Key climate impacts on your facades
The extreme weather conditions in Quebec significantly affect the durability of building facades. Weather and seasonal variations can accelerate material degradation. Below are the key climate factors affecting your facades and the risks they pose:
1. Freeze-Thaw cycles
Freeze-thaw cycles are a typical occurrence in Quebec and one of the biggest risks to the facade. Cracks in construction materials can let water in. When the temperature drops, this water expands and freezes, causing fissures to become larger and eventually weakening the structure.
2. Humidity and water infiltration
Fall and springtime high humidity levels make it possible for water to seep through porous materials like concrete or brick. Extended exposure to moisture can promote the spread of mold and weaken the facade’s structural integrity, necessitating expensive repairs.
3. Windstorms and snow
In Quebec, winter storms and strong winds are commonplace. These kinds of weather can directly harm facades, such as cracks or alterations to the cladding. Furthermore, the accumulation of snow and ice on buildings may increase the pressure on the facade, increasing the risk of cracks or collapses.
4. UV rays
Summer UV radiation can weaken facades, particularly those made of paint and synthetic coatings. In addition to changing the materials’ appearance, continuous exposure can weaken them and increase their susceptibility to weather.
Consequences of not performing regular inspections
The extreme weather conditions in Quebec significantly affect the durability of building facades. Weather and seasonal variations can accelerate material degradation. Below are the key climate factors affecting your facades and the risks they pose:
| Aspect | Regular Inspection | No Inspection |
|---|---|---|
| Early detection of problems | Small flaws are found before they pose a significant risk. Cracks can be cheaply repaired early on, saving more expensive labor that might interfere with your daily activities. | As invisible gaps deepen, water can seep in and erode the structure. A straightforward fix turns into an expensive renovation that compromises the building’s structural stability. |
| Long-term cost reduction | Quick action reduces costs. Expenses can be dispersed over time rather than facing large bills with routine follow-ups. | Small problems go unnoticed, and what could have been a simple repair turns into a structural renovation. The cost of repairs increases enormously, along with the impact on output and the necessity of temporary closures for the work. |
| Protection against extreme weather conditions | By reinforcing weak points before winter arrives, your facades are protected against the elements. Proactive maintenance prevents moisture or cold from weakening materials, saving you from costly damage after the cold season. | Without maintenance, facades become susceptible to freezing damage and water intrusion. Expansion and contraction of materials over time lead to deeper fissures, resulting in larger repairs by spring. |
| Preventing safety hazards | Keeping facades solid ensures safety, reducing the risk of material falls or partial collapses, giving you peace of mind. | Without maintenance, aging materials can detach and fall unexpectedly, endangering passersby and occupants, leading to costly legal consequences and serious injuries. |
Adopting a proactive maintenance approach with Genispec will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure the safety and longevity of your facades.
Genispec: Your partner for facade inspections in Quebec
In conclusion, Quebec’s harsh climate poses a challenge to the durability of facades. The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) asserts that the frequency of weather occurrences is growing, which accelerates the deterioration of structures. Therefore, routine inspections are necessary to guarantee the security of your building and avoid expensive damage. In order to guarantee the longevity of your facade, Genispec complies with Law 122 by carrying out thorough analysis and superior facade inspections, taking into account Quebec’s unique climate.