Prevention and maintenance of the building envelope

April 18, 2022 - Since their boom in the 1980s, co-ownership residences have grown increasingly popular. However, with a useful life cycle of about twenty years for many of their components, a notable deterioration of the building envelope has been observed for over a decade. This degradation is often attributable to a lack of rigor in maintenance programs, leading to premature wear of structural elements without administrators and managers being able to anticipate and prepare the necessary interventions.

Understanding the building envelope

The building envelope is crucial for ensuring the protection and comfort of its occupants. It encompasses various interdependent elements such as roofing, wall claddings, doors and windows, as well as foundations. Underground parkings, integrated into this envelope through their foundation walls and supporting structures, are also subject to the elements, particularly through the frequent entry and exit of vehicles.

Factors of alteration and the importance of maintenance

Several environmental factors influence the durability of the envelope, including temperature variations, acid rain, constant winds in certain regions, and the simple passage of time. However, the most critical element remains the lack of foresight by co-ownership syndicates regarding renovation and maintenance needs, often underestimated both in terms of costs and timing.

Proactive strategies for directors

For directors of divided co-ownerships, it is essential to adopt a proactive approach to the maintenance of the building envelope. Special attention must be paid to early signs of deterioration, particularly water infiltrations, which can have significant repercussions on the integrity of the structure and the well-being of residents.

Next steps

In our future columns, we will delve deeper into the analysis of the different components of the envelope and the indicative signs of their wear. Early detection of problems, especially water infiltrations, is crucial for the co-ownership community. Acting without delay is imperative to preserve the value of the real estate heritage and ensure the longevity of the co-ownership.

Effective management of the building envelope in divided co-ownership is fundamental for the comfort of the occupants and the preservation of the building. Administrators must be vigilant and reactive, thus ensuring the durability and quality of life within the co-ownership.

For any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Georges Fallah, Architect
Member of the Quebec Order of Architects (MOAQ)
President of G.A.P.Immeubles inc
Tél. : (514) 946 8807
Fax : (450) 478-4932
Courriel : [email protected]

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