Whether you own a commercial or multi-unit residential building, eventually, you’ll need to consider exterior building restoration. To help you understand the process, we look at the four most common misconceptions about building restoration, so you’re armed with the truth.
1. Restoration is just cosmetic
The cosmetic elements of a building’s exterior impact the public-facing walls and occupant views. When you improve the cosmetic aspects of your building, you create a sense of unity, enhancing its appeal to tenants and the community.
On the other hand, building restorations address the structure of the building envelope. They ensure a building is structurally sound addressing elements of the building such as:
- Concrete work for parking lots and balconies
- Balcony railing replacement and repairs
- Protective building envelope coatings
- Masonry
That said, a fully integrated building restoration ensures that the aesthetic and structural elements are always considered together. As a result, the building’s appearance is maintained or improved during the restoration process.
2. All restoration work is the same
Every building is different, and therefore every building restoration project is different. A proper restoration project begins with an extensive assessment. Assessments determine what elements of the building envelope need repairs or replacement. The evaluation should recommend remedial repair solutions, predict estimated replacement times, and determine the best plan to save money and keep your building sound. For example, the assessment might find:
- Some areas require coatings such as caulking and sealants to extend the life of building components,
- Another area with specific wall coatings or metal refinishing might require repairs or replacement,
- Major cosmetic details like the masonry might require repairs due to deterioration and,
- The balconies require concrete repairs
Assessments address every exterior component and any threats to the structure to determine the best course of action.
3. You can’t restore historic buildings without sacrificing modern amenities
Historic building restoration focuses on preservation to repair and restore the original building characteristics. However, to say you can’t perform restorations without sacrificing modern amenities is inaccurate. Four “treatments” are used in historical building restoration, including considerations for modern amenities.
For example, the “rehabilitation” of historic buildings ensures that the historical details and integrity are maintained while also considering the building’s use. As a result, the restoration aligns with the building’s modern function and purpose. Your plans might include adding a gift shop at the back of a museum or installing a glass envelope on an existing extension to provide natural light for an architectural firm.
Once again, assessments and consultations with your restoration company determine the required treatment. This often combines heritage best practices and current guidelines that improve structural safety and energy efficiency.
4. Restoration is always a lengthy and disruptive process
Missed deadlines and disruptive processes only occur when the restoration company does not adhere to strict restoration policies and procedures. For example, at WellDone Inc., we ensure that each project causes minimal disruption, provides a safe working environment, and is completed promptly.
Understanding these common misconceptions will ensure you approach restoration with your eyes wide open.
At WellDone Inc., a building restoration company specializing in building restorations for commercial and multi-unit residential buildings throughout the GTA, we have the expertise to assess your building envelope and provide comprehensive, cost-effective restoration solutions. For more information about our building restoration services, reach out to us today.