buildingworks

Welcome to Seton Spices

support@dragoncode.ca (DUSTIN MILLER) — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 21:44:21 GMT

Welcome to Seton Spices! A new Nepalese cuisine restaurant in SE Calgary.

Built from bare walls and floors

This was a new build and started from concrete floors with four walls. We handled all the electrical, plumbing, HVAC and all types of mechanical in order to get this space to a 1600 square foot restaurant that seats 65.

City of Calgary strict codes for new builds

New construction has much more stringent codes than renovated spaces. We’ve incorporated LED lighting everywhere, including the exterior signage. The bathroom taps are all electronic, to minimize water waste, and the bathrooms are handicap-friendly with lower vanities. Tiles cover the room for easier cleaning and sanitization.

The gas system in the kitchen was extremely complicated to work with as we had to run our gas piping all through the ceiling system in order to incorporate the stainless-steel backings. That was complicated to do under the hood system that runs the length of the kitchen.

All the tile in the kitchen ceilings is smooth, making it easier for cleaning. That's required by health and safety for fire code. Those panels have a fire rating as well as all the steel doors.

General Features

This restaurant was specifically designed for food couriers. They have their own entrance, complete with a bench and table. There’s also a back door to the kitchen for the cooks to get the food orders in and out easily.

The floor is a scratch resistant, ceramic coated surface. Easy to clean. We put in a beautiful T-bar ceiling with alternating panels to maintain the high ceiling and open concept. All of the dining room lights are what’s called bubble lighting to give the space energy efficient lighting and keep the electrical costs down, while providing a beautiful dining experience.

The one wall of the dining room is all traditional stone with black decorative pillars to really accent the solid amber wood tables. We ended up getting the tables and chairs from another restaurant. We took them back to our shop, sanded them down, and refinished them in a beautiful, black, shiny finish to fit the rest of the décor.

The bar is done in a panel style board, which is very popular nowadays, incorporating the natural color style woods of walnuts and oak. The black accents incorporate with the dining area and brings a warm feeling to the restaurant. The bar is complete with a granite countertop, bar sink and fridges, to serve you liquor or coffee or whatever you desire.

There are some warm elements such as the elephant head and lion. The white horse brings good luck in India and adds some sleek touches to give it a very warm, family feeling.

Kitchen Features

Indian cooking requires lots of big pots, tandoors, deep fryers and several gas burners. Everything in the kitchen is state-of-the-art equipment as well as several other elements to meet code, which made for a complicated kitchen design. The electronic heat sensors control the temperature of the cooking surfaces and will automatically kick in the fan and exhaust system when it gets too hot. This includes a stainless-steel, state-of-the-art fire suppression system as well.

Building Works custom built the walk-in cooler, with a cold top system on top to make it extremely quiet, very efficient and easier to maintain. We also custom fabricated all the stainless steel panels to cover the kitchen walls.

There are 2 heavy-duty freezer units directly on the cooking line and the dough mixer was hardwired to the wall.

All the walls were covered in fiberglass reinforced plastic, or FRP board, to ensure easy cleaning and a waterproof system wall. The floors are a 3/8 rubber compression flooring to make it easy for the cooking staff. Easier on their body when they're cooking right?

Designed for Seton

It's very easy to solidify a lease and get a place that you need. But you need to know what you're working with in that area, to fit in and also become successful. The Seton area is quite trendy, with a Kensington or a downtown feel, deep in the South East of Calgary. It caters to the hospital, movie theatre, and a high-end gym with several gastro pubs. This area has a late night vibe with a young, vibrant crowd.

So the restaurant has to reflect that with a warm inviting fireplace at the entrance, welcoming bar with a slick design, keeping the place modern while still bringing the traditional values of the restaurant. The Nepalese menu consists of rice, wheat, orange lentils, vegetables and meats. There’s more vibrant flavors, using natural products. They make something called Takari, which is a very intricate vegetable preparation. It’s very healthy food. It takes traditional Indian food and kicks it up a notch and a little more modern.

Happy clients

When I met with Ramesh and his family at the opening, they're just tickled pink on how everything looks, the colours, the designs, the materials we put together, and our staff that worked here. I think they were hesitant at the start, as they’ve never done this before, and it took a bit to have confidence in me and the vision I had for them. We did a lot of the finishing detail, designing the kitchen, choosing appliances, and picking colors, décor items and artwork. But once they started to see what we were putting together by the hallway point, they never asked questions anymore. And when we got to the finished product, they were ecstatic. They just said Wow.

Take the opportunity to dine at Spices in Seton. And call us for your new restaurant build.

The impact of windows on your home

support@dragoncode.ca (DUSTIN MILLER) — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 15:47:09 GMT

Installing windows correctly is essential for ensuring their longevity and efficiency. Without proper installation, windows may become inefficient or even damaged due to environmental conditions such as water, wind, or temperature changes. In this project, the windows are located on the shady side of the house, facing a ravine, making them particularly susceptible to wind and rain. The house is 12 years old.

The homeowners discovered interior leaking and water stains on one of the bigger picture windows. When they removed some of the exterior finish around the window, they discovered mold, and they called Building Works for a quote.

I came out to inspect this window and the others on that side of the house. My inspection revealed that the initial window installation was substandard – some of the windows were not properly squared, causing them to list, and the installation detail was poor, allowing water ingress and the eventual, and present, frame wood rot. There were hairline cracks on each window, as these types of conditions are rarely contained to just one window. I advised them that all the windows would eventually suffer the same symptoms. But you never know what’s behind the wall, right? So, I also prepared them for the fact that there may be more issues as each window frame is exposed.

