Mar 28, 2024

Leap year provided us an early spring this year, while the “prognosticator of prognosticators,” Punxatawney Phil, all but guaranteed it. With spring comes the welcoming, warm weather, losing an hour of sleep due to daylight savings time, and possibly even more when we realize it’s also time for spring cleaning.

For commercial property owners, spring brings about the opportunity to get your buildings in tip-top shape in preparation for all that Mother Nature brings in beauty and beast. This article covers how a robust spring cleaning regiment fortifies your building against the upcoming seasonal challenges.

The Power of Spring Cleaning

The concept of spring cleaning dates back hundreds of years, if not more, and is steeped in cultural tradition. As a long-standing tradition, spring cleaning presents the perfect opportunity as the temperatures get warmer, the days get longer, and nature awakens from its slumber to restore your building’s shine.

The building’s exterior is the first thing people notice, and a well-maintained facade can significantly enhance the building’s curb appeal. Spring cleaning improves the overall appearance and hygiene of your building by removing accumulated dust, dirt, and other debris. While the act of cleaning itself positively impacts health and well-being, it also affects the health and morale of occupants. As a building owner, checking off your spring cleaning list provides a sense of accomplishment and instills confidence that your tenants are taken care of.

If you don’t have a spring cleaning checklist, start with an assessment of your property to uncover what areas most need attention. Sidewalks, parking garages, windows, and parking decks are a few of the most common areas to review during your assessment. This is also an excellent time to work with your building services provider to check sealants for signs of wear and the facade for damage. Spring cleaning and proactive maintenance are your best line of defense and offense for upcoming seasonal challenges.

Pollen Impact and Preparation

Itchy eyes, runny noses, and sluggish feelings are just a few symptoms people struggle with as spring flowers bloom. Pollen doesn’t just wreak havoc on those with allergies. If left unabated, pollen can affect indoor air quality. Pollen can pile up on parking decks, walkways, and other exterior surfaces, making your building look dingy and neglected. Pressure washing and window cleaning, can rid your building of its coat of pollen.

Bracing for the Buzz: Pre-Spring Pest Prep

Pollen isn’t the only thing that emerges around springtime. This year experts predict what they call a double brood event of cicada emergence, producing billions of noisy creatures. While cicadas aren’t quite the nuisance to building owners that, rodents, roaches, and bedbugs are, their emergence will leave behind carcasses and attract predators sure to leave their mark. Bird proofing and a proactive approach to spring cleaning and maintenance is your first line of defense in ensuring your building is well-protected from pests.

Spring Into Action With Proactive Maintenance

Both spring and fall present opportune moments to spruce up your building and remove the remnants of the previous season. Just past the winter thaw and before the full brunt of the summer heat is perfect for comprehensive window cleaning. Professional window cleaning services don’t just remove superficial dirt, they take care of pollen, bird droppings, and smudges and streaks. This is essential in preventing build-up on your windows that can deteriorate their quality over time. When that happens, returning your windows to the ideal condition requires more extensive efforts including deep cleaning, restoration, or even full replacement.

Other common areas, like parking decks and walkways, are equally important in spring cleaning. These high-traffic areas bear the brunt of daily traffic and the harsh summer and winter environments. Using a scrubber or pressure washing these surfaces removes residue from ice-melt treatments and other contaminants. Pressure washing can remove mold growth from walkways common during the rainy season and a potential risk for slips and falls. This paves the way for a safer and aesthetically pleasing building and campus.

Make Spring Cleaning a Breeze with Valcourt Services

Through spring cleaning and preventative maintenance, you can avoid costly repairs and replacements, significantly boost tenant satisfaction, and, ultimately, enhance your property’s value. Valcourt Building Services stands at the forefront of preserving and elevating commercial properties with an unwavering focus on safety and customer satisfaction.

By entrusting your property to Valcourt Building Services, you choose a partner dedicated to maintaining its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Contact Valcourt today to see how our range of services, from cleaning facades to large-scale restoration projects, ensures that your building not only withstands the tests of time and nature but also thrives.

Mar 21, 2024

Despite your best efforts in regular upkeep, natural wear and tear sometimes take its toll on your windows. When you notice that even the most meticulous cleaning doesn’t restore former glory, it’s time for a strategic pivot. This article will help you recognize the signs of window deterioration and introduce window restoration as a cost-effective and budget-friendly alternative to complete replacement.

Glass Restoration: Reviving Your Windows

Addressing common issues like stubborn stains and fading clarity shouldn’t cost you an entire window installation. When regular window cleaning isn’t returning your windows to pristine condition or staining, clouding, and etching won’t go away, restoration may be in order.

Removing ground-level staining, which is expected due to hard water from irrigation systems, can rejuvenate your windows and add to your building’s curb appeal. This budget-friendly project is smaller in scope than a full glass restoration and is a good addition to any preventative maintenance plan, especially for areas notorious for hard water.

Understanding the true potential of glass restoration is knowing when to intervene. This isn’t merely about reversing obvious damage; it’s about preventing the gradual, often unnoticed, deterioration that accumulates into major financial drains. The environmental onslaught of sun and storms, as well as the occasional misadventures of accidental damages, merits a comprehensive approach to window wellness.

Commercial Window Restoration Process

Revitalizing your commercial windows through restoration isn’t merely an aesthetic upgrade—it’s a strategic move that strengthens their endurance and function. Consider it a proactive measure to secure your property’s market worth and the satisfaction of its tenants. When carried out correctly, the process can return the glass very close to its original clarity, offering a far more cost-effective solution than a complete replacement.

A typical glass restoration project may consist of the following elements.

Pressure Washing & Seal Facade

This step removes dirt and grime from the building’s facade using high-pressure water jets. Depending on your building, you may want to consider sealing or re-sealing the facade to prevent future mineral leaching and staining. Sealing can also help improve energy efficiency and maintain aesthetic appeal.

Restore the Glass 

Similar to buffing a car, this method efficiently removes stains without harming the glass. The process involves applying a restorative cleaning product that is carefully buffed and polished across the window’s surface.

