Proactive Building Maintenance Guide: Saving Time and Money

proactive building maintenance guide

Proactive Building Maintenance Guide: Saving Time and Money

In the realm of property management, the adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” holds true. Proactive building maintenance is not just about fixing problems when you are required to do a Building Inspection or as they arise; it’s about preventing your building from having to do major repairs in the first place. By adopting a proactive approach to maintaining your structure, building owners and managers can save both time and money while ensuring the longevity and efficiency of their properties. As Building Inspectors and Building restoration experts we have seen major differences when building owners frequently maintain their buildings. 

Get a Quote

Reduced Repair Costs Associated with Building maintenance

One of the most significant benefits of proactive maintenance is the reduction in repair costs. By addressing minor cracks and concrete spalling issues before they develop into major problems, building owners can avoid expensive repairs and replacements.

Due to the proximity of the ocean, South Florida buildings are subject to the harsh corrosive “salt-air molecules” wreaking havoc on concrete pillars, columns, balconies, staircases, and more. For example, a building might have a small crack on the exterior of the building. That small crack can cause a slight bit of salt to penetrate inside and reach the rebar which is what keeps the concrete structure stable. This causes the concrete surrounding the rebar to rust which in turn pushes the concrete outward and causes it to spall. Furthermore, you do not need a crack for the salt air to enter. Concrete is inherently porous, and a surface without a proper coat of paint is left unprotected. We wrote an entire article about Concrete Spalling if you are interested.

If caught early, the surrounding concrete can be chipped away and the rust can be removed. Once all of the rust is removed we apply a rust-proof coating that further protects it from getting rusted again. After that, the concrete is applied over it as well as a finishing coat. That is the end of that problem and the repair will last for a very long time.

This also helps you save money when your building is up for its 25-year building safety inspection. If you have kept up with the repairs and fixed any spalling or cracks then you will not need to rush to get everything repaired on your next milestone inspection.

Extended Lifespan of Building Components

Regular building maintenance helps extend the lifespan of a building’s structural components. By keeping the facade of your building structure painted and free from concrete spalling, and properly maintained, building owners can prevent large-scale repairs, corrosion of structural components, and deterioration in the long-term. 

For instance, routine roof inspections and repairs can prevent leaks and water damage, prolonging the lifespan of the roofing materials and preventing costly structural damage to other components inside of a building.

Improved Energy Efficiency of your building

Proactive maintenance can also save you money by improving the energy efficiency of your buildings, resulting in lower utility bills. Regular maintenance of HVAC systems, lighting fixtures, and insulation can help identify and address energy-wasting issues such as air leaks, inefficient equipment, or outdated lighting technologies. By optimizing energy efficiency, building owners can reduce operating costs and improve the overall sustainability of their properties.

Minimized Downtime and Disruptions

Unexpected structural failures or electrical malfunctions can lead to costly repairs or even even worse, a collapse such as the one that occurred at Champlain Towers in Surfside. This tragedy caused chaos for a lot of families and could have easily been avoided with an ounce of prevention. Although this was an extreme case, keeping your structural components up to date can also save costly downtime and disruptions for tenants or occupants living in the building. 

Proactive maintenance helps minimize the risk of unplanned downtime by identifying and addressing potential issues before they cause major disruptions. By scheduling maintenance activities during off-peak hours and planning for equipment shutdowns in advance, building owners can minimize disruptions to operations and maintain tenant satisfaction and safety.

Enhanced Safety and Compliance

Regular building maintenance helps ensure that buildings comply with safety regulations and codes, especially when it comes to reducing the risk of accidents or injuries. By inspecting the structural components, electrical systems, fire detection systems, emergency lighting, and exit routes, building owners can create a safer environment for occupants and reduce the risk of liability. 

Last thoughts on how preventive maintenance can save you money and time

In conclusion, proactive building maintenance offers numerous benefits for building owners, associations, and building managers, including reduced repair costs, extended lifespan of building components, improved energy efficiency, minimized downtime and disruptions, and enhanced safety and compliance. By investing in preventive maintenance, building owners can save both time and money while ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of their properties.

miami dade building recertification guide

Miami Dade Building Recertification Guide

broward county building recertification guide

Broward County Building recertification guide

palm beach recertification guide main

Palm Beach Building recertification guide

Mastering the Craft: A Guide to Building Restoration Specialists

south florida building restoration specialist
building restoration specialist contractor

Mastering the Craft: A Guide to Building Restoration Specialists

In the realm of construction and engineering, there exists a specialized field that combines engineering expertise with construction knowledge: building restoration. As engineers deeply entrenched in the construction industry, We have taken on the pivotal role of building restoration specialists. With a unique blend of engineering expertise and contractor know-how, we have played a crucial role in preserving architectural heritage, reviving historic structures, and breathing new life into Florida’s aging buildings. 