The homeowners had an understanding of construction and how this particular issue could evolve into something worse if not taken care of immediately and properly. Water ingress could affect floors, beams, windows, and the overall stability of the house. They were willing to make the renovation investment now, knowing that it could cost double in a year if not attended to right away. It was decided to replace all the window framing on the whole house, using the existing vinyl windows once the proper framing installation was complete. This was a substantial restoration.

As suspected, there were several change orders as our team exposed more wood rot. Some were shocking. We were motivated to keep the costs down as much as possible, while properly restoring the house.

In addition, we discovered water leaking under the deck membrane, where the bottom of the window frame meets the deck sheathing. This was also due to poor installation detail. It was damaging the deck and therefore the vinyl deck membrane needed to be replaced as well.

The total job was completed in 10 weeks, allowing for each section to be exposed, assessed, and restored. We replaced the window frames, then the sheathing and lastly, the stucco finish. This also included minor touch up restoration and painting on the interior. The job started in September and was completed in October, thanks in part to the agreeable weather.

The homeowners are super happy. This was a large project that was unpredictable and challenging. We explained the entire process, reviewed updates at each stage, the change orders were realistic and expected and we stayed within the budget and timelines. Their Google review says, “We were very happy with the quality of the workmanship and level of service and responsiveness. They delivered a great work product in a very challenging circumstance.”

If you suspect issues with your window installation, call Building Works for a free quote. From foundations to rooftops, we work where water touches your building.

The challenges of a heritage building

support@dragoncode.ca (DUSTIN MILLER) — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 18:34:32 GMT

The Okotoks Donair & Pizza is now open in Calgary! Building Works is proud to be a partner in the rebuild of this amazing restaurant. It is a beautiful heritage brick building on 17 Avenue SW, one of the few left in that area.

But a design build restoration of a heritage building has its challenges. Bringing this restaurant up to code, while restoring its original splendour can be time consuming and expensive. There were several other restaurants previously occupying this space, each with their own renovations, creating an unchartered tangle of electrical, plumbing and piping systems.

The owners were aware that opening walls and ceilings can cause extra work in order to bring the space up to code. The City of Calgary’s building codes are strict, making restoration difficult and costly in an older space. Pair that with an awkward kitchen space and live-in condo loft suites above, we had our work cut out for us.

The old fire suppression system was de-commissioned to make way for a new hood exhaust system. A custom-made floor-to-ceiling wall of stainless-steel panels were installed to fireproof the cooking area. This also included a custom hood fan for the space required. All heat and exhaust from the various cooking surfaces had to be redirected to the roof, using a 20-gauge welded steel exhaust pipe, also known as black iron. This was then wrapped for fire rating as it passed near the suites above and out to the roof.

My previous experience and knowledge as a Red Seal chef helped to make this project a little more straightforward. Trained in meal prep and efficient use of layout, knowledge of equipment, systems, and cookware, commercial kitchen design and what’s required to make a kitchen’s overall performance efficient added to the success of this endeavour.

The owners were ecstatic with the results - passing the stringent inspections, meeting design requirements and staying within budget. They plan on opening several more restaurants and want to work with us on these projects. They have also recommended us to several other restaurants based on our performance, experience and skill.

Whether you are designing a new commercial space or restoring an older one, this is not a quick process. From drawings and permits to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing requirements, and inspections at various stages, it’s complicated. But so worth it! Come down to the Okotoks Donair & Pizza restaurant on historic 17 Avenue to enjoy great food and a great atmosphere. And watch for more openings!

For all your building restoration projects, call Building Works for a free quote.

Harvest Hills Professional Building

support@dragoncode.ca (DUSTIN MILLER) — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 17:54:55 GMT

Building Works was requested to conduct an inspection of a newly constructed commercial building in the NE of Calgary. The purpose of the inspection was to review the building and prepare a comprehensive deficiency list. The building is a two-storey steel frame structure on top of a concrete underground parking structure. Our observations are as follows:

Except for the metal fire rated doors at fire exits, all of the windows and doors are a residential grade and not a commercial standard type. The use of residential windows is not a problem, but in the long term, residential doors will not stand up the traffic of a commercial building.

All of the windows and doors have issues with the caulking and general detailing of the finishes around the windows and doors. Either the caulking is not done, or it is done poorly and not finished well.

Generally the stucco finish around the windows is finished poorly or not at all.

The installation of metal flashings at windows and doors is not done well with poor laps and many places where the flashings are not installed consistently level or in a straight line.

The installation of the entrance canopy panel material is poorly done.

On the South, East and West Elevations there are angled dividing trims to differentiate between different wall finishes. Those angled trims are wavy and not in a straight line.

The stucco to stonework interface is poorly completed

The exterior concrete stairs on the East Elevation do not have a consistent rise and run, and will be a fall hazard.

The lobby panel walls were left with a raw and unfinished edge and nail heads exposed. The finish is rough and not done in a craftsman like manner.

The railing on the stairs and on the second floor walkway has inconsistent detailing where the posts are fastened to the floor.

There are a number of cracks in the parkade ceiling where water is weeping through the suspended concrete slab and dripping on the floor below. This indicates that the waterproof membrane installed on the top side of the structure is not watertight.

