FISP/LL11 requires buildings over six stories to file a compliance report with the NYC DOB every five years in regards to the building façade conditions. In light of the potential risks posed by failing façade elements, including the danger of falling components and the subsequent threats to people and property, numerous cities have enacted façade ordinances. These regulations aim to identify hazardous conditions such as loose façade components or materials that may cause harm to pedestrians or property. At Walsh Engineering, we specialize in delivering expert building inspections, accompanied by comprehensive recommendations and designs for proactive maintenance and repair programs, ensuring the safety and longevity of structures.

Façade inspections typically fall into one of the following categories:

Safe: Does not require immediate repairs

Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program: Requires repairs or maintenance within a time period designated by the professional in order to prevent deterioration into an unsafe condition

Unsafe: Has no reliable means of structural support and is dangerous to persons or property. Requires prompt remedial action.

Conducting Inspections: Inspection requirements for façades vary, ranging from visual assessments conducted by architects, engineers, or contractors, to more thorough "hands-on inspections" that necessitate licensed engineers or architects physically examining façade components along every elevation and height of the building. Typically, buildings exceeding six stories are subject to these inspections, with a five year frequency. Our team of experts is highly knowledgeable in conducting comprehensive façade condition assessments, equipped to identify repair needs and proficiently oversee the completion of repairs on behalf of property owners.

Walsh Engineering’s Building Envelope team is well-versed in façade restoration and has a proven track record of success in projects ranging from low-rise commercial and residential buildings to luxury high-rise towers. The façade not only enhances aesthetics but also provides structural support and vertical weatherproofing, making it crucial to analyze components during restoration. The appurtenances of a façade (such as balconies and fire escapes) often experience accelerated deterioration, necessitating focused attention and increased maintenance. Prior to the contractor's involvement, Walsh Engineering emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive pre-construction effort, including detailed investigations, preparation of contract documents, bid process and review, pre-construction meetings, and thorough evaluation of mock-ups and submittals. This approach minimizes costs and construction delays, ensuring the success of façade restoration projects.

With the assistance of Walsh Engineering's Roof Consultants, the life expectancy of your building can be extended and its performance optimized.

Roof Condition Assessments

Walsh Engineering highly recommends conducting a roof condition assessment to gain a comprehensive understanding of a roof's life expectancy and address any immediate concerns. This assessment yields a timely roof analysis report that outlines the strengths and weaknesses of the existing roof system, accompanied by photo evidence, illustrations, and a roof plan. We prioritize clarity and transparency, ensuring our clients have all the information needed to make informed decisions. Our emergency leak responders are capable of diagnosing various issues on the spot and expediting the remediation strategy. Additionally, we offer capital planning services as part of this process, providing our clients with a strategic plan for future investments and expenses to align with both short and long-term budget plans.

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Roof Design and Specification

At Walsh Engineering, we prioritize efficiency in creating our designs and specifications, ensuring that all costs are clearly outlined and transparent to our clients. This enables them to make well-informed decisions. Moreover, we provide valuable assistance during the bid and tender process. Through a rigorous prequalification process, we compile a list of qualified contractors who demonstrate the necessary skills and experience to successfully complete any project. We go the extra mile by preparing a comprehensive summary of the submitted bids and offering recommendations for the contract award, helping our clients make informed decisions based on this information.

As the owner's representative, Walsh Engineering takes charge of monitoring and observing the work performed by contractors once a remediation or new construction project is initiated. We actively foster an open dialogue with the contractors involved in the project and meticulously review the materials and construction practices they employ, ensuring they adhere to the drawings and specifications. We strongly endorse and provide support for training and certification standards for all our staff, enabling our in-house experts to become industry leaders in their respective fields.

Historical properties with architectural and cultural significance are particularly susceptible to the effects of time and the elements. At Walsh Engineering, we approach historic preservation projects with the understanding that incorporating modern materials and technologies can be necessary and beneficial for proper repair and protection against deterioration. However, we always maintain utmost respect for the property's original design and construction, striving to faithfully replicate its unique appearance and style.

A significant number of our projects are situated within designated New York City Historic Districts, which necessitate our extensive knowledge of Landmarks Preservation Commission standards and regulations. Leveraging our expertise and sensitivity, we restore the aesthetic beauty and architectural excellence of historic and landmark properties, while also ensuring their operational efficiency.

Walsh Engineering offers comprehensive assistance in evaluating existing roofing and waterproofing systems, along with providing expert design and construction administration services for the repair or replacement of various roofing and waterproofing systems. Our expertise extends to the following areas:

• Single Ply (Thermoset and Thermoplastic) Systems

• Modified Bitumen Roof Systems

• Fluid-Applied Liquid Membranes

• Vegetative/Green Roofs

• Balcony Waterproofing

• Below-Grade and Sidewalk Vault Waterproofing

Just like other aspects of construction, roofing and waterproofing systems cannot be approached with a one-size-fits-all mindset. The selection of the appropriate system for a specific building is influenced by several factors, such as:

• Building Code Regulations

• Requirements of Owner’s Insurance Provider

• Climate and Wind/Weather Exposure

• Frequency and Type of Foot Traffic

• Intended Use (of Roof Surface and Interior Space Below)

• Mechanical Equipment and Exhaust Units

• Overall Size

• Roof Slope

• Desired Life Expectancy

• Owner’s Budget

• Number of Penetrations

• Roof Deck Composition

Walsh Engineering provides a comprehensive approach to leak investigations, recognizing that identifying the source(s) of water infiltration requires a thorough examination. Drawing on years of experience, Walsh Engineering understands that leaks can have multiple contributing factors. We offer a wide range of services to assist in determining the source(s) of water infiltration, including hands-on and visual inspections, non-destructive testing techniques, as well as more traditional methods such as probes and water tests. Our non-destructive testing techniques encompass various approaches, such as infrared imaging to detect thermal anomalies and moisture-compromised insulation, the use of roof and wall moisture scanners, and moisture meters for impedance testing and assessing relative moisture content.

• Permitting and expediting

• Code & Zoning Compliance Services

• Infrared Thermography

• Forensic Investigation

• Expert Witness Testimony / Litigation Support

• Feasibility Studies and Alteration Plan Reviews

• Bid Solicitation and Analysis

• Special Inspections

• Pull/Tensile Testing