It’s a meticulous procedure that targets surface dirt and pollutants trapped within the glass’s microscopic imperfections, effectively eliminating deposits and staining that regular cleaning can’t address. To further lengthen the lifespan of the windows, a water repellant can be added, offering extra surface protection for the glass.

Deep Clean Window Frames 

Deep cleaning involves thoroughly removing dirt, debris, and any corrosive elements accumulated over time, ensuring the frames’ structural integrity and visual appeal are maintained. Specialized cleaning solutions and techniques address each frame’s unique material, whether metal, wood, or vinyl, effectively rejuvenating them to match the restored glass’s pristine condition.

While the deep cleaning process is optional, restoration is an opportune time to implement this proactive measure. This step not only improves the overall look but also contributes to the longevity of the window system.

Quality Check & Final Walkthrough

This ensures the restoration process meets quality standards. The quality check and final walkthrough verifies the restoration has successfully restored the window’s aesthetics, ensuring a seamless blend with the building’s overall appearance.

This comprehensive approach guarantees the longevity and effectiveness of the restoration work. With the windows restored to their optimal state, attention shifts to maintaining their condition and performance through post-restoration care and maintenance.

Post-Restoration Care and Maintenance

Post-restoration, the service provider should clean the windows one final time, making them appear new. A best practice is to provide the customer with an after-action report to ensure they understand the ongoing maintenance necessary for upkeep.

We recommend:

• Regular Window Cleaning – Cleaning the exterior glass a minimum of 2-4 times a year removes dirt and pollutants while preserving visibility and glass quality. You can save in the long run and prolong the need for deep cleaning by staying on track with regular window cleaning, pressure washing, and sealing.
• Facade Cleaning & Resealing – Pressure washing the building facade every 5-7 years and following resealing guidance will help protect against environmental damage and water intrusion.
• Periodic Deep Cleaning – Deep clean exterior glass if it is affected by heavy build-up from deferred maintenance or construction debris. This more intensive cleaning addresses any buildup that regular cleanings cannot remove and checks the integrity of the frames.

While windows don’t last forever, a proactive approach to window and facade maintenance will extend their life and deliver a greater ROI on your investment.

Optimizing Your Building’s Window Longevity with Glass Restoration

Employing glass restoration and proactive care offers a strategic approach to revitalizing your commercial windows. Investing in restoration protects not just your windows but also your peace of mind, knowing that you’re preemptively mitigating risks and future expenses like window replacement.

Rest assured, with Valcourt’s expertise, you’ll be extending the life of your windows, enhancing the aesthetics of your building, and improving energy efficiency. If you suspect your windows need attention or professional cleaning, contact Valcourt today for a quote.

 

Mar 19, 2024

What is the key to building longevity? For the Romans, with structures still standing 2,000 years later, it was self-healing concrete. In the U.S., where the average age of commercial buildings qualifies them for an AARP card, the key to longevity is preventative maintenance.

Sealants protect buildings and prevent water, air, and other environmental elements from seeping in and wreaking havoc. When left unchecked, external elements can significantly damage your building’s structural integrity and shorten its lifespan. This article will guide you through the optimal timing to replace building sealant, signs of sealant failure, and actionable advice to ensure your building’s longevity and aesthetic appeal.

Building Sealant Application and Lifespan

Most commercial buildings in the U.S. are in the “old-age” phase of the building life cycle, with an average age of over 53. A condo in Honolulu shows that buildings have the potential to last hundreds of years through a proactive approach and by addressing warning signs before they lead to significant problems.

Sealants aim to keep unwanted water, pests, and potentially hazardous pathogens at bay. These applications are an industry staple, but they don’t last forever. They require inspection, reapplication, and replacement to ensure effective weatherproofing and waterproofing. There are two main types of sealants to consider, each offering distinct advantages.

Silicone sealants are known for their durability, flexibility, and resistance to temperature variations and UV light, making them ideal for use on glass, metal, or tile surfaces. More of a joint compound than a sealant, silicone dries fast and can last up to 20 years or more, depending on the environmental conditions.

Polyurethane sealants, on the other hand, are better suited for natural surfaces like wood or stone due to their strength and adhesion. While polyurethane sealants are true sealants, they typically have a shorter lifespan than silicone, ranging from 5 to 10 years, and take longer to cure and dry.

Your building service provider can help you choose the proper sealant based on environmental exposure, scope of work, desired longevity, and upkeep.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Building Sealant

Building inspections are an ideal time to look for indicators that the sealant is failing. At the minimum, these inspections should occur annually. Factors such as building age, environmental exposure, and problematic areas require more frequent inspections.

Here’s what to look for when inspecting your building sealants:

1. Is the surface of the sealant cracked or alligatored?

2. Are there cracks, punctures, discoloration, or missing sealants on the building exterior and/or window perimeters?

3. Has the existing sealant become hardened?

4. Are any sealants separated from the substrate/wall or window/door perimeters?

5. Is the sealant reverting to a soft/tacky state?

6. Is there any evidence the joints have been skimmed over?

Catching a problem early makes all the difference in remedying it. Leveraging technology like drones to record video allows you to capture photos to document how well your building is aging, plan for capital improvement projects, and give you an idea of how long an issue has persisted.

ROI and Value of Proactive Sealant Replacement

Regular inspections and proactive sealant replacement deliver ROI savings on energy costs, prevent extensive damages, and avoid tenant disruptions. The Onslow Memorial Hospital, located in Hurricane Alley, relies on waterproofing in the face of relentless weather to ensure services aren’t interrupted for the patients they care for.

In Valcourt’s webinar “Unlocking Hidden Value: How to Optimize Your Facilities Budget,” Adam Hibshman of ProXpress shares a real-world example of how passing on a minor painting and sealant can balloon repair costs. In two short years, minor repairs became extensive as the damage permeated the interior, adding another $105,000 to repair costs and nearly doubling the original quote.

The ROI in this case is clear – taking preventative measures such as sealant replacement can save thousands of dollars in potential damages. But it’s not just about the cost savings; it’s also about maintaining a safe and functional space for tenants and employees.