There are many locations where the roof membrane is not fully bonded, and the top coat is beginning to sag. Also, there are many seams where the sheets of the top coat are not fully bonded.

There are many locations where the stucco and flashing interfaces were not installed in a watertight manner and is not finished well.

There are numerous locations where flashings are not fitted together and may be blown apart by high winds.

The roofing system installed is not sloped and water is ponding.

The three windows on the west side of the North Elevation show signs of water leaks. The problem is either the windows directly above are allowing water ingress, or there is a roof leak.

Building Works specializes in building envelope restoration and was subsequently contracted to restore this building to its original design standards.

We first removed all exterior cladding and sheathing. We also removed door and window perimeter tie-ins, concrete sidewalks and structural slab membranes.

Exterior cladding and sheathing competed with moisture barrier membranes. Repair door and window perimeter tie-ins, including engineered waterproof detail and hemmed flashing details. New sidewalks, parkade waterproofing, and exterior finishes. Window detailing and finishing touches done with pride and craftmanship.

The work done by Building Works has protected the investment in this building and maintained the expected life-span.

Why do 2,634 people trust us to restore their home?

support@dragoncode.ca (DUSTIN MILLER) — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 22:13:48 GMT

Since 2010, we have beautifully restored over 2,634 homes in Calgary and surrounding areas. That is the equivalent to a new home restoration project every other day! So why do people love Building Works? Let me count the ways.

Your customer journey starts with a live person answering the phone. We want to hear what you have to say. We want to hear what your pain points are. We are sympathetic to building envelope issues and we want to make it right because this is your biggest investment. This is your home.

We schedule an inspection on your timeline. A professional comes to your door. He will listen to your issues and communicate a plan of action that works within your schedule and budget. But more importantly, he will address the source of the problem and discuss options on how to fix the problem to ensure it doesn’t happen again. Then a detailed estimate is drawn up within 24-48 hours of the site visit.

Every week, our Project Managers carefully plan out the working schedule, considering resources, timelines, weather and supply chain challenges. Between Erich Krause, the owner, our Project Managers and our professional crew, we have hundreds of years of experience and can address issues immediately and work to solve them.

We are invested in our employees’ training and caring for their safety as well as yours. There is a long list of training courses that our staff undergoes:

Construction Safety Training System (CSTS)
Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT)
Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)
Asbestos Abatement Certification
Thermographer Level 1
Emergency First Aid & CPR
Fall Protection
Confined Space Safety Training
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
H2S Alive
Building Envelope Solutions BCIT
COR - AB OHS Legislation Awareness
COR - Principles of Health & Safety Management
COR - Leadership for Safety Excellence
COR - Auditor Training Program
Swing Stage Hazard Awareness & Operator Safety Training
Heavy Equipment Operator
Fire protection
Master Certificate in Concrete Repair
Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations

Building Works and its subsidiaries boast a BBB A+ rating, maintain a City of Calgary business license, Worker’s Compensation policy, full liability insurance, and full bonding, if required. We are a proud member of the Alberta Building Envelope Council South, as well as the Calgary Construction Association. Through their monthly information sessions and featured speakers, we stay current on new products, directives, and initiatives.

Building Works is a certified applicator of several high-quality products:

Dryvit - a high performance cladding system for commercial and residential construction
Siplast Liquid Applied Waterproofing Systems - the industry leader in the development and manufacture of advanced, high-performance roofing and waterproofing systems
Alchemy-Spetec products - slab lifting, crack injection, soil stabilization, water stop, and structural crack repair

Should your project require engineering monitoring and support, our building envelope consultants are complimented by longstanding working relationships with all the top Building Envelope Engineering firms in Calgary.

If your project requires financing, we enjoy strong strategic relationships with a number of financing agencies. To help make the costs of building restoration more affordable, we will assess your requirement, make appropriate referrals, and manage the financing process.

When the job is done, the warranty begins. Our general construction work is guaranteed for 5 years. That also applies to any foundation crack injections. We now employ a Rhino Carbon fibre application, which if you choose to use, increases your crack injections to a lifetime warranty. All of our window and door installations come with a lifetime leak proof installation warranty. We top that off with a roofing warranty of 10 years. Your building envelope is covered.

Join the thousands of happy homes in Calgary. Call us at 403-235-5400 for a free estimate on your building envelope issues.

What causes a concrete foundation to leak?

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 15:19:45 GMT

One of the services we provide is repairing and waterproofing cracked foundation walls. We often hear our customers say, “we have lived in this house for 10 years and never had a problem. Why did it start leaking now“? This article will explain what makes a concrete foundation leak and what can be done to fix it.

How is concrete made?

Concrete is a combination of cement powder, water, fine and course sand, small and larger pebbles, and small and larger rocks. The cement powder and water forms a glue like paste. The amount of cement powder mixed with a specific amount of water is what determines the strength of concrete. The mixing of the water and cement causes a chemical reaction and over a short time the cement cures and hardens. The sand, pebbles, and rocks is just filler, and the cured cement glues all of the sand, pebbles, and rocks pieces together.

Concrete is very strong compressively but does not have a lot of tensile strength. By this I mean it can take a lot of weight pressing down on it, but not a lot of pressure pulling it apart.

