BUILDING ENVELOPE CONSULTING/DESIGN

Everyone knows that leaks and other building envelope problems can be a big headache.

We are focused on improving performance and reducing risk.

GRLA evaluates buildings to document existing conditions, find the cause of building envelope deterioration and failures, and develop an appropriate course of remedial action. We are restoration experts and our goal is to generate reliable, high-value solutions for existing building issues and reduce future problems. Building conditions reviewed may include: Roof system | Exterior wall system (cladding, sealants, etc.) | All associated flashings | Transitions in building materials | Balcony connections | Windows and Doors

    • Review available documents relevant to the building envelope construction

      • Architectural elevations, sections, and detail drawings, previous studies, construction documents, leak history reports, and maintenance repair documentation to better understand existing conditions

    • On-site visual inspection and exploratory openings

      • Visual observations from the ground, building interior, roof, and floor levels

      • Exploratory opening to observe concealed conditions and configurations to supplement the exterior visual observations and gain a better understanding of potential leak sources

      • A summary report is compiled outlining the findings of the of the document review, on-site visual inspection, and exploratory work

    • May be performed at representative areas in a controlled manner to test select building envelope components (exterior walls and windows) near reported leak areas to identify the potential source(s) of the leaks

    • Preliminary design

    • Code review

    • Design calculations

    • Construction drawings

    • Specifications

    • Cost estimating

    • Permitting applications and presentation materials, as needed. Assume a permit from Inspectional Services will be required

    • Provide 100% bid documents

    • Pre-bid conference

    • Pre-construction meeting

    • Periodic site visits

    • Design team to perform site visit to confirm substantial completion

    • Perform a final walkthrough to confirm all punch list items are completed

    • City of Boston Façade Ordinance Code 9-9.12: Inspection Of Exterior Walls And Appurtenances Of Buildings Requiring Periodic Inspection, which mandates that buildings classified as high-rise structures be inspected every five years for soundness.