Exterior Building Restoration

Exterior Building Restoration – Tuckpointing, EIFS and Stucco Repair, Façade Restoration, Brick Repair and Installation

A building’s exterior will provide architectural character and protect the building from the elements. The typical exterior wall components should theoretically last 20 years. Unfortunately, due to material product failures and installation defects, many building façades require renovations much sooner. Common signs of such defects are: leakage, stains, glass breakage, or cracks in stone panels. The renovation phase may involve glass replacement, sealant replacement, stone/precast/brick repairs, or in the most extensive of measures, a total recladding of the structure. When exterior wall components are not properly maintained, the repair cost can be exceptionally greater than the expected maintenance budget. EDS’ service approach can help you avoid those elevated costs.

Our team of experts has over 20 years of experience in the areas of:

Façade Restoration

Although we are quick to blame “old age” for façade instability, the reality is that age alone is rarely the cause of façade problems. Rather, façade instability is caused by a combination of factors. These factors include: poor design, improper installation, corrosion from moisture, excessive water penetration into the cavity between façade and the backup, freeze/thaw damage, and poor exterior wall maintenance.  The need for façade restoration is not just an aesthetic issue, it is also a matter of safety. The loss of support or weakening of anchoring systems can result in falling debris, a hazard to property and in the worst of cases, to pedestrians.
There are 3 methods of repair to consider:

• Removal and replacement of the entire façade
• Partial removal and re-anchoring of selected façade sections
• Re-anchoring of the façade with mechanical anchoring systems

Our team of professionals and skilled craftsmen will customize a solution for your restoration project utilizing state-of-the-art technology and materials.

Brick Repair

Brick exteriors are associated with strength, beauty and superior quality, all accurate characteristics of this popular building exterior. However, this type of exterior is also susceptible to deterioration and repairs or restoration may be needed at some point.

Brick exteriors have two primary components, the brick and the mortar. To describe the mortar as an important component is an understatement.  If a mortar joint fails, it can allow excess moisture into the wall and may create a spalling situation. In addition to protecting the wall from excess moisture, the mortar also binds the bricks together.  These components combine to support the wall.

Tuckpointing is the process of repairing a mortar joint. Deteriorated mortar is removed from the points of a masonry wall and replaced with new mortar. Cleaning or pressure washing of the brick exterior, as well as applying a sturdy caulking compound, can help to counteract additional brick issues.  Selecting the proper techniques and materials is paramount in keeping the visual and structural aspects of a building intact and minimizing future deterioration of the masonry.
Indicators of mortar joint failure:

• Mortar has eroded to expose the brick behind the glazed face
• Mortar has crumbled from the joint
• Hairline cracks have appeared in the mortar
• The bond between the mortar and the glazed brick is broken

EIFS and Stucco Repair

EIFS stands for Exterior Insulation and Finishing Systems. Also known as synthetic stucco, North American builders began using EIFS in the 1980’s. It is now one of the most widely used systems in new construction and retrofit projects. Water penetration is one of the greatest deteriorating factors of EIFS, as it is with many wall cladding systems. A proper system of moisture evacuation and prevention is critical during design and installation. In addition, awareness of preventative maintenance and protective measures will help add service life to your structure.
Signs of EIFS Problems:

• Mold or mildew on the interior or exterior of the building
• Swollen wood around door and window frames
• Blistered or peeling paint
• Cracked EIFS or cracked sealant