Concrete performs best in square panels with no irregularities. However, a foundation wall is long and narrow. For example, 40 to 50 feet long and only 8 or 9 feet tall. When the foundation forms are filled with concrete, the concrete is in a plastic state, and as the concrete cures, it shrinks ever so slightly, causing the foundation wall to be in tension. If there are irregularities in the shape of the foundation wall, like a step down, or a window opening in the concrete wall, or a beam pocket, the tension in the concrete will eventually cause a crack. It is not a sign that there is something wrong with the concrete, but it is just one of the characteristics of concrete.

Is concrete waterproof?

Concrete is not waterproof. You need to think of concrete as a hard sponge, and for a concrete foundation wall to keep water out of your basement, it needs to have a waterproofing coating applied to the outside face. Most builders use only a spray on application of an asphalt-based foundation coating. This is called damproofing and will not bridge the gap of a crack in the concrete foundation wall if and when it happens.

Over time, with freeze thaw cycles during winter, the freezing ground puts pressure on foundation walls causing them to move ever so slightly. Because of this movement, a crack in the foundation can begin to leak water.

How do I fix a concrete leak?

If a leaking crack does develop in the foundation wall, there are two ways to stop the leaking. One is to excavate the exterior, apply a waterproof membrane and backfill. This is very expensive.

Building Works has a system of injecting a urethane grout into the crack using a high-pressure pump. This urethane grout will then cure and expand to 50 times its original volume and form a gasket in the foundation crack, making it watertight. BWL provides a lifetime leakproof warranty for this work.

If you find a leak or crack in your foundation, call us right away. We can fix it before it becomes a big problem.

Our Pledge to You

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 15:58:43 GMT

We’re all about “customer first” at Building Works. It shows in everything we do, from the way we treat our employees to how we treat our customers. We go above and beyond to make sure our customers are 100% satisfied with their projects, and we always strive to deliver a better service than they expected. It’s because of this dedication to serving others that we’ve been able to build such an amazing community of customers.

Our Pledge to Our Customers:

We pledge to respect your environment
We pledge that you come first at all times
We pledge to listen and understand your needs
We pledge to build long term relationships based on trust and respect
We pledge to supply value pricing
We pledge to provide the best products and services available
We pledge to provide solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s needs

Our Pledge to Quality Service:

We pledge to fix it right the first time
We pledge to respond at your convenience
We pledge customer satisfaction each and every time

Our Pledge to our Local Community:

We pledge to be involved with making our community a better place to live, work and raise our children
We pledge to give of ourselves at all times

We have:

Full liability insurance
Full Workers’ Compensation on all our employees
Full bonding on job (if required)

We live by our customer's satisfaction, so please don't hesitate to contact at us 403-235-5400 if you have any questions or concerns about anything at all!

It’s Raining! Now What? Tips to Look for in Your Home

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 20:25:57 GMT

Rainy weather can be challenging. Not only do you have to deal with the rain and its accompanying mess, but you also have to think of your home’s structural integrity as well. You're probably wondering: What are the best ways to protect my home from the wet? Homeowners in any climate should take heed of these tips to keep their home dry and comfortable.

Make a game plan before the rain

Before the rain hits, you should go out and conduct a walk-through of your home. If there are any areas that are particularly prone to leaking, you should address those during this walk-through.

Check the roof for holes or loose or missing shingles
Keep the roof clean of any debris – this will extend the lifespan of your roof
Clear eavestroughs, gutters and downspouts – if they are overflowing, they are not able to move water away from your home, garage and other buildings and may cause flooding

If you are aware of these issues and address them before the rain hits, then you will be able to relax a little bit more. You will know that if it starts raining, you can escape to a safe place without worrying about the structural integrity of your home. Keep it dry when the clouds are passing by.

Now it’s raining. What do I look for?

Check for standing water inside and out - it can cause your walls and other structures to buckle
Examine the property for poor drainage and improper grading - water-retention issues can cause moisture buildup in the soil around a home’s foundation
Look for broken, cracked, or leaking windows and doors – this can lead to rot and integrity damage
Check floors and walls for discoloration, cracks, dampness, and cool to the touch
Inspect your foundation for any cracks, uneven settling, rot, discoloration, or leaks – small issues become big ones very quickly
Does your house have a musty smell? If there is too much humidity inside your home, due to excessive moisture, it can create rot and mold.

Wrapping up

The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you feel like your home is getting wet or experiencing any other sort of damage, it’s time to call a professional.

From foundations to rooftops, we work where water touches your buildings. Give us a call at 403-235-5400 for a free estimate.

Why residential building envelope protection matters

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 17:59:23 GMT

When you think of home repair or maintenance, what comes to mind? Carpets need to be cleaned, the garage needs reorganizing and maybe we need to repaint the kitchen. But where does the home's envelope—the outside walls, windows, doors, and roof—fit into this world? It’s not exactly a priority. After all, it’s still standing, isn’t it? Wrong. The home’s exterior not only stands but also determines how comfortable you are inside. You see, your house is at risk right now: It faces natural elements like rain and wind plus bugs and rodents. Yes, that beautiful home needs protection from all of these things so it can last for many years.

The residential construction industry has come a long way in the last century. When you think of early-20th-century housing, what comes to mind are cramped quarters with uninspired layouts and absence of natural light. Those days are long gone thanks to modern innovations that drive residential structures beyond simple shelter and into sublime living spaces optimized for comfort and cost-efficiency. To achieve this goal, builders must be cognizant of every feature that goes into planning these structures. From selecting materials to designing layouts, there are several considerations related to residential build envelope protections that cannot be understated.

