Fall maintenance for your building: Don’t overlook air conditioners and bulkhead by Lori Ann Simon

With temperatures falling and leaves changing color and dropping, one knows winter is not far behind.  Implementing a building maintenance security check list to safeguard your building’s façade and roof from extremes of weather will aid in securing  them for the months ahead, additionally, will alert you to any serious conditions needing repair prior to freezing conditions and snowfall.

DPC New York, Inc. offers basic maintenance tips that can safeguard your building from water infiltration and compounded damage which many times may be overlooked. Chief project engineer, Amit Sareen for DPC states, “The most prevalent problem is terrace and roof drains which accumulate airborne debris and leaves. If not properly cleared, will cause backup, as may constitute freezing in the drains and contribute to erosion of the pipe lines.”

A chimney inspection for cracks and shifting bricks/cap stones is very important. Soot and water combine as sulfuric acid which eats away at mortar and joints. Cracks and shifting in the cap stones if left ignored may egress water to penetrate and travel throughout the building. Also, whirlybirds on top of rooftop vents should be functional, or repaired. They could be compromised if heavy winds or storms ensue.

Many air conditioner units are left in windows throughout the winter. Improperly pitched, may cause melting snow or rain to infiltrate into the sill causing damage along the line.  Additionally, it’s vital to notice areas of ponding water on the roof, terraces or setbacks. Pronounced bulges will alert a weakened condition in the roofing system. Another fall safeguard, which Sareen advises, “flashing on bulkheads and parapets to be bent over the membrane which will keep mounding and melting snow from entering.”

Though Crane’s and Derricks and the DOB are monitoring Codes and Regulations regarding sidewalks, sheds and scaffolding, your building still needs to be vigilant in safeguarding your bridging, pipe framing, outriggers, etc. when work concludes prior to inclement weather. Secure and make certain any overload is removed. Lighting is in place. And anything which can damage your property or the public is protected.

Lori Ann Simon is director of marketing for DPC New York, Inc., New York, N.Y.