Implementing a Proactive Sealant Replacement Program

The Department of Energy’s (DOE) Building Technology Office is trying to match the Romans by developing a self-healing sealant of their own. This innovation has great potential in minimizing costs and extending the life of buildings. However, until this miracle product becomes a reality, implementing a proactive sealant replacement program is your best bet for preserving building integrity.

1. Routine Inspection Schedule: Establish a regular schedule for sealant inspections, focusing on areas known for water infiltration and environmental wear.
2. Documentation and Tracking: Record inspection dates, document findings with photos, and actions taken. Thorough documentation ensures consistency, aids in planning future maintenance, and provides a historical record of sealant performance.
3. Professional Consultation: Engage with building service providers to assess your building’s specific needs, recommend the best sealant options, and ensure proper application for long-lasting protection.

Implementing this program involves periodic maintenance and responding proactively to the earliest signs of wear or damage, such as cracking, discoloration, or detachment from the substrate. By partnering with specialists, you can tailor effective strategies for sealant maintenance, ensuring your building remains secure, functional, and visually appealing.

A Proactive Sealant Strategy for Building Longevity

The longevity and resilience of your building rest significantly on the strategic replacement of sealants. Proactive maintenance curbs potential damage and delivers considerable return on investment, safeguarding your property’s aesthetic and structural integrity.

Enhance your building’s integrity with our Building Facade Assessment Tool, featuring a comprehensive section on joint sealants. This resource allows you to visually identify maintenance needs and provides a detailed report.

Don’t wait for minor concerns to escalate into costly repairs; explore our tool now to prioritize your building’s longevity.

 

Mar 06, 2024

Are you doing the most you can to maximize your exterior maintenance service provider?

Working with a professional contractor to define a maintenance program suited to your building ensures immediate issues are resolved, and larger-scale repair and replacement planning are in place to assist with budgeting. While proactive maintenance is the best way to minimize capital repairs, it takes planning and know-how.

Tune in to on-demand webinar, Maximize Exterior Maintenance & Minimize Repair Costs, at your convenience to learn what to expect from a professional exterior maintenance contractor as well as how to best qualify a contractor to meet your project’s needs. By watching this webinar, you’ll gain knowledge on:

• How a defined maintenance program minimizes repair costs
• Best practice strategies and example questions to ask when qualifying a contractor
• What to expect from a professional maintenance contractor, including:
  • Scheduling & Timeliness
  • Communication
  • Project Execution
  • Documentation
  • Safety Precautions
  • And more!

A successful building maintenance plan starts with navigating the process of working directly with a contractor as well as a consultant or professional engineer. Once established, having your maintenance program in place before an urgent issue occurs is the key to saving you time and money.

Watch the on-demand webinar here.

Dec 28, 2023

Choosing the right building service provider is paramount for property managers and building owners. The stakes are high, as a poor selection can lead to inadequate maintenance, increased liability, and even property devaluation. Making an informed decision means considering expertise, safety standards, and customer feedback.

This comprehensive guide will assist you in navigating through the selection process, ensuring you partner with a service provider who aligns with your property’s specific needs and maintains its value and integrity.

Consequences of Poor Selection: Liability and Cost Implications

With so much on the line, the consequences of choosing a substandard service provider can lead to significant liability claims, fines, and costly repairs.

• Premises Liability Claims: This type of claim arises when injuries occur due to a dangerous condition on another person’s property. To establish a premises liability claim, it’s typically necessary to prove three key elements: a dangerous condition existed on the property, the property owner was negligent in creating or not addressing this condition, and this negligence directly resulted in injury or property damage. Building service providers who lack experience, perform low-quality work, or use cheap materials put building owners at greater risk of falling victim to this type of claim.
• Lost Time Managing Subpar Vendors: Hiring subpar vendors often results in poor communication, lack of follow-through and response time, and rework. Spending time constantly following up with vendors or even chasing down an unresponsive vendor wastes your time. In the long run, you will likely need to find another provider to do the job correctly.
• Costly Repairs: When vendors fail to make repairs correctly the first time or to perform preventative maintenance, it will lead to expensive repairs. For instance, the cost of correcting someone else’s mistake will most certainly cost more than the original quote. Ignoring preventative maintenance can cause issues to go unnoticed and fester into larger problems.
• Lower Property Value: Structural integrity, curb appeal, and safety are critical to your property’s value. Unlike factors such as the economy and interest rates, maintaining your property is within your control. One way or another, your choice of building service provider directly impacts the value of your property.

Selecting a reliable and competent service provider is crucial for efficient property management, property value, and avoiding repeated interventions, hassles, and expenses.

Selecting the Right Building Service Provider

The ideal building service provider should not only fit within your budget but also possess the capabilities to meet your property’s unique demands. Make it a priority to choose a building service provider who aligns well with your objectives and ensures that your property is maintained effectively, enhancing its value and appeal. This decision is about more than just immediate service needs; it’s about forming a partnership that supports your property’s ongoing success and sustainability.

1. Evaluate for Expertise and Experience

Evaluating a building service provider’s expertise and experience is a crucial step. You can achieve this by exploring several avenues, such as online reviews, the provider’s website, and direct inquiries.

• Online Reviews and Ratings: Check online platforms like Google, Yelp, or industry-specific sites for reviews and ratings. These can provide insights into the provider’s performance and customer satisfaction levels.
• Provider’s Website: Visit their official website to explore case studies, project portfolios, and testimonials. This information often reflects their experience and areas of specialization.
• Professional Networks: Contact your network of property owners and managers for recommendations and firsthand experiences with various providers.
• Industry Forums and Online Communities: Engage in forums or platforms where property management professionals discuss and share experiences with different service providers.
• Direct Inquiry: Contact the provider directly and request detailed information about their past projects, years in business, and client references.

These methods can collectively provide a comprehensive understanding of a provider’s expertise and reliability in the field.

2. Assess the Provider’s Service Offerings

When selecting a building service provider, it’s vital to ensure they offer a comprehensive range of services that cater to the diverse needs of your buildings. This adaptability is crucial for addressing unique maintenance requirements effectively.