The effectiveness of these elements determines how well a home can resist water infiltration, heat loss in winter, and other potential threats from the outdoors. Whether you’re working on a new project or simply want to protect your current one from moisture-related damage and accelerated decay for years to come, learning about residential building envelope protection is essential.

Building life expectancy

One of the biggest benefits of improving your residential building envelope protection is that it can help extend the life expectancy of your home. If you live in an area that experiences periods of extreme weather — such as Alberta’s heavy rain, snowfall, high winds or temperatures that swing wildly between hot and cold — your home’s structure is put to the test. Improperly installed, aged or damaged building envelope components can easily break or tear, compromising the structural integrity of your home. Therefore, if you’re able to seal, repair and replace worn or torn building envelope components, you can significantly extend the life expectancy of your home. That’s why it’s essential to identify any signs of trouble in your home’s structure and promptly repair any defects or broken components. If you wait too long, they could cause significant damage that requires costly repairs and could shorten the lifespan of your home.

Identifying envelope problems

The exterior of your home can be harmed in a variety of ways. Here are some common problems that may need to be addressed:

Cracks in the walls, foundation, windows, doors, and roof
Dampness, rotting, or water damage
Insect infestation
Increased energy costs

Each of these issues has its own unique set of solutions and treatments. However, one thing is clear: Your envelope needs protection.

The biggest reason to fix your roof and walls: save money

It may seem surprising, but the biggest reason to fix your roof and walls is to save money. When you repair a small issue, it’s less likely that you’ll have to start replacing more expensive items. For example, if you notice a leak in the roof and repair it immediately, you may not need to replace the whole roof. Or if a window is leaking water and you repair it as soon as possible, you may never need to replace the window or even paint it. Most homeowners don't realize that debris can build up on their roofs causing damage. Another concern is air leaks caused by worn-out windows and doors. These issues can increase your heating and cooling bills drastically because less insulation will be available for your home.

Your biggest investment is your home

While it’s important to protect your health and the indoor air quality in your home, it’s also critical to protect your finances. Improving your residential building envelope protection allows you to avoid costly repairs that can quickly add up. Roof repairs, for example, can cost thousands of dollars, while foundation repairs can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Similarly, replacing or repairing windows can be costly, and can significantly reduce your property’s value. If you can avoid these expenses by taking proactive steps to improve your residential building envelope protection, it can save you significant money in the long run. Therefore, when you’re planning to improve the durability of your home’s structure, it’s important to find contractors who use the latest techniques and offer worthwhile warranties. This ensures that the contractors will return to make necessary repairs if their initial work falls short of your expectations.

Add value using the latest building exterior techniques

New construction techniques can help enhance the look of your home, while also making it more durable, providing added protection against weather and potential damage. In the same way, homeowners can also improve the aesthetics and functionality of existing buildings by retrofitting with the latest building envelope techniques. This can help add value to your home and make it more desirable to potential buyers.

The Problem with Residential Envelope Protection

The problem is that the average homeowner doesn't think about their home's envelope. Many people don’t realize how much it needs to be maintained or what damage it can cause if not. The prolonged exposure to natural and manmade threats will cause water to leak in and make the house damp. It could also lead to mold and mildew growth, which can increase allergens inside your home. That’s why you need residential envelope protection: to ensure that your home’s structural integrity is sound. Your family deserves a comfortable, healthy home.

Bottom line

Your home's envelope is the first line of defense to protect your home from the environment. It also determines how long your home lasts because it's constantly exposed to such harsh conditions. To ensure a lasting relationship with your house, take care of its exterior today. Taking on residential building envelope protection is just as important as regular maintenance like cleaning carpets or painting the kitchen.

Residential building envelope protection matters.

From foundations to rooftops, we work to protect your building envelope. Call us at 403-235-5400 for a free estimate.

What Causes Foundation Problems?

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 17:50:42 GMT

When you think of the word “foundation” what image comes to mind? Maybe something old, dingy, and spider-infested? Well, first of all, that’s not very nice! And second of all, you have the idea pretty much right. When we think of foundations, they are often something dingy and neglected.

A home’s foundation is essential to its long-term stability and strength, which is why it’s very important to understand the different types of foundations and their common issues. By learning what causes foundation problems, you can take preventative steps to keep your home safe and sound.

If you live in a home with concrete foundation walls (as many homes constructed during the mid-century do), you may have noticed some small cracks or chips in the surface. While these issues aren’t generally a cause for alarm, they can be indicators that there could be larger problems lurking below the surface. It’s important to understand what causes foundation problems so that you can take preventative measures as necessary.

What is a Foundation?

A foundation is a structure that supports the weight of a building. It's also known as a "footing" or a "basement." Foundations can either be aboveground (such as a pier and beam foundation) or below ground (such as a crawlspace or basement). A house's foundation is critical to its structural integrity and should be maintained regularly. Foundations are also important for indoor air quality, as they prevent soil and water from entering the home through cracks in the foundation.

Different kinds of foundations

A concrete foundation is the most common type of foundation. Reinforced concrete provides a strong, durable base that can support a variety of different types of framing. It consists of large concrete blocks or a slab of concrete that's poured on the ground. Other materials, such as cinder blocks or bricks, can be used to build a concrete foundation. Brick and other masonry materials are often used in areas with humid climates, as they're more resistant to moisture than concrete.

