Why Façade Inspection Matters

As buildings age and regulatory scrutiny heightens, regular facade inspections are now vital. Let’s explore current standards, why they matter, and what you should expect in 2025. 

• Extreme weather triggers: Even wind speeds below 40 mph—as experienced during Tropical Depression Irma—have caused facade failures in downtown Atlanta, despite facades being designed for 90 mph wind loads.
• Aging building stock: Atlanta and Seattle have many decades old structures. With time, materials age and defects accumulate, increasing chances of cracks, corrosion, and loose finishes if unaddressed.

Beyond the Inspection

Here are some additional tips for maintaining your building’s facade:

• Schedule regular cleanings: Dirt and grime buildup can trap moisture and accelerate deterioration. The frequency of cleaning will depend on your location and environment.
• Address minor issues promptly: Don’t let small cracks or loose caulking become major problems. Fixing them early will save you money in the long run.
• Work with qualified professionals: Hire experienced inspectors and contractors for facade inspections and repairs. They can identify potential problems and recommend the best course of action.

Read more about façade inspection on our website!

Utilize the IEI Advantage for Your Facade Inspection!

Did you know that a structured self-inspection of your building can prevent problems before they start and before anyone gets hurt? What may appear as an insignificant defect can turn into a big problem if ignored.

Our state-of-the-art techniques provide a very thorough condition assessment and facade inspection. The time to know the true extent of any deficiencies is now, not after closure of downtown streets or worse, personal injury, death, and/or property damage occurs. Contact us today!

Why Inspect Building Facades?

1. Public safety

Cracks, spalling, or loose panels can endanger pedestrians and occupants. Inspections identify such hazards early.

2. Cost control & value preservation

Preventative maintenance helps avoid expensive failures down the line, preserving your building’s aesthetics and market value.

3. Regulatory compliance

13 jurisdictions (e.g., NYC, Milwaukee) mandate facade inspections to preempt incidents like falling debris.

Unlike many major U.S. cities with mandatory facade ordinances (e.g., NYC, Chicago, San Francisco, Atlanta and Seattle currently have no municipal law requiring periodic facade inspections. However, per the International Property Maintenance Code, building exteriors must be maintained in good repair, structurally sound, and not endanger public safety or welfare.

Consequently, many Atlanta building owners choose to inspect their facades proactively to reduce liability risk and protect occupants and passersby.

Read more about façade inspection on our website!

Utilize the IEI Advantage for Your Facade Inspection!

Did you know that a structured self-inspection of your building can prevent problems before they start and before anyone gets hurt? What may appear as an insignificant defect can turn into a big problem if ignored.

Our state-of-the-art techniques provide a very thorough condition assessment and facade inspection. The time to know the true extent of any deficiencies is now, not after closure of downtown streets or worse, personal injury, death, and/or property damage occurs. Contact us today!

The Importance of Regular Building Envelope Inspections

Regular building envelope inspections can identify potential problems early on, when they are less costly and complex to address. A thorough inspection should cover:   

• Roof condition: Check for leaks and damage.   
• Wall integrity: Inspect for cracks, water stains, and deterioration of exterior finishes.
• Window and door performance: Assess for air leaks, water infiltration, and operational issues.
• Foundation stability: Look for cracks, water seepage, and soil erosion.

The frequency of inspections depends on factors such as building age, climate, and materials. For older buildings or those in harsh environments, more frequent inspections may be necessary.

Read more on our website!

Don’t Put off a Building Envelope Inspection! Schedule Today

Need a building envelope inspection you can rely on? We use the highest standards to determine the safety of your building. 

Every deficiency noted is analyzed to determine the root cause and severity. Most often this analysis is conducted during the inspection, and later documented.  Severity levels for deficiencies are classified as follows:

• Unsafe condition
• Requires repair/stabilization
• Ordinary maintenance

Our state-of-the-art techniques provide a very thorough condition assessment. The time to know the true extent of any deficiencies is now, not after the restoration contractor has started work – which would lead to change orders and damaged reputations. Contact us today!

Protecting Your Investment with Building Envelope Inspection

A building's envelope is its first line of defense against the elements. It encompasses the roof, walls, windows, and foundation, working tirelessly to protect the building's interior. 

Regular inspections are essential to maintain property value, energy efficiency, and occupant safety. But beyond these benefits, building envelope inspections also play a crucial role in mitigating liability.   

A piece of masonry falls off a building every three weeks. Unfortunately, it had to take serious injury, death, and property damage to cause 13 major cities to institute façade ordinances. Additionally, many major property owners have instituted their own façade inspection policies.

Understanding the Risks

Neglecting building envelope maintenance can lead to a cascade of problems, including:

• Water intrusion: This can cause structural damage, mold growth, and electrical hazards.   
• Energy loss: A compromised envelope allows heat to escape in winter and infiltrate in summer, increasing energy costs and reducing comfort.
• Safety hazards: Deteriorated components, such as loose masonry or failing windows, can pose risks to occupants and pedestrians.   

Read more on our website!

Don’t Put off a Building Envelope Inspection! Schedule Today

Need a building envelope inspection you can rely on? We use the highest standards to determine the safety of your building. 

