Facade Maintenance: More Than Just Looks
Your building's facade is its first defense against the elements. Sun, rain, wind, and pollution constantly attack the exterior. Regular maintenance is crucial not just for aesthetics (curb appeal), but for structural integrity.
Key Components of Facade Care
- Regular Inspections: Early detection is key. We look for cracks in the plaster, loose bricks, fading paint, and corrosion on metal elements.
- Cleaning: Atmospheric pollution creates a grime layer that can trap moisture and accelerate decay. High-pressure washing or soft washing removes this harmful layer.
- Crack Repair: Small cracks allow water ingress. In winter, this water freezes and expands (freeze-thaw cycle), widening the crack and causing spalling (chunks falling off).
- Sealant Replacement: The caulking around windows and expansion joints dries out over time. Replacing it ensures the building envelope remains watertight.
The Role of Rope Access
Inspecting every square meter of a facade using scaffolding is prohibitively expensive. Rope access technicians can:
- Abseil down the entire face of the building.
- Get up close to potential problem areas.
- Take high-resolution photos for the facility manager.
- Perform immediate spot repairs.
Scheduling
We recommend a visual inspection annually and a thorough cleaning/maintenance cycle every 3-5 years, depending on the building materials.
Pro Tip: Combine window cleaning with a visual facade inspection to save money!