Slab – is a concrete foundation that sits directly on the ground
Solid – has no interior walls and is built on a concrete slab
Pier – is an exterior foundation wall that's built on top of piers that go down into the ground. It is used in areas with wet, clay-like soil.
Block foundations - are made from hollow concrete blocks stacked on top of each other in varying shapes and sizes
Post – is a concrete or timber post that sits in the ground, and a frame is built on top
Balloon – is a concrete foundation that's poured on a raised timber surface
Braced frame – is a timber frame wall with a concrete or masonry slab on top
Retaining wall – is a wall that supports soil above it
Timber frame – is a wood frame that's built on top of the ground
Stone foundations - are typically found in older homes. These foundations can be extremely costly to repair or replac
Steel frame foundations - are not as common as other types but are also used as a way to support a home

What causes Foundation problems?

Excess moisture in or around a foundation can cause a wide variety of problems. Some of the most common issues are mold, rot and structural damage. Poor drainage, improper grading and water-retention issues can cause moisture buildup in the soil around a home’s foundation. This can result in the growth of mold and rot in the walls and flooring of the structure as well as rust and corrosion in the framing materials.

Poor drainage - If there is poor drainage around a home’s foundation, water will have nowhere to go. This can lead to water pooling around the structure’s base, which will then be absorbed into the soil. Water that is trapped around a home can lead to moisture buildup and damage to the structure.
Improper grading - If a home is not properly graded on the front and back sides, water can pool around its base. This can result in water seeping into the soil around the home, which can lead to moisture buildup and damage to the foundation.
Water-retention issues - Retaining water in the soil surrounding a home’s foundation can cause a variety of problems. The soil can become too saturated and begin to shift, causing the structure to settle.
Poor indoor air quality can be caused by waterlogged soil surrounding the foundation, which can lead to mold and rot.

Cracks in the foundation are caused by excessive settlement of the soil, freeze-thaw cycles, poor grading, and the load being applied to the foundation.

Uneven settlement happens when one part of the foundation settles more than the rest of the foundation. This is often due to uneven settling of the soil under the foundation.
Structural issues with the foundation can cause the interior walls to bow or crack. This is often caused by faulty construction when the house was built.

How to determine if you have a foundation problem

If you notice any of the above symptoms, you can use a moisture meter to check the soil around your foundation for moisture levels. If you are experiencing foundation problems, you should also watch for any visual clues that may indicate one or more problems. Visual indicators include:

Check for cracks in the foundation, inside and out. Cracks can be one of the most obvious indicators that there is a problem with the foundation. Identifying the source of the crack can help to determine the best course of action for repair or replacement.
Check for uneven settling of the structure - If the structure begins to settle a certain amount, it may be time to replace the foundation. Checking the building permit of your home as well as tracking any renovations can help you determine if the settling is normal.
Check for any cracks, uneven settling, or discoloration in the walls or flooring of your home
Check the basement for signs of water damage, such as rotting wood and mold growth, or crumbling concrete

What do I do now that I have discovered a foundation problem?

If you’ve discovered that you have a foundation problem, the best course of action is to hire a professional. At Building Works, we figure out why the problem developed to begin with, fix the problem, and then make sure the problem does not happen again.

Conclusion

If you notice signs of foundation problems, it's important to address them as soon as possible. A foundation problem can cause significant damage to the home. The sooner you catch it, the easier it will be to correct the problem. If you notice any of these issues in your home, be sure to contact us to fix the problem before it becomes too significant.

From foundations to rooftops, we work where water touches your building. Call us at 403-235-5400.

What is Attic Rain?

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 16:45:13 GMT

An attic tends to be the one place where a house’s most overlooked spaces meet its most important ones. That’s because an attic is increasingly essential for modern home life, as it plays host not only to old clothes and furniture, but also to dryer vents, insulation, ceiling insulation and home security systems. So what is attic rain, how do you prevent it from happening in the first place and how to deal with it?

What is Attic Rain?

A roof’s worst enemy is moisture. When there is too much of it, the roofing materials can decay, causing leaks into the attic. When the attic gets too wet, it gets warmer, which leads to increased evaporation. During periods of extended cold weather, all this moisture turns to ice inside your attic.

When the temperature warms up or we experience an extremely sunny day, this ice melts faster than the attic’s ventilation system can exhaust the accumulated moisture, causing attic rain.

What to look for

Your attic might feel cooler because you have attic rain. This occurs when there’s a lot of humidity present in the air, along with a cool surface, such as your walls or ceiling. While humidity is normal in most homes, an attic that consistently feels too humid can be a sign your attic is leaking. If this is the case, your attic might be allowing moisture to enter the walls of your house, causing the walls to swell and rot. Look for wet spots or stains on your ceiling or water leaks around a window or at the bottom of a wall.

How to Deal with Attic Rain

If you have an attic that is prone to getting wet, there are a few things you can do to prevent it from happening.

Seal the Roof - This is perhaps the most important way to prevent attic rain
Insulation - A well-insulated attic will be much drier than one with little insulation
Manage the humidity – During long cold spells, turn down the humidifier to 20-25% humidity
Proper Ventilation – Ensure that your ventilation fans are working properly and moving air throughout the house
Attic dehumidifier - Another option is to install a dehumidifier, which absorbs excess humidity

Bottom Line at the top of your house

Attic rain is a serious problem that can cause serious damage to your home. Fortunately, it is something that can be prevented by sealing off the roof and properly venting it. You can also insulate your attic to prevent it from getting too wet. Once your attic is dry and properly vented, you can use a dehumidifier to keep any extra moisture from damaging your attic insulation. This prevents your attic from getting too warm and damaging your roofing materials. A properly insulated attic will be much drier than a non-insulated one and will also be much warmer.