• Wide Range of Services: A proficient provider should offer various services, such as window cleaning, waterproofing, and concrete and leak repair. This flexibility includes customizing maintenance plans, adjusting service schedules, and being able to handle unforeseen issues promptly.
• Specialized Solutions: Providers should have tailored solutions catering to these building types, showcasing their understanding and expertise in various fields.
• Resource Availability: Examine the provider’s resources, including their workforce, equipment, and technological capabilities. These resources should align with the scale and complexity of your building’s maintenance needs.
• Commitment to Preventative Maintenance: A focus on proactive strategies to mitigate wear and tear is essential. This approach helps maintain the building’s aesthetics and structural integrity, prolonging its lifespan.

A building service provider’s ability to offer wide-ranging, specialized, and flexible services, supported by adequate resources and a preventative approach, is crucial in selecting the right partner for your building’s maintenance needs.

3. Ensure Safety Standards and Compliance

Prioritizing safety in building maintenance is non-negotiable. Ensure the provider adheres to industry-standard safety protocols and requires OSHA-required certifications & inspections when suspending from your roof anchorages. A commitment to ongoing employee training and safety education is vital.

This commitment to safety protects workers and ensures the integrity and security of your property.

• OSHA Certifications: Confirm that the provider has relevant safety training certifications from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other industry associations, like OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 training. These certifications are indicators of a provider’s dedication to maintaining high safety standards in their operations.
• Standards & Regulations: Question your provider’s knowledge of compliance with various regulatory bodies. This knowledge demonstrates their commitment to following legal safety requirements and industry best practices.
• Ongoing Training and Education: Evaluate the provider’s commitment to continuous employee training and safety education. Regular training ensures that the workforce is up-to-date with the latest safety protocols and techniques, minimizing risks and enhancing the quality of service.

A safety-minded building service provider adheres to regulatory compliance and fosters a safe working environment, safeguarding the workforce, tenants, and property.

4. Review Risk Mitigation Capabilities

Assessing risk mitigation capabilities involves examining whether the provider is sufficiently equipped to manage and minimize potential risks associated with building maintenance, repairs, and emergencies. Such capabilities are pivotal in ensuring the provider can support your property effectively, not just under normal circumstances but also in unexpected situations that may arise.

• Licensed, Bonded, and Insured: A building service provider that is licensed, bonded, and insured offers legal credibility, financial protection against potential job failures or damages, and insurance coverage for accidents or liabilities.
• Proactive Business Continuity Approach: The ideal provider will have well-developed business continuity and emergency preparedness plans. For example, evaluating the work site for hazards before starting a job, planning active job-site hours when it’s best for the safety of your property and its tenants, properly blocking off the job site area, and having emergency rescue plans when using suspended access equipment.
• Emergency Preparedness: A provider with robust emergency response protocols, such as emergency leak repair, ensures that your property receives prompt and effective service during critical situations, minimizing potential damage and downtime.

A building service provider who prioritizes risk mitigation understands the impacts on your tenants and property when things don’t go as planned. A provider who has this mindset ensures prompt building repairs and takes measures to prevent future problems.

5. Making Your Selection

After narrowing down your choices based on expertise, service offerings, safety standards, and risk mitigation, it’s time to make the final selection. This crucial step involves a detailed evaluation of how each candidate aligns with your needs and goals.

• Request and Compare Proposals: Review detailed proposals from your shortlisted providers. Assess how each proposal addresses your requirements, including service scope, timelines, and cost.
• Site Visits and Meetings: Arrange site visits or meetings with potential providers. Observe their professionalism and ask in-depth questions about their approach to your project.
• Final Evaluation: Consider all the information gathered, including feedback from references. Evaluate each provider’s ability to deliver quality services within your budget.

Choose the provider who best fits your criteria and demonstrates the capability to maintain and enhance your property effectively. Remember, the right provider is not just a contractor but a partner in maintaining your property’s value and functionality.

Valcourt’s Expertise in Building Services

At Valcourt Building Services, we pride ourselves on offering an extensive range of specialized building services. Our expertise encompasses waterproofing, window cleaning, facade repair and restoration, rapid leak repair, comprehensive safety system installations, and anchor inspections & certifications. We are committed to delivering high-quality services tailored to meet the unique needs of each building.

Our team, equipped with industry-leading knowledge and tools, ensures every project upholds the highest standards of safety and excellence. Contact Valcourt today and partner with a team dedicated to preserving and enhancing the value and functionality of your property.

Dec 12, 2023

Devastating hurricane rains and roaring floodwaters aren’t required to inflict damage on a building. Even small, persistent leaks can have a profound impact. Over time, these leaks can expand and contract with freezing and thawing cycles, exacerbating the damage.

Water leaks gradually undermine the structural soundness of your building, posing a persistent threat. Leaking pipes, often due to corrosion, bursting, or failure, are a significant source of water damage in commercial buildings, frequently leading to insurance claims. Given these statistics, the urgency for rapid commercial leak detection and effective leak control services becomes paramount to limiting water damage.

In Commercial Buildings, Small Leaks Can Cause Significant Damage

Not only do leaks compromise building surfaces, but they can also damage electrical components and create hazardous breathing environments for tenants. Common causes of commercial water damage stem from HVAC failures, plumbing leaks, appliance malfunctions, roof and wall vulnerabilities, and flooding or sewage complications.

Water leaks can lead to mold growth, posing severe health risks such as respiratory symptoms, asthma, and allergic reactions. Promptly addressing leaks helps prevent health hazards by reducing the likelihood of mold growth and attracting unwanted pests like roaches and rodents.

Did you know?

• A single drip per second adds up to nearly 3000 gallons of water annually. That’s over 12 tons!
• A minor ⅛ inch crack in plumbing can unleash 250 gallons of water per day, costing nearly $3000 daily.
• Water damage is the predominant cause of property loss in offices and other commercial buildings, accounting for 57% of all annual insurance claims.

These figures underscore the critical need for commercial leak detection and leak control services.