In this article, I’ll delve into the multifaceted world of building restoration, shedding light from the perspective of an engineering company who are also contractors that specializing in Building restoration.

Get a Quote

Why are building restoration specialist so crucial to South Florida

After the collapse in Surfside, Florida had a big wake-up call. This was a tragic event where many people lost their lives due to problems with the structural integrity of the building. South Florida is one of the most beautiful cities in the world thanks to it’s proximity to the ocean but there is a dark side to this beautiful city. The amazing oceans are also the cause of many of the structural problems that buildings have to endure. 

If you have been around the water for a long time you know that the salt from the oceans is incredibly corrosive and will completely dissolve metal if it is exposed for long periods. Well, this is what happens to buildings in South Florida. Due to evaporation the salt molecules become suspended and start to accumulate around the Building. 

A small crack in a wall can cause some of the salt to penetrate inside and corrode the structural rebar beneath. This creates a corrosive layer over the rebar which in turn starts to expand the concrete. After some time the concrete can not take it anymore and breaks. This is what concrete repair specialists call spalling. Once the concrete has been compromised the salt ions in the air can easily penetrate any exposed rebar and it’s all downhill from there. 

This is why you should call a Building Restoration Specialist at the first sign of spalling. If you can get the spalling fixed right away it will minimize the cost of restoring your building. This is also why the Florida Building Safety Inspection program was put into place. Although it might seem like a nuisance it is also beneficial to the building owner. Checking your building every couple of years actually saves you money in the long run so that the damage does not get out of control and can be repaired. 

Navigating Technical Challenges IN BUILDING RESTORATIONS

Historic Buildings are not the only Buildings that need restoration. As a matter of fact many of Florida’s buildings need to be restored which is why the Florida Building Safety Inspection program was created. In the first phase of the program, a Professional Engineer or Architect provide a visual inspection of a building and determine whether it needs to be further inspected. 

Due to our extensive experience in Building Recertifications in South Florida we have seen it all. We have also repaired many buildings in Florida and have overcome many of the hurdles required when restoring a building.  As concrete repair specialist and structural inspectors we have seen both sides. On inspection side we have seen common areas where buildings fail and can spot damages quickly. On the construction side of things, we have developed many techniques to overcome the challenges of repairing an old building. Here are some of the problems that can occur when restoring a building. 

SOUTH FLORIDA HISTORIC BUILDING REPAIRS

Out of all Building Restoration, Historic Buildings are the most complicated. Many of the materials and techniques used to create these magnificent structures are no longer in use. Due to their Architectural Legacy and historic significance, they require a delicate repair to preserve it as it once was. Many building departments also require the exterior of the facade to remain the same. This means that after all the repairs are done the building should still look exactly how it used to when it was first built. This presents many challenges and is one of the reasons historic building restorations are so costly. 

BUILDING RESTORATION INSIDE OF COMMUNITIES

When developers are building out a modern community they usually create all of the buildings to look identical. This saves cost and time by replicating the same building over and over again and also gives the community a uniform look. However, when it comes to repairing these buildings, many associations or Building management groups require the repairs to not change the way the building looks. We have encountered this in the past when the balconies of buildings were built with a technique that is no longer in use. This presents a big challenge for the contractor completing the repairs. Trying to match the style of a balcony guard rail that is in a complicated shape can be very costly. 

Restoring buildings in busy neighborhoods

Some buildings are located in very busy areas. This presents a challenge for the building repair contractors. In order to repair the exterior of a building it must be made safe so that none of the construction materials fall and potentially hurt someone. This is why many times you see nets that are put up around a building in order to keep the surrounding area free from falling debris. 

BUILDING RESTORATION NEAR THE OCEAN

If your building is located on the water or near it, special care must be taken to ensure that none of the debris from the construction falls into the ocean and pollutes the sea. City Inspectors are always looking our for this and can give you a hefty fine if they see that your construction job is polluting the surrounding ocean or lake. 

What makes a building restoration specialist

There are many factors to consider when hiring a building restoration specialist. How much experience do they have? What projects have they worked on in the past? Do they have experience repairing old buildings? Do they pick up the phone when you call? What do customers say about the company? Do they have any references to customers that have used their service? 

These are all questions you should be asking before hiring a building repair company. Our team of engineers and contractors have more than 100 years of combined experience in Building Inspections, Concrete Repair, and most Building Repairs. We have worked on everything from historic buildings to newer buildings that tried to cut costs and ended up having to repair the buildings. 