Every deficiency noted is analyzed to determine the root cause and severity. Most often this analysis is conducted during the inspection, and later documented.  Severity levels for deficiencies are classified as follows:

• Unsafe condition
• Requires repair/stabilization
• Ordinary maintenance

Our state-of-the-art techniques provide a very thorough condition assessment. The time to know the true extent of any deficiencies is now, not after the restoration contractor has started work – which would lead to change orders and damaged reputations. Contact us today!

Beyond the Inspection: Keeping Your Facade in Top Shape

Inspections are important, but there's more to facade maintenance! Here are some additional tips:

• Schedule regular cleanings to prevent dirt buildup and moisture damage.
• Address minor issues like cracks or loose caulking promptly to avoid bigger problems later.
• Hire qualified professionals for inspections and repairs to ensure the best care for your building's exterior.

By following these tips, you can keep your building's facade looking great and functioning effectively for years to come!

Read the full article on our website!

Utilize the IEI Advantage for Your Facade Inspection!

Did you know that a structured self-inspection of your building can prevent problems before they start and before anyone gets hurt? What may appear as an insignificant defect can turn into a big problem if ignored.

Our state-of-the-art techniques provide a very thorough condition assessment and facade inspection. The time to know the true extent of any deficiencies is now, not after closure of downtown streets or worse, personal injury, death, and/or property damage occurs. Contact us today!

How Often Should You Inspect Your Building's Facade?

Your building's facade is more than just its looks! Regular inspections are key to catching problems early and preventing costly repairs. Here's a quick tip:

• Facades in good condition can typically wait 5 years between inspections.
• If yours shows signs of wear and tear, consider inspections every 2-3 years.
• Learn more about the importance of façade inspection here.

Read the full article on our website!

Utilize the IEI Advantage for Your Facade Inspection!

Did you know that a structured self-inspection of your building can prevent problems before they start and before anyone gets hurt? What may appear as an insignificant defect can turn into a big problem if ignored.

Our state-of-the-art techniques provide a very thorough condition assessment and facade inspection. The time to know the true extent of any deficiencies is now, not after closure of downtown streets or worse, personal injury, death, and/or property damage occurs. Contact us today!

Identifying Signs of Façade Deterioration

Is your building showing signs of wear and tear?

If you notice cracks, stains, corrosion, and other forms of damage, it’s time to begin restoration. As buildings age, their exteriors, require maintenance and restoration to preserve their structural integrity, aesthetics, and functionality. 

Here are signs of façade deterioration you should be looking for: 

Cracks and Spalling

Cracks in façade material, such as concrete, brick, or stone, can signal underlying structural problems. Spalling, where fragments of material break off, is often a sign of water damage or underlying deterioration. 

Stains and Discoloration

Stains of the façade surface may indicate water infiltration. Water infiltration through cracks or gaps in the façade can lead to rust, mold, and deterioration of steel reinforcements. 

Loose, Moving or Detached Elements

Loose or detached façade elements, such as panels, tiles, or decorative features, pose a safety risk and indicate potential structural instability.  

Corrosion

Corrosion of metal elements within the façade, such as steel support beams or anchors, can weaken the structure over time, leading to potential collapse. 

Read more on our website!

Hire a Professional for a Building Façade Inspection in Atlanta!

Neglecting façade maintenance overtime can have major consequences including costly repairs, safety hazards, decreased property value, and even potential legal liabilities. Therefore, investing in façade restoration is not only a matter of preserving your building’s appearance, but also keeps your occupants safe and ensures long-term sustainability. 

Contact us today to schedule a building façade inspection in Atlanta! Our engineers are happy to look at your structure and let you know of any issues that require immediate attention so you can keep your occupants safe and extend the lifespan of your building. 

Understanding the Façade Inspection & Restoration Process

Due for a façade inspection but don’t know where to begin?

The façade of a building serves as a protective shield against external elements like weather, pollution, and physical damage.

If you begin noticing cracks, stains, corrosion, and other forms of damage, know that it’s time to begin restoration. Façade restoration is not just for aesthetic enhancements. It’s a crucial aspect of building management because it ensures the safety of occupants and the longevity of the structure. 

Façade restoration requires a methodic approach, requiring inspections, planning and execution. Here’s how the restoration process works: 

Façade Assessment 

This involves a thorough inspection of the façade to identify existing issues, including cracks, spalling, corrosion, and water infiltration. Enlisting the help of qualified professionals helps you assess the extent of damage and recommend the appropriate repair measures. 

Develop a Restoration Plan 

Based on your assessment findings, develop a restoration plan outlining the scope of work, timeline, and budget. This will help prioritize repairs according to the severity of issues and potential safety risks. 

Repair and Restore

Implement the repairs deemed necessary per your restoration plan. This may include repairing cracks, replacing damaged façade elements, waterproofing, and reinforcing structural components to enhance the stability and resilience of your building. 

Preventative Maintenance 

After your repairs have been made, it’s important to establish a proactive façade maintenance plan to prevent future deterioration and prolong the lifespan of the façade. 

This can include routine inspections, cleaning, sealing, painting, and addressing minor issues before they escalate into major problems. 

Read more on our website!

Create a Restoration Plan with a Building Façade Inspection in Atlanta!

Façade maintenance requires careful planning, skilled execution, and ongoing maintenance to ensure optimal results. 

Contact us today to schedule a building façade inspection in Atlanta! Our engineers at IEI are happy to look at your structure and let you know of any issues that require immediate attention so you can keep your occupants safe and extend the lifespan of your building.