April 10, 2022 - Finally, the good weather is here! The frenzy of spring cleaning and the call of floral beauty capture us all as soon as Mother Nature graces us with her mercy after a long winter. This period of renewal is especially significant in the condominium aspect, where the maintenance and landscaping of common areas are of utmost importance. We will share with you some aspects of landscaping that can impact the components of your building's envelope, causing collateral damage in the short and medium term, while highlighting the specifics related to co-ownership management and maintenance.
Inspection of Ground Slopes
Ground slopes are the first aspect to inspect in the spring. Soil settling often leads to the formation of a reverse slope, causing water to be drained towards the foundation walls. The closer you get to the foundation walls, the slower the soil dries due to the shade cast by the building itself or nearby mature trees. To aid drainage away from the foundation walls, it is necessary to add soil to achieve an 8% slope moving away from the walls. The ground slopes should be checked annually.
Cleanliness Strip Around Foundations
Creating a cleanliness strip around the foundation walls can be beneficial. This method involves excavating about 18 inches (45 cm) deep and 12 inches (30 cm) wide, laying down a 6-inch layer of sand, then covering with a geotextile membrane, and finally with rocks or pebbles. This facilitates maintenance and protects against potential damages, such as those caused by a weed eater. However, this strip must be regularly maintained by removing accumulated soil every 3 to 4 years.
Damage Caused by Climbing Plants
Despite their appreciated aesthetics, climbing plants can cause significant damage to masonry structures. Their ability to cling and infiltrate mortar joints can lead to cracks and crumbling. To preserve the integrity of the walls, it is advisable to remove these plants. Often, the affected masonry requires repairs, including the re-pointing of damaged areas, as plants can also prevent the walls from drying, promoting the appearance of moss and the deterioration of joints. It is important not to replace mortar with caulking, except on the recommendation of a specialist. For those wishing to keep climbing plants, installing a support structure, such as a trellis, is recommended. This should be placed at a distance that allows easy maintenance and effective control of plant growth, to avoid any further damage.
Management of Outdoor Installations in Divided Co-ownership: Precautions and Safety
In the context of divided co-ownership, special attention must be paid to outdoor installations to ensure the safety and preservation of common areas. It is essential to maintain an adequate distance between irrigation systems and the foundation walls of buildings. Too close a positioning can lead to water infiltration risks, potentially compromising the integrity of the structures.
Moreover, the safety of green spaces must also be a priority. Outdoor lighting systems, in particular, require careful installation. Electrical cables, often laid across grassy areas, pose a potential danger during maintenance operations, such as lawn mowing. To prevent any accidents, it is imperative that these wires are properly protected. The use of protective conduits is recommended to frame the cables, which should then be buried underground at a safe depth.
These preventive measures contribute not only to the safety of residents and maintenance personnel but also to the aesthetic and functional preservation of common areas in divided co-ownership. The implementation of these practices should be considered an investment in the durability and well-being of the residential community.
Have a great summer season!
Georges Fallah, Architecte
Membre de l’Ordre des Architectes du Québec (MOAQ)
Président de G.A.P.Immeubles inc
Tél. : (514) 946 8807
Fax : (450) 478-4932
Courriel : [email protected]
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