“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

TechieTom asks: Do those infrared cameras really find hidden leaks?

Yes, but indirectly. Infrared cameras detect temperature differences, not water itself. When moisture evaporates, it cools the surface, creating a thermal signature. Studies by ASTM show infrared scans can detect moisture with 80–90% accuracy when combined with proper testing. Engineers often use them in Florida condos to find hidden leaks behind stucco, roofs, and walls without tearing them open. However, IR scans must be confirmed with other tools like moisture meters to avoid false readings. Used correctly, they’re powerful diagnostic tools that save owners money and disruption.

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Authoritative references: ASTM C1153 – Infrared Thermography for Moisture Detection; Building Science Corporation studies.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

PolicyPete asks: How have tariffs on steel and aluminum affected Florida construction?

The 2018 tariffs on imported steel (25%) and aluminum (10%) increased costs significantly. The Associated General Contractors of America reported steel prices rose over 30% in the year following the tariffs. In South Florida, where much steel and aluminum are imported, contractors saw project budgets climb sharply. While prices have since fluctuated, supply chain shifts mean costs remain volatile. This shows how global policy decisions directly impact local construction budgets — even condo repairs and small projects.

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Authoritative references: Associated General Contractors of America market reports; U.S. Department of Commerce – tariff announcements.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

CondoConcerned asks: What causes the most lawsuits between condo owners and boards?

The number one cause is water intrusion — leaks from roofs, windows, or poorly waterproofed decks. The Community Associations Institute reports that over 70% of construction defect claims involve water-related issues. In Florida, heavy rains, hurricanes, and salty air accelerate these problems, and repairs are often delayed due to cost. The result? Disputes, lawsuits, and special assessments. That’s why associations are urged to invest in preventative waterproofing rather than waiting for expensive litigation. In the end, water is the root cause of most condo conflicts.

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Authoritative references: Community Associations Institute legal reports; Florida condo law case studies; EPA moisture control guidance.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

MetalMaven asks: I thought stainless steel and aluminum don’t rust — is that true?

Not exactly. Stainless steel resists rust thanks to its chromium content, but in salty air like Florida’s coast, it can suffer from pitting and stress corrosion cracking. Aluminum doesn’t form red rust like iron but instead corrodes through surface pitting. NACE studies show aluminum in marine environments can corrode at 0.1 to 0.3 mm per year. Stainless fares better but still needs maintenance. So while both metals are more resistant than plain steel, they’re not immune to Florida’s salt air — which is why marine-grade alloys and coatings are critical near the ocean.

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Authoritative references: The Aluminum Association; NACE/AMPP corrosion studies; ASTM stainless steel corrosion data.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

CrackDetective asks: How can I tell if a crack is just plaster or something structural?

Great question. Plaster cracks are usually thin and surface-level, caused by drying or small shifts. They’re often harmless. Structural cracks are deeper, wider, and sometimes show rust stains or displacement. The American Concrete Institute recommends evaluating cracks wider than 0.012 inches (0.3 mm), especially in exposed concrete. In South Florida, small cracks can worsen fast because salt and water intrusion accelerate corrosion inside. Warning signs include stair-step patterns in masonry, widening cracks, or cracks that let water through. When in doubt, have a licensed engineer inspect. A quick checkup can prevent costly structural damage down the road.

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Authoritative references: ACI 224R – Control of Cracking in Concrete Structures; Florida Building Code coastal exposure provisions.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

SafetySam asks: Why do engineers check fireproofing on steel beams?

Because steel, while strong, loses strength quickly in fire. At about 1,100°F, steel loses more than 50% of its strength, and at 1,800°F it can fail completely. Fireproofing — whether spray-on material, intumescent paint, or encasement — buys time during a fire, keeping beams intact long enough for evacuation and firefighting. Engineers inspect fireproofing to ensure thickness, adhesion, and coverage meet code. If fireproofing is damaged or missing, the steel is vulnerable. In high-rises and condos, inspections confirm that one hidden but critical safety layer is in place.

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Authoritative references: NFPA 5000; Underwriters Laboratories (UL) fire resistance standards.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

MetalMike asks: Does aluminum rust like steel?

Aluminum doesn’t rust the way steel does because it has no iron. Instead, it forms a thin oxide layer that protects it from further damage. However, in salty, humid environments like Florida, aluminum is prone to pitting corrosion — small holes that grow deeper over time. The Aluminum Association reports that marine environments can cause 0.1 to 0.3 millimeters of aluminum loss per year if not properly protected. That may not sound like much, but over decades it weakens railings, window frames, and balcony enclosures. That’s why marine-grade alloys or protective coatings are recommended for coastal use. So while aluminum won’t rust red like steel, it’s not immune to Florida’s environment.

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Authoritative references: The Aluminum Association; NACE/AMPP corrosion studies.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

CoolAirCarl asks: Do rooftop AC units cause leaks in buildings?

Yes — they’re a common source of roof problems. Rooftop units sit on curbs, and the flashing around them often cracks or pulls away. Drain lines clog, and water ponds, leading to leaks. The National Roofing Contractors Association estimates that over 35% of commercial roof leaks are linked to rooftop equipment. In South Florida, heavy rains and hurricanes make the problem worse. Regular inspection of curbs, seals, and drains prevents damage, but neglect can lead to major interior flooding and structural deterioration. It’s not the AC itself — it’s the weak points around it that need constant attention.

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Authoritative references: National Roofing Contractors Association; ASHRAE HVAC standards.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

CondoOwner88 asks: Are shutters just as good as impact glass?

Both shutters and impact windows are code-approved, but they work differently. Shutters need to be installed before a storm, which can be a problem if owners are away. Impact glass, on the other hand, provides constant protection. It’s designed like a car windshield, holding together even if cracked. Research from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety showed homes with impact glass had up to 60% less hurricane damage compared to shutter-only homes. Impact glass also improves energy efficiency and often qualifies owners for insurance discounts. Shutters still work well, but glass offers the convenience and peace of mind of 24/7 protection.

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Authoritative references: Florida Building Code HVHZ; Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS).

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

RoadRageRay asks: Is it true one big truck does more road damage than a thousand cars?

Yes, and the math proves it. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials found pavement damage increases by the fourth power of axle weight. That means a fully loaded 80,000-pound truck can cause as much damage as about 9,600 passenger cars. That’s why truck weight is strictly regulated, and weigh stations monitor loads. In Florida, overloaded trucks are a major contributor to potholes and road wear, especially on highways leading to ports. So yes — one truck can literally equal thousands of cars in terms of road damage.

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Authoritative references: AASHTO Pavement Design Guide; Federal Highway Administration axle load studies.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.