If you are looking for a building restoration specialist feel free to give us a call. We are always happy to help you and answer any questions you might have regarding your Building restoration. 

concrete repair specialist Florida

What’s a Concrete Restoration Specialist

is this building crack dangerous

How do I know if a crack in a concrete building is serious?

commercial concrete roof repair guide-min

Essential Guide to Commercial Flat Roof Repair

The ultimate guide to hiring a Building Inspector in South Florida

south florida building inspectors guide
south florida building inspector explained

The ultimate guide to hiring a Building Inspector in South Florida

When considering hiring a Building Inspector in South Florida there are many things to consider. Whether you are a property manager, building owner, association manager, real estate investor, or an estate manager these tips will help you understand what a building inspector is and the different types of inspectors you can hire in South Florida. 

Whether it’s a residential building or a commercial building, making sure you hire the right inspector is a crucial decision. When you hire a building inspector you are trusting them to ensure the property is structurally sound, safe, and meets all necessary codes and regulations. In South Florida, where factors like weather and construction standards can vary, finding the right building inspector is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of hiring a building inspector in South Florida, ensuring you make an informed decision that protects your investment.

Get a Quote

Understand the Role of a Building Inspector

Before we dive into the hiring process, it’s crucial to understand what exactly a building inspector does. A building inspector can evaluate the structural integrity, safety features, and adherence to local building codes and regulations of a property. They inspect various elements, including the foundation, electrical systems, plumbing, roofing, and more, to identify any issues or potential problems. Some inspectors such as Engineer Building Inspectors are required if you need signed and sealed plans. You can hire an inspector to look at a small crack in a column or use them to complete a Building Safety Inspection program for your entire building. 

What are the different types of Building Inspectors in SOuth Florida?

Not all building inspectors are qualified to conduct every type of inspection. When looking to hire a Building Inspector it is important to understand the different qualities and qualifications they may bring to the table. If you do a quick Google search for “Building Inspector”, you will find hundreads of companies in South Florida that can inspect a building but not all of them can carry out specialized inspections like Building recertifications. 

Home BUILDING INSPECTORS

Most of the companies you will see online offering home building inspections will have a Building Inspection certification. This is an exam given by the Florida Building Code Administrators And Inspectors Board which is a part of the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation. 

To take this exam you must meet certain qualifications:

  • A total of four (4) years of experience in construction or a related field, building code inspection, or plan review in your desired certification category as per 468.609(2)(c)(1), F.S.
  • A combination of postsecondary education in the field of construction with hands-on experience amounting to three (3) years, with at least one (1) year of that experience in construction, building code inspection, or plan review, as per 468.609(2)(c)(2), F.S.
  • A combination of technical education in the field of construction or a related area and practical experience of three (3) years, of which at least one (1) year involves construction, building code inspection, or plan review as per 468.609(2)(c)(3), F.S.
As you can see to become a simple Building Inspector you do have to have a good amount of experience and Education in Construction. Some South Florida Inspectors have been in business for over 20 years and have extensive experience in the field. Many Inspectors were previously General Contractors or have been in the industry for a long time and have a deep understanding of the inspection process. Now let’s move on to another type of inspector.

Engineer BUILDING INSPECTORS

Another type of Building Inspector is an engineer. To become a Professional Engineer you are required to complete a four-year degree in engineering as well as take two rigorous state exams, one for the FE license and one for the PE license. After all, engineers are the ones who calculate dimensions, material compositions, and strengths, and design many of the things we see and use every day.

Besides the four years of college, the most difficult part of becoming a professional engineer in Florida is the state exams given by the Florida Board of Professional Engineers. There are two Engineering Exams you are required to pass. Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles & Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, include information on registering for them and what you can expect.

Once you pass the two exams you can become a professional engineer. Once you have the license you are held to a professional standard of conduct by the Florida Board of Engineers. Just like the Florida Bar regulates lawyers in Florida the FBPE regulates Engineers. As you can see an Engineer who is also a Building Inspector has much more knowledge and has to complete more extensive training than a basic building inspector.

 To add to that, an Engineer or Architect are the only ones who can complete more complicated inspections like the new Florida Building Safety Inspection program. Other structural inspections like a threshold inspection also require signed and sealed plans by a professional engineer.

Which Building Inspector is right for me?

If your Building Inspection, Building repair, Structural repair, or Concrete repair requires signed and sealed plans the answer is simple. You need a professional engineer to be your building inspector. They possess a formal education and understand the complexities of how Buildings are put together and where they can become structurally compromised. When you hire a structural engineer as your Building Inspector, they put their name on the line, putting their professional license and reputation on the line to ensure your building is safe. 

Final thoughtS on South Florida Building Inspectors

We went over the roles of Building Inspectors, the types of Building Inspectors, and the education required to become a South Florida Building Inspector. Depending on the type of Building inspection you need, is how you will determine the kind of Building Inspector you should choose. One thing is certain before choosing a building inspector you should do your research and make sure the inspector has the qualifications to complete your building inspection.  

miami dade building recertification guide

Miami Dade Building Recertification Guide

broward county building recertification guide

Broward County Building recertification guide

palm beach recertification guide main

Palm Beach Building recertification guide