The bottom line is this: Your home envelope needs to be protected. Not only will it make your home more comfortable for you and your family, but also it will extend the life of the home, protect your investment, and give you peace of mind.

From foundations to rooftops, we work to protect your building envelope. Call us at 403-235-5400 for a free estimate.

What to Expect from us on Your Building Envelope Restoration Project

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 22:14:14 GMT

Restoration is a broad term and can include many different processes. The specific details of any project will determine the scope and type of work involved in restoring the building envelope.

It is a big job that requires plenty of attention to detail and logistical planning from beginning to end. Your project will inevitably involve some unexpected events. At times, this can be a stressful experience – especially when it comes to meeting deadlines, managing budgets and juggling multiple vendors. We are a trusted professional who specialize in these services, so you won’t have to stress as much about the details of your renovation project.

Whether it’s a small crack in your home’s foundation, or extensive damage – this article will help you understand what to expect from your building envelope restoration project with us as your contractor.

First comes the inspection

A building envelope restoration project begins with an inspection of the building. Inspection is used to identify issues to be addressed as part of the restoration. Issues could be as simple as paint touch-ups, or as complex as replacing damaged or missing parts, repairing structural damage, and cleaning or removing hazardous substances or debris. The Project Manager will also take photographs of the property so the client can see areas of concern. Depending on the scope of work required, it’s important for the contractor and the client to fully understand the issues so they can be addressed properly and effectively.

Underlying causes are identified

The causes may be evident to someone who knows what they are looking for, or they may be hidden or difficult to see. In some cases, they may be subtle or difficult to detect. To properly restore a building envelope, the underlying causes must be identified so they don’t cause additional issues in the future. We apply our vast experience and building technology expertise to identify problems with buildings, figure out why the problem developed to begin with, fix the problem, and then make sure the problem does not happen again.

Client provided with a detailed quote

Once the issues and underlying causes are identified, the Project Manager will create a detailed quote to address them. This quote is a document that comprises all the materials and costs required to complete the restoration. The Project Manager will provide the client with a copy of the quote. This will give the client a good idea of the cost of the project and when it is expected to be completed. The cost of a full-service building envelope restoration project is based on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the materials required, and the amount of time it will take to complete the work.

If required, financing is available

Any homeowner can benefit from professional restoration services, but they can also be quite expensive. Restoration services don’t always come at a convenient or expected time. Sometimes, unfortunate events or natural disasters can cause damage and require building envelope restoration services. Fortunately, restoration services companies like Building Works are equipped to provide financing, making the process of restoring your home easier. If you need financing, you should discuss this with your contractor when they provide an estimate of the cost. Together, you can determine the best way to handle financing the project.

Problems are solved and failures are fixed

Once the work plan has been completed, the Project Manager will make sure all of the issues have been corrected. They will review the work to verify that it has been completed properly. If there are problems, they must be solved. If there are failures, they must be corrected so they won’t re-occur. This is often a time-consuming process, especially when complex issues must be addressed. When problems or failures are found, it is important to take the necessary steps to solve them or the damage may come back and be even more costly to correct in the future. At the same time, it is important to finish the work as quickly as possible to minimize the cost of the project. When all of the issues have been addressed, the project is considered completed.

Work is completed on time and on budget

All restoration projects have a timeline and budget associated with them. Project timelines are sometimes affected by weather conditions, availability of materials, or other unforeseen events. The Project Manager should anticipate some delays, but they shouldn’t be excessive. When the project has been completed, the Project Manager will submit a final invoice, detailing any changes that were made to the work plan and what caused them. It should also include details about the cost of the project and an itemized list of any additional expenses. If the project was completed on time and within the budget, there should be no additional charges. If there were changes to the work plan, the Project Manager will explain why they occurred.

Warranty is provided

Our warranty is your assurance that we will correct any problems caused by our work for a period of 5 years after the project has been completed. Keep in mind this warranty only applies:

To the property only as long as it remains in the possession of the original owner named above
To the construction work that has not been subject to accident, misuse or abuse
To the construction work that has not been modified, altered, defaced, or had repairs made or attempted by others
That contractor be immediately notified in writing within ten (10) days of first knowledge of defect by owner or his agent
That contractor shall be given first opportunity to make any repairs, replacements or corrections to the defective construction at no cost to owner within a reasonable period of time
Under no circumstances shall contractor be liable by virtue of this warranty or otherwise for damage to any person or property whatsoever for any special, indirect, secondary or consequential damages of any nature however arising out of the use or inability to use because of the construction defect

Conclusion

The building envelope restoration process is a critical one, and it requires meticulous attention to detail. It can be a challenge to get back to normal, but it can be done with the right approach. In order to successfully restore your building, we will need to assess the damage, repair the structural elements, rebuild, and conclude the process. It may sound complicated, but it can be done with the right team. At Building Works, we are well-trained to deal with every aspect of a building envelope restoration project. Give us a call at 403-235-5400.

We Value Your Time

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 15:55:11 GMT

Customer Service is #1

When you call Building Works, a real live person always answers the phone. That’s important to us because we want to connect with you personally and thoroughly understand your problem so that we can then take the steps to ensure you understand the process to get your issues resolved.