For Commercial Building Managers, Time is Key to Effective Leak Management

The financial and structural costs of delayed leak response can be substantial. This section delves into the importance of swift and strategic approaches to leak management, emphasizing the need to minimize damage efficiently.

Three Strategies for Rapid Commercial Water Leak Repair

So, how can you prepare for an emergency leak repair to ensure the safety and integrity of your building? Regular inspections and monitoring play a crucial role in the early detection of potential issues.

Have a Plan in Place

Leveraging experts at leak control services is a critical front-line defense. To enhance preparedness, we encourage building managers to pre-identify resources for rapid response and thoroughly contemplate ‘what if’ scenarios, ensuring readiness for any eventuality. Integral to this proactive strategy is establishing and maintaining a relationship with a reputable building maintenance and leak repair organization, which forms the cornerstone of effective and swift leak management.

Know Your Building

Understanding the specific vulnerabilities of a building allows managers to pinpoint potential issues and swiftly tailor repair strategies. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance are crucial in early leak detection and efficient management.

Having an in-depth understanding of your building’s unique vulnerabilities is particularly valuable.

• Building Profile: The age of the building and how it was constructed can significantly influence the types of issues you might encounter. Older buildings, for instance, might be more prone to certain types of leaks due to aging materials or outdated construction methods.
• Repair History: Insights into previous problems can predict future issues, guiding managers in proactive maintenance. For example, if a building has recurring roof leaks issues, this area should be a focus during regular inspections.
• Know Your Neighbors: Experiences of nearby buildings or similar structures can reveal insights into where and when a commercial water leak may occur.

Trust the Experts

Experienced professionals know what to look for when investigating a leak, offering faster diagnosis and remedies. Their expertise in advanced technologies, neighboring buildings, and industry best practices provides long-term protection and peace of mind against potential leaks.

Here’s what you can expect from such experts:

• Efficient Timeline and Comprehensive Remediation: When it comes to a commercial water leak, a building leak specialist understands the importance of minimizing disruption to the building’s daily operations. Their approach goes beyond mere repair; it encompasses complete remediation efforts, addressing any structural or aesthetic impacts caused by the leak. This thorough process ensures that once repaired, the building is restored to its pre-leak condition, both functionally and visually.
• Specialized Skills and Equipment: Specialists in leak repair are adept at selecting the most effective materials for water infiltration repairs, ensuring long-lasting solutions. This expertise extends to minor exterior repairs involving concrete, masonry, sealant, and waterproofing, where the choice of materials is crucial for the durability and safety of the structure.
• Pinpointing the Source: An essential aspect of permanent leak repair is accurately determining the source and cause of the leak. Experts in leak investigation excel at identifying the root cause, ensuring that repairs go beyond temporary fixes. This precise diagnosis is crucial in implementing solutions that effectively and permanently resolve the issue, preventing recurrence and additional damage.
• Proactive Approach and Thorough Documentation: Leading experts employ a proactive approach by offering insights and solutions for prevention. They enable building managers to implement measures that reduce the likelihood of unforeseen complications. Comprehensive documentation supports this forward-thinking mindset with detailed records and photographic evidence proving the repairs and preventative measures taken.

By relying on such seasoned professionals, building managers can rest assured their buildings receive comprehensive care, minimizing immediate risks and future vulnerabilities.

ProXpress: Leading the Field in Leak Repair 

As a standout division of Valcourt Building Services, ProXpress redefines efficiency in leak repair. Through an innovative approach, ProXpress goes beyond mere technical expertise, excelling in proactive communication to ensure every stakeholder is consistently informed and engaged throughout the repair process.

Effective management of commercial leaks is crucial for the longevity and safety of properties. Building managers can ensure rapid, efficient leak repairs through proactive planning, understanding your building, and trusting expert services. This solves immediate problems and safeguards the building’s future, underscoring the importance of specialist partnerships in commercial building maintenance.

Contact Valcourt today for a personalized quote and ensure your building’s integrity with our expert leak repair services.

Nov 30, 2023

In the face of reduced office occupancy post-pandemic, increased vacancies, and a cooling residential rental market, building managers and property owners must once again prioritize their efforts to attract tenants. Strategic façade maintenance enhances aesthetic appeal, attracting tenants and buyers; improves energy efficiency, reducing operational costs; and ensures safety, mitigating costly legal and repair liabilities. This comprehensive approach ensures that every dollar spent on facade maintenance not only preserves but also adds value to the property, making it a wise and fruitful investment in today’s competitive real estate market.

Current Market Challenges for Commercial Buildings

In today’s uncertain economic landscape, characterized by escalating costs and a squeeze on capital, commercial property owners face a crucial need to adapt. The commercial real estate sector is navigating a turbulent period marked by significant challenges:

Impact of High-Interest Rates: Rising interest rates have reduced commercial real estate lending activity. With fixed and floating-rate loan costs increasing, property sales are facing financial pressure. Higher interest rates have raised debt service payments and tightened underwriting criteria, impacting loan proceeds and necessitating additional financial safeguards.

Low Office Occupancy Rates: The aftermath of the pandemic has brought about a notable change in work patterns, resulting in decreased office occupancy rates. This change has directly influenced buyer perceptions, making it challenging for property owners to maintain or increase the value of their office spaces.

Navigating a Perfect Storm: High interest and low occupancy rates create a perfect storm. Experts predict an outcome that lands somewhere between manageable and plunging values worse than The Great Financial Crisis. Building managers must showcase their properties as attractive investments with tangible value.

In light of evolving market dynamics, including heightened interest rates and evolving office occupancy trends, savvy building management is more crucial than ever. Leveraging a building facade maintenance repair and inspection checklist is one proven method to stay on top of your building’s needs. 

First Impressions: The Importance of Facade Maintenance 

First impressions can influence long-term tenant satisfaction and retention, impacting the property’s profitability and reputation. A well-maintained façade immediately conveys a sense of quality and care, making the property more appealing to potential tenants and buyers. A building’s exterior reflects its overall value and the quality of maintenance it receives. 

Building façade maintenance balances the demands of aesthetic modernization, energy efficiency, and safety. This approach is not just about preserving assets; it’s about enhancing property value, ensuring cost efficiency in an environment of rising costs, and delivering a solid first impression to potential tenants. 

