ABSTRACT
Building managers are often faced with having to re-seal their building cladding joints every 7–15 years. In some cases, premature deterioration of seals requires that the reseal be conducted within the first year of application, and it is not uncommon to find re-seal operations undertaken within a 3–5 year time frame, in particular for cladding systems having face-sealed joints.
Managers are thus potentially faced with funding a considerable expense in terms of the yearly operational budget for a given building. Evidently in instances where generalised failure has occurred, these unforeseen costs cannot be readily recovered. However, managers can insure that the process utilised to refurbish the weather tightness of the cladding subsequently helps minimise the risk of premature failure and increases the likelihood that the restored joint system will achieve a good portion of its intended service life. Hence, a prudent manager will initiate a forensic inspection such that the nature and cause of the failure is clearly understood.
This paper focuses on reviewing the manner in which such investigations should be carried out in relation to recent work completed on a series of high rise buildings located in different parts of Canada. It provides insights into re-sealing strategies employed and on the development of detailed re-sealing specifications. It also stresses the importance of field inspection during product installation.
