The walls, roof, foundation, and other components which make up your residence’s outer envelope can deteriorate and lead to damage over a short or long period of time.
In fact, your home’s envelope is its primary defence barrier against the forces of nature such as rain, snow, and ice. Thankfully, it is possible to prevent issues and avoid expensive repairs.
Detecting Water Infiltration at Ground Level
The intense freeze and thaw cycles of Quebec winters, and the ensuing expansion and contraction of materials like concrete, increase the deterioration rate of buildings. This can generate problems such as cracks through which snow, ice and water can seep in. Even in small quantities, the resulting moisture can bring about mould issues.
Swelling materials may even cause pipes to rupture or block French drains.
Solutions:
Every spring or summer, carry out maintenance throughout your home. Make sure the drain is functioning properly and seal holes and cracks in the foundation with the appropriate products.
Detecting Issues on Exterior Walls
Whether made of wood, brick, stone or plastic, the exterior surfaces of your property’s outer walls can weaken. Over time, cladding materials degrade and become less efficient.
A sound building envelope is designed to protect the home without being completely watertight. Indeed, the envelope must allow water to flow away through a moisture drainage system and not trap it inside the exterior walls.
Usually, all buildings have them. The absence of such as system, or its ineffectiveness, can lead to water infiltration.
Solutions:
You can install a vapour barrier rated for our climate. You will also need to replace damaged exterior cladding or repoint the mortar between the bricks to ensure the surface remains watertight. Remember to inspect brick walls for potential frost boil.
Detecting Issues With Doors and Windows
Defective doors and windows are entry points for water. Windows that fog badly, let in cold air and have broken seals mean your building envelope is deficient.
Solutions:
Replace these windows, choosing the model that best suits your residence. Ideally, the new windows should be installed by professionals to avoid gaps and incorrectly applied seals. Gaps can also be remedied with materials like silicone sealing tape.
Detecting Roof Damage
Over the winter, snow and ice can accumulate on the roof exerting pressure and friction that can harm it. Wind and rain can also contribute to its deterioration. Consequently, in spring, the water generated by the melting snow may leak into these newly created cracks.
Solutions:
Twice a year, make sure the roof’s eaves, joints and shingles are in good condition. If you find that repairs are required, hire a professional contractor to carry out these renovations.
Preventing Rodent and Insect Damage
The building envelope can also be affected by insects and small rodents. These critters can damage foundations or invade walls, basements, and attics.
Solutions:
To limit access to your residence, cut any branches touching your house. Use sealing products to block off cracks and reinforce joints as well as mesh netting to prevent easy entry, as needed.
Your home’s health depends on the care you provide; keep your eyes peeled and watch out for any signs! There are several specialized companies that can help you carry out a complete inspection.