Financial Benefits of Façade Maintenance

The financial advantages of façade maintenance are significant and multi-faceted, directly impacting the long-term fiscal health of commercial properties. 

Long-Term Cost Savings: Preventive maintenance is cost-effective, preemptively addressing minor issues before they escalate into major facade repairs. We’ve seen cases of minor facade work being put off only to result in significant repair at ten times the cost and contribute to other damage. 

Enhanced Property Valuation: Consistent and thorough façade maintenance increases a property’s valuation. Property owners preserve and potentially elevate the building’s market value by conducting regular facade assessments and modernizing the exterior, contributing to a higher return on investment.

Energy Efficiency: Sealing windows and glass restoration can significantly enhance a building’s energy efficiency and deliver lower energy costs.

Mitigating Safety Hazards: By addressing safety-related issues through façade maintenance, property owners can avoid the potential legal and financial ramifications associated with accidents or hazards. 

The financial aspects of façade maintenance are integral to sustaining a building’s structural integrity, energy efficiency, and overall market appeal. 

Enhancing Curb Appeal Through Façade Maintenance

This first impression often goes two ways: enhancing curb appeal conveys the message that the building is well cared for while lacking curb appeal brings a heightened acuity to other issues. 

Window Cleaning: Including stain removal and glass restoration, these services ensure clear, sparkling windows, enhancing the building’s overall aesthetic appeal.

Facade Cleaning: Utilizing pressure washing and other cleaning techniques, Valcourt effectively cleans various façade materials, from brick and concrete to synthetic stucco and EIFS.

Metal Cleaning: Specialized metal mullion polishing services restore and maintain the luster of metal components, contributing to the building’s visual appeal.

Retail/Lobby Storefront Cleaning: Clean and well-maintained storefronts and lobbies create welcoming environments for visitors and potential clients.

Bird Proofing: This service helps maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the façade, preventing unsightly and damaging bird-related issues.

Incorporating these services into a regular maintenance routine addresses visible wear and tear and enhances the property’s perceived value. 

Strengthening Property Value through Strategic Facade Maintenance

Protecting commercial property through facade maintenance is an ideal strategy for property managers and building owners to employ in the face of commercial real estate headwinds. Prioritizing services like window cleaning, pressure washing, metal mullion polishing, and bird-proofing collectively contribute to a stronger, more attractive, and financially sound property.

With over 35 years of experience, Valcourt’s team is adept at servicing various façade types, offering tailored solutions like facade repair & restoration and emergency leak repairs. Our comprehensive services ensure that minor issues don’t escalate into major concerns. Contact Valcourt for a detailed quote tailored to your building’s facade maintenance needs.

Nov 21, 2023

Reactionary measures have their place. They’re your go-to in emergencies and the unavoidable hiccups of running a building. But wouldn’t it be better to minimize those emergencies in the first place? That’s where preventative maintenance shines, particularly for a building’s exterior. It’s more than just a defensive tactic; it’s an essential strategy for consistently maintaining the aesthetics and structural integrity of your building’s exterior.

The implications of neglecting preventative maintenance can be both financially and operationally burdensome. This article will explore the essential elements of an effective exterior preventative maintenance program, underlining its numerous benefits and emphasizing the value of engaging with industry specialists.

Three Strategies to Mitigate Wear and Tear with a Commercial Preventative Maintenance Strategy

So, you’re committed to staying ahead of the game with preventative maintenance. Fantastic! What are the best strategies to pull this off? We’re talking about actionable steps that can make a tangible difference in managing your property. In the next section, we’ll dig into three key strategies to set you up for long-term success.

Regular Inspections and Early Detection

You wouldn’t drive your car 100,000 miles without a check-up, right? The same principle applies to your building. Conducting regular inspections isn’t just good sense; it’s non-negotiable for your property’s health. This involves monitoring the interior and exterior, from structural components to fall protection systems and everything in between.

Train your staff or bring in pros to look for things you might not even know could be a problem. Put it on the calendar, develop a commercial building preventative maintenance checklist, and make it a ritual. With early detection, you can knock out minor issues like leaks or cracks before they become money-sucking disasters.

Implement a Preventative Maintenance Program

Each component, no matter how small, has a purpose and contributes to your investment’s overall success and longevity. Prioritize tasks based on what keeps your property running smoothly and what items could spell catastrophe if neglected.

Don’t just patch up that wall—make sure you’re preemptively stopping leaks before they can do any real damage. This is a great time to find out why a leak occurred. Like a detective, get down to the details of why the damage occurred so you can take measures to prevent it from happening again. Most importantly, make sure you document everything. A rock-solid maintenance history isn’t just for peace of mind; it’s a financial safeguard for future budgeting and planning.

As a building professional, managing the myriad of maintenance challenges, such as washing windows hundreds of feet off the ground or addressing complex façade issues, requires a level of expertise and equipment that specialized service providers like Valcourt offer.

Collaboration with professionals ensures that all activities adhere to the highest safety standards and comply with OSHA regulations, significantly reducing the risk of liability.

Here are key advantages professionals provide, forming the cornerstone of a thriving, long-lasting property:

1. Safety and Compliance: Experts strictly adhere to OSHA regulations and standards, significantly reducing liability risks and ensuring a safe working environment.
2. Consultative Approach: Regular interactions and check-ins with professionals offer services and invaluable insights and recommendations, fostering a proactive approach to building maintenance.
3. Reliability and Efficiency: A skilled maintenance partner acts as a one-stop solution, offering comprehensive, customized solutions emphasizing efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and, most importantly, reliability.
4. Building Lasting Relationships: Beyond transactional interactions, the ideal partnership is about cultivating lasting relationships that enhance the value and longevity of your property. The right partner offers solutions tailored to your property’s unique challenges, ensuring safety, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and, most importantly, reliability.

The right partnership in commercial preventative maintenance is integral to managing your property’s health, meeting timelines, and exceeding expectations. This collaborative approach goes beyond exterior maintenance; it’s about creating a sustainable, safe, and compliant environment for your property, ensuring its long-term success.

