Structural Condition
Harbeck-Bergheim House is a stone masonry walled building with wood-framed roof and floor structures. Floor plans and elevations and a conditions report prepared by CSC in 1991 were available during this assessment; however, no structural drawings, original or otherwise, were available. The structural systems are described below based on our site observations and documentation of the structure. Foundation Harbeck-Bergheim House has a combination of coursed stone and rubble stone exterior bearing walls. The interior basement bearing walls are 3-wythe brick masonry that is constructed of red-clay brick units that are slightly larger than today's standard brick size. The foundation was not exposed or observed below grade, so the depth and presence of footings are unknown, however they are likely continuous masonry strip footings. Overall, the foundation is in good condition with no indications of wide-spread settlement such as cracking in the walls above grade. Efflorescence was evident at the interior faces of the basement walls that is evidence of past water infiltration (Figure 1-59). The basement slab slopes near the southeast corner of the building, however this was likely intentional to allow the slab to drain and is not indicative of structural settlement. An exterior building condition evaluation was prepared by CSC in February 1991. Many of the eroded mortar joints and water infiltration issues identified in the report appear to have been addressed since the report was issued. Roof Framing The house has a steep hip roof with large, low-sloped eaves with hip-roofed dormers on three sides and a flat roof overhang over the front porch. The roof consists of 1 ¼” board sheathing supported by roof framing of 1 ½” x 5 ½” rafters spaced at 16”. The ceiling framing of the attic consisted of 2x4 joists spaced at 16.” Blown in insulation was evident above the ceiling, indicating that the structure currently has a cold roof above the occupied space.
The roof appears to be in good condition with no sagging or displacement to indicate any structural deficiencies. The areas of observed wood framing appear to be in good physical condition showing no signs of deterioration.
Figure 1-64. Efflorescence on basement walls, 2020 (source: JVA)
3-30
Harbeck-Bergheim House
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator