the moisture went that far, only, and did not involve penetration of the inner wall and into the room space. One successful tactic was to drill "breathing holes" above the baseboard to permit the walls to dry and to avoid a mold and mildew problem.
Be especially alert to discoloration (especially rust stains) around windows, window ledges and sills, balconies, outside stairs, door frames and entrances, flag poles and decorative features on the outer wall. Verify that water has not lodged behind marble or other building curtain sections, parapets, or over hanging units with loosening action through freezing and thawing during the winter season. Also, include:
Windscreens at entries.
Exterior window shading devices (awnings, overhangs, sunscreen.)
Caulking between building material joints.
Exterior door construction (insulation, storm doors, glazing, weather stripping.)
Air locks and door closures at exterior doors.
Window assembly construction (panes and airspace, glazing, frame material, caulking, weather stripping, operation.)
Include other inspection factors as appropriate for your building and climate.
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TIME FOR BUILDING ENVELOPE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT