As a property manager, it’s essential to keep your building safe for residents. Regular inspections of the condition of the building and its structure are key to ensuring long-standing safety. There are several warning signs that you should look out for that indicate the need for structural repair in Doylestown, PA. Sometimes they appear as small signs that can be fixed quickly, and other times in-depth repairs may be necessary. Whether your building is in need of structural repairs, façade renovations, or internal restorations, these are the warning signs you should look out for:

Fissures and Cracks

One of the most obvious signs that something may be happening with the structure of your property is when you notice cracks in the foundation. Cracks can appear both on the facade and on the interior walls of the building. In the most serious cases, detachments can occur.

Vertical cracks usually indicate normal shrinkage. You must make sure that its thickness is not greater than 3 mm; if so, it may indicate that the structure is damaged.

Horizontal cracks indicate a larger problem. In these cases, your building’s structure is at risk. This can be caused by poor settlement or damage caused by humidity.

Zigzag cracks (from one side to the other) are usually a sign of poor settlement and tend to appear especially in walls made of concrete. If you perceive a crack of this type, check that it does not have a thickness of more than 1.30cm. If so, it is necessary to contact a professional immediately.

There are times when these cracks are due to the contraction of the materials used for construction. However, on other occasions, there are structural cracks that can affect beams, columns, or the internal structure of the building. To know the severity of the crack, you must look at its extension, direction, and location. No matter what, if you notice any cracking you should call in a professional. 

Corrosion 

If you notice any signs of corrosion on your building, it’s imperative that you solve the issue sooner rather than later. This is especially important with multi-family homes or condominiums near the ocean. When exposed to excessive moisture in the air, steel can begin to oxidize and other components of the building’s structure can begin to rust. More often than not, you’ll need a professional inspection to identify and correct corrosion.  

A Sunken Structure 

This is a clear symptom that the structure of your building is damaged. Although a sunken structure is sometimes difficult to notice, some signs can put us on alert. If you notice windows are broken or cracked, it could be a sign of structural damage. Additionally, if any doors begin to stick or are hard to open, or an unevenness develops throughout the flooring, it’s time to call in a professional. 

Schedule An Appointment

Did you see any of these signs in your multi-family building? If so, it is recommended that you contact a professional to carry out a complete and in-depth review of the building’s structure. KH Construction will provide a detailed inspection and any necessary structural repairs in Yardley, PA! Contact us today!