Commercial Building Preventative Maintenance Checklist

Keeping your commercial building in top shape requires regular and thorough preventative maintenance. Our checklist covers the most prominent aspects of your building’s upkeep so you can ensure it stays in peak condition.

Building Envelope 

• Inspect for cracks, gaps, or damage in the exterior walls, siding, or façade: Regularly check these areas to prevent water ingress and structural damage.
• Check for loose or missing cladding, bricks, or stucco: This helps maintain the building’s structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
• Examine windows and doors for gaps or seals that need replacing: Proper sealing ensures energy efficiency and prevents moisture issues.
• Inspect for cloudy glass/window staining, even after cleaning: Clear windows are essential aesthetics and energy efficiency.
• Check the condition of gutters, downspouts, and drains: Ensuring these are clear and functional prevents water damage.
• Examine any exposed metal surfaces for rust or corrosion: This helps maintain the durability of metal components.
• Inspect facades for mold, mildew, or discoloration from dirt or pollution: Regular cleaning maintains the building’s appearance and structural integrity.
• Exterior damage due to birds & bird droppings: Addressing this prevents damage and maintains cleanliness.

Grounds and Walkways

Well-maintained and safe grounds and walkways enhance the property’s curb appeal. This section focuses on the upkeep of outdoor spaces, ensuring they are safe, functional, and visually appealing.

• Check for loose pavers or uneven walkway surfaces: This is important for safety and accessibility.
• Check irrigation systems for leaks & ensure they are pointed away from glass: Proper irrigation maintains landscaping without damaging the building.
• Ensure signage is clean and easy to read: Clear signage is essential for navigation and branding.

Safety Systems

This section emphasizes the importance of regular inspections and maintenance of safety equipment to ensure compliance with regulations and the protection of occupants.

• Schedule annual rooftop anchor & safety system inspections: OSHA mandates annual inspections of anchorages conducted by a qualified person to ensure system safety and functionality.
• Schedule certifications of rooftop anchors every five to ten years.
• Check that emergency response systems are in working order: Ensuring emergency readiness is crucial to the occupant’s safety.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, ANSI, and local safety regulations: This helps maintain a legally compliant and safe environment.

Miscellaneous

The miscellaneous portion of the checklist includes reviewing and updating the maintenance plan for your building’s unique needs.

• Review your preventative maintenance plan and make necessary updates: Keeping the plan current ensures that it addresses all potential issues.
• Document maintenance activities, inspections, repairs, and warranties: This helps track the building’s maintenance history.
• Create a schedule for regular maintenance tasks: A well-planned schedule ensures all aspects of maintenance are covered timely.
• Train staff on safety procedures and maintenance protocols: Well-trained staff are essential for effective maintenance and safety.

Adhering to this comprehensive preventative maintenance checklist ensures your commercial building remains visually appealing, structurally sound, and safe for all occupants. It’s an investment in your property’s longevity and operational excellence.

Ensuring the Future of Your Commercial Property with Valcourt

The upkeep of your commercial property is not just about responding to problems as they arise—it’s about preventing them. The strategies highlighted throughout this article provide a roadmap for maintaining your building’s exterior, with regular inspections, a robust preventative maintenance program, and the expertise of seasoned professionals.

A reliable maintenance partner will keep you informed about your building’s health and the preventive measures they take and consistently meet timelines and exceed expectations. In essence, the ideal partnership goes beyond transactions; it’s about building a lasting relationship that elevates the longevity and value of your property.

Valcourt stands at the forefront of commercial building maintenance, offering specialized services to keep your property in prime condition. Our expertise ranges from waterproofing, window cleaning, fall protection systems, rooftop anchors, and more. Contact Valcourt today to request a quote and learn more about how our services can enhance your building’s performance and aesthetic appeal, ensuring peace of mind and long-term success.

Jan 04, 2023

Your commercial building is an essential component of your success, and it is your command center, public face, and a sense of pride for your employees. Protecting your building is of the utmost importance, which is why commercial building service professionals are crucial for maintaining such a significant investment.

Expert caulking and sealing protect your asset by sealing off gaps and cracks that might result in air, moisture, and pests penetrating your commercial building.

Why Use Caulking/Sealing?

Every building is susceptible to gaps and cracks forming between different materials. When moisture penetrates your facility, it further deteriorates and compromises the structure, opening the door to even more severe problems. Air entering your building causes uncomfortable drafts that make energy bills much higher.

Caulking the exterior of your commercial building remedies the normal wear and tear that comes with seasonal contraction and expansion. As old caulk loses its elasticity, it is necessary to replace it to maintain the protective shield that is your building’s exterior.

As exterior caulking reinforces your building’s protective shield, interior commercial caulking prevents drafts and water damage on the inside. Many areas of your building’s interior need a regular caulk refresh, including the following: 

• Plumbing fixtures
• Expansion joints
• Control joints
• Baseboard and trim
• Tubs and showers
• Countertops
• Vents and pipes
• Areas where different materials meet (gas and electrical entrances, air conditioners)

Sealing includes weatherproofing concerns that go beyond caulking. Just as building expansion and contraction impact joints and materials, so are surfaces like windows. Reglazing window systems with commercial window sealant and addressing skylights and curtain walls prevent air, moisture, and pests from entering the building at those crucial points.

Complete waterproofing goes beyond just caulking windows, and services will include:

• Traffic coatings
• Expansion joints
• Sealants
• Epoxy sealants
• Repellants
• Wall coatings
• Membranes
• Deck coatings
• Chemical grouting
• Glass caulking
• Wall caulking
• Commercial window caulking exterior

It sounds like a lot but bringing in commercial building caulking pros will ensure every external and internal gap gets sealed.

What are the Different Types of Caulking and Sealing?

The variety of building areas and surface types that require commercial caulking and sealing services makes it necessary to ensure you use the proper caulk and sealant. Building services professionals will evaluate the different types of caulk and apply the appropriate one depending on the application.

Silicone and polyurethane calking products are classified as elastomeric materials, as both fill gaps and allow for contraction and expansion. Despite being similar in their classification and general uses, these materials have significant differences, impacting their suitability for different applications.

The most significant consideration is how the materials will break down as time passes. The two primary concerns of performance and life-cycle costs are applied to determine the benefits of silicone versus polyurethane-based sealants.

Silicone

Silicone is an inorganic material, giving it an advantage in areas exposed to UV light from the sun. Because it is inorganic, it is less reactive to UV light. The lower UV reactivity of silicone makes it the superior choice for your commercial building’s facade.

Silicone also offers a much longer lifespan due to its excellent resistance to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Many manufacturers provide 20-year warranties, making silicone caulk vs. sealant the perfect choice when durability matters.

An extended lifespan and lower reactivity to UV light and temperature fluctuations mean a significantly higher price for silicone sealants over polyurethane. Your commercial building services company will weigh the trade-offs of cost and expected sealant lifespan when determining which sealant is appropriate for each application.

Polyurethane

As an organic material, the sun, elements, and temperature break down polyurethane much faster than silicone. Typically, polyurethane’s lifespan will max out at ten years, reflecting this shorter lifespan in its much lower price.

When weighing silicone vs. polyurethane caulk, silicone will always be the best investment for areas exposed to the elements or subject to more variation and use.

Are Your Current Sealants Still Effective? When To Replace

Depending on your sealants’ location, type, and application, they can break down at differing rates. If polyurethane was used extensively in the past, it could break down and crack over a significantly shorter period.

It could be time to replace sealants if it has been some time since you last had them inspected. One way to confirm the need for a replacement is if you see a loss of elasticity and separation from the surfaces. Other indicators would be visible cracks or splitting.

Exterior sealant might show visible evidence of weathering, including chalking, blistering, discoloration, or cracking.

Of course, the best estimate of sealant effectiveness will come from calling commercial building professionals for a comprehensive inspection.

Working With an Expert for Commercial Wall Coating

Your company’s commercial building is essential to the organization’s identity. Maintaining one of your most important assets is a crucial task that requires expert attention.

Every wall is different based on the construction approach, the material used, and exposure to the elements. An established and expert building services provider knows how to identify issues that could become more extensive problems and remedy them.

Proper caulking and sealant application ensure the building continues to serve its essential purpose best. Turn to experts to ensure your commercial building is in its best shape and focus on what you do best, running your business.

Valcourt Ensures Expert Protection for Your Building

Valcourt is the building services provider for property managers and building owners. We have 35+ years of experience providing industry-leading waterproofing, window cleaning, and facade restoration services.

Caulking and sealing are essential components of building maintenance. Contact us at Valcourt today to ensure your building keeps water, air, and pests where they should be; outside.

Dec 16, 2022

Walls are an essential part of any building, and their integrity and strength are critical barriers that prevent the interior from being exposed to the elements outside. Walls also accentuate the cosmetic and decorative beauty of architecture, and it’s the exterior surface that everyone recognizes when they get a chance to see it. Walls need protection, just like any other architectural surface on a building. That’s why exterior wall coatings are so important for commercial buildings and why property owners across the United States partner with building service companies specializing in exterior wall coatings. This article looks at some of the benefits of maintaining your exterior walls, offering readers a summary of the type of service options available to protect your structure.

What are Wall Coatings?

Wall coatings refer to a specialized decorative layer that is applied directly to the exterior surface of a building. Applying external coatings protects walls from the constant bombardment they receive while being exposed to the outside world. Dirt, ultraviolet rays, moisture, salts, chemicals, and other debris can cause building surfaces to crack, break, blister, chip, warp, and erode.

External wall coatings principally act as a moisture barrier and line of defense from outside exposure; however, they also enhance the architectural beauty of a structure to improve the building’s overall aesthetics. Wall coating systems are generally much thicker than a layer of paint, providing a weather-resistant barrier that helps increase the lifespan of the commercial wall. The thickness of the wall coating also helps cover up any cosmetic blemishes that may appear on the building. In other words, wall coatings serve a critically important function of extending the longevity of your wall’s structure and act as a makeup to give your building a facelift.

What are the Different Types of External Wall Coatings Available?

The following is a list of the different types of wall coatings that building services professionals offer to property owners on their commercial walls.

Acrylic Coating 

Water-based, low-VOC coatings provide excellent adhesion and durability. They are commonly used in commercial and residential buildings to protect against moisture, dirt, and staining.

Epoxy Coating

These two-part chemical coatings provide exceptional protection against chemical and physical wear. They are highly durable and resilient, making them ideal for commercial applications.

Urethane Coating 

Solvent-based coatings are highly resistant to abrasion and chemical degradation. They provide outstanding protection against UV radiation, making them ideal for exterior applications.

Polyurea Coating 

These two-part chemical coatings provide outstanding protection against water and chemical damage. They are highly elastic, making them ideal for commercial applications that require flexibility.

Fluoropolymer Coating 

These solvent-based coatings provide exceptional protection against UV radiation, making them ideal for exterior wall applications. They are highly resistant to corrosion and provide superior adhesion and durability.

The Benefits of Exterior Wall Coatings

The facade of your commercial building is key to understanding what type of wall coating is right for your property. That’s why working closely with a building services provider that specializes in commercial wall coatings is important. Look for companies with experience understanding the proper surface preparation necessary for the various types of external wall coatings your building needs. Trained building technicians can help building owners prolong the life of their structure, improve the exterior appearance, and raise the market value of their property.

Protect your Building this Winter with Valcourt

When property owners look for help protecting the physical and cosmetic integrity of their building, they look for a company with industry knowledge in building services that specifically provide external wall coating systems. That is why thousands of property managers around the United States turn to Valcourt. Valcourt is the leading exterior maintenance company specializing in restoration, waterproofing, and external wall coating services. Their company combines over 35 years of building services experience, along with a dedicated team of technicians that offer a no-hassle consultative approach to customers looking for the best solution to their restoration needs.

Don’t brush off the importance of your building’s exterior walls! Connect with an expert at Valcourt today!