The assessment stage is critical to the development of any renovation or renewal project. After considering concerns that the Client wants addressed, an assessment of existing conditions and components allows us to more accurately identify an ideal scope of work and repair / renewal strategy. We can then develop projects that provide improved building performance, function, reputation, occupant satisfaction and long-term value.
The various assessment services provided by BCBS involve the latest technical practices, along with well-established, internal assessment guidelines outlined in our internal quality service manual. These services may include, as appropriate:
- Technical examination of as-built documents such as drawings and specifications to determine original construction techniques and potential areas of concern;
- Technical visual assessment of existing assemblies and components to document original construction conditions and potential areas of concern needing further investigation;
- Minimally invasive borescope camera assessment to investigate concealed components and assemblies;
- Non-invasive moisture sensor scans or minimally invasive moisture probe tests to determine the extent of moisture retention at concealed components that may be sensitive to such conditions;
- Invasive testing of existing components and conditions such as cut or adhesion tests through exterior coatings (paint) or waterproofing membranes to confirm as-built conditions such as product adhesion or thickness, and to check concealed conditions behind finishes (and coordination of resultant temporary or permanent repairs or refinishing work if appropriate to the level of investigation);
- Temporary removals of existing finishes such as existing siding to allow for examination of concealed conditions;
- Invasive core testing of finishes not able to be removed and reinstated in order to assess concealed conditions; and
- Coordination of Contractor support to facilitate on-site examination work.
Once the appropriate assessment activities are completed, we analyze all data collected in order to reveal patterns or sequences of concern. Conditions are then organized by assembly and then by priority. Priority ratings may vary depending on a particular building’s needs, but they generally refer to the potential ‘urgency’ of repair or renewal and the timing of such repair or renewal. Priority may also depend on the effect of repair or renewal of one particular component or assembly on another. The interrelation of components and assemblies to one another is critical to the overall function and appeal of a building exterior, so their relationship should be considered.
Out of these condition and priority ratings, a suitable and appropriate repair or renewal strategy can be developed – whether it be a small, simple and selective repair strategy or a comprehensive renovation project. While immediate repair needs are an important consideration, a holistic and comprehensive view of building repair and renewal is equally important. This is necessary to ensure the effective use of the Client’s short-term and long-term funds, and to allow for decisions made based on a fully informed and transparent process. An experienced Consultant that is able to provide realistic, appropriate solutions is key to this process.