Mid Atlantic Real Estate Journal — Professional Services — November 22 - December 5, 2013 — A A rchitect
www.marejournal.com
By Kurt M. Kalafsky, Aztec Architects, LLC Post Storm Preliminary Building Assessment
A
fter any major storm or weather event it is important to do a
immediately addressed by a licensed plumber. 9- Verify there is no natu- ral gas smell in air inside and around the outside of the structure. If in doubt, call the local utility company to inspect for leaks. 10- Is the above ground heating oil tank intact and connected properly? Any loose or broken connections should be corrected immediately. 11- Is the below grade oil tank still below grade or has is risen/floated to the surface? If your tank shows any sign of movement call you Oil Supply
Company immediately. 12- Is the exterior siding and/or any exterior building skin intact? Loose or missing façade materials could allow water infiltration which could harbor mold growth. 13- Is your roof sheathing damaged by falling trees or debris? If so your structure may have been impacted by a tree, limb or other debris. Also inspect your attic in that area for possible hidden structural damage. 14- Are all roof shingles in place and lying down? Loose or missing shingles could allow
water infiltration which could harbor mold growth. 15- Are roof flashings intact and in place? Loose or missing flashings could allow water infiltration which could harbor mold growth. 16- Is the Chimney leaning or does it appear to be dis- turbed by flying debris? If so it must be fixed before a fireplace and/or your boiler is utilized. 17- Inspect your rain gutters, window shutters, canopies, porticos and window awnings to determine if they are safe and securely attached. This is just a sampling list of
things to look for after a storm. Every structure is different. If you are not sure regarding any issue it is always a good idea to have it checked out. A LicensedArchitect or Licensed Building Inspector have expert knowledge and are authorized to give your building a proper evaluation. A thorough evalu- ation is a good investment to protect your most valuable asset. Kurt, Aztec Architects is one of the original founders and chief technology officer of TheAztec Corporation and Aztec Architects, LLC. n
visual evalu- ation of your structure for any possible damage that may need to be addressed. The following list is a sam- ple of some of the primary
Kurt M. Kalafsky
areas of concern that may need further evaluation for possible remedy before further damage occurs: 1- The electrical system should be checked by a licensed electrician before turning the power on. This is to insure all components are dry and will function without causing any shorts and reducing the pos- sibility of hazardous live wires which could cause electrocu- tion or fire. 2- The exterior of the struc- ture should be surveyed for any impact damage caused by windblown and water born debris. Damage to the exterior skin could allowwater infiltra- tion which could harbor mold growth. 3- Check to see if the struc- ture is undermined and/or unstable. Sink holes near or along your foundation will require immediate further investigation for structural stability. 4- Look for foundation cracks. New cracks in your foundation are a sign of ex- cessive stress and should be investigated further to determine the appropriate remedy. 5-Are anywalls out of plumb – This could indicate struc- tural damage and should be investigated further ASAP. 6- Check for wet drywall, carpeting, furniture, insu- lation, etc. They should be removed at the earliest pos- sible time in order to avoid mold growth. Wet drywall is a breeding ground for po- tentially harmful molds and bacteria. 7- Check wood flooring to insure it is level and not heaving in any way. A heav- ing wood floor indicates water infiltration and hidden mold which should be removed im- mediately. 8- Inspect all supply and waste water piping in order to insure no leaks are present. Any sign of leaks should be
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