We schedule a Project Manager for a site visit and strive to fit that appointment into your schedule as best as possible. Sometimes arrangements need to be made for access to the building, or people need to meet at specific times, or there may be time-sensitive conditions or inspections to satisfy. We can do that. If you need someone right away, we can usually accommodate you within 24 hours. Need to reschedule? No worries, we understand that life happens and will adapt for that too.

An email is sent out to confirm your appointment, which includes a bio, picture, and contact information of your assigned Project Manager.

Our Project Managers will then arrive on time or will call you if they are delayed.

You can expect a professional to arrive, dressed appropriately and ready to greet you with a friendly smile. He can assess your building envelope issue with a trained eye and figure out why the problem started to begin with and discuss options on how to fix the problem to ensure it doesn’t happen again. The Project Manager will prepare a detailed quote within 24-48 hours of the site visit.

The contact information of your Project Manager is included in any communication. You have direct access to discuss issues and the progression of your project.

You have choices. You decide who you want in your home. You choose the right contractor who provides quick, professional, expert, and friendly service. Choose Building Works.

Call us for all your building envelope restoration projects at 403-235-5400.

Property Brothers Forever Home Season 6 Episode 12

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 20:02:43 GMT

Bob & Denise

'Bob and Reiki-master Denise had made many happy memories in their suburban home, and they had no intention of ever leaving. The home had a great layout, a large yard with a beautiful garden, and a cherry tree. But the house’s dated oak finishes, cluttered areas, and choppy layout were weighing on the couple. They needed help revamping their home to make it a space with positive energy and flow. We redesigned the front entry, living room, dining room, and kitchen to create a balanced, calming environment in which Bob and Denise can continue to make happy memories.'

Property Brothers Forever Home Season 6 Episode 12

Building Works was the construction lead on this Property Brothers Forever Home project here in Calgary. Removing the wall between the dining room and kitchen opened up the whole area, providing a more functional entertainment area.

Click here to watch the full episode and look for the Building Works crew.

Property Brothers Forever Home Season 6 Episode 6

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 19:55:22 GMT

John & Lisa

'Lisa and John are the type of folks who are always ready for a good party. For years, their house has been the center of numerous family and neighborhood gatherings. But as their children have grown, it is clear there’s not enough space for four adults to try and host a get-together at the same time. We came in and converted their home’s awkward layout into a rustic, open-concept farmhouse where they can entertain folks for years to come.'

Property Brothers Forever Home Season 6 Episode 6

Building Works had the honor of working as the construction lead on a Property Brothers Forever Home project, here in Calgary. John & Lisa's home was transformed into a beautiful, functional entertainment space the whole family can use.

You can watch the episode here and look for the Building Works crew.

Spring Home Checklist: What You Need to Prep Your Home

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 17:31:41 GMT

It’s time for spring, meaning it’s also time to start thinking about all the home maintenance tasks you need to do before the heat of summer hits. There are a lot of things you need to make sure your home is ready for spring -- from cleaning out your filters to inspecting for moisture problems and even checking on the status of your fire alarms. If you don’t know where to begin, never fear! We’ve got a checklist of everything you need, both indoors and out, to prep your home for spring.

INDOOR CHECKLIST

Always keep an eye on your foundation

Like any other type of construction, it’s important to check the foundation every season for any signs of cracks or movement. Make sure it’s safe from erosion, collapse, or leaks. If you have any concerns about your home’s foundation, call us for an expert inspection.

Inspect basement for any moisture issues

It is common for basements to collect moisture, especially in the springtime when the weather is warmer, and the soil is more moist than usual. Check your basement’s walls and floors for any signs of water damage. If you’re not sure where to begin, give us a call. We can check your home for any signs of water damage and help you identify and fix any problems you might be having.

If you have musty or mildew-like scents in your basement, you may have a mold issue. While you can treat mold with some household cleaners, you are better off hiring a professional for this job. We will be able to treat the issue properly and potentially save you from having to remove drywall and other materials in your home that could be contaminated by mold spores.

To prevent sewer bas from entering your home through floor drains in your basement, make sure water is always present in the drains by occasionally pouring a bucket of clean water down the drain to re-establish the water seal

While you’re down there, check the support posts

Make sure they are straight, not corroded, and they’re securely fixed in place. As the weight of your home builds, these posts can experience stress and gradually start to warp and sag. Eventually, they may break, causing even more damage.

Clean furnace and air conditioner filter

Cleaning your furnace filter will help keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently throughout the year. You may also get pests living in the vents that feed air throughout your home. A clean filter is the easiest way to combat this problem.

If you have an air conditioner and it was used heavily last year (especially if it was not maintained regularly), your air conditioner filter may now be full of dirt and dust. This is not only very unhygienic, but it can also curtail the efficiency of your AC. An easy solution to this problem is to change the filter, regularly.

And don’t forget the furnace humidifier

If your furnace humidifier is running too much or too little, you could be wasting money. Too high humidity levels can damage wood fiber finishes and cause condensation buildup on the ceiling, which can lead to mold growth. Too low humidity can cause dry indoor air, causing your furnace to work harder than it needs to and could end up needing repairs sooner than expected.

Check your windows and doors

Make sure your windows are in good condition. Check them for any cracks, broken or missing panes, and make sure they’re installed and hung properly. If not, now is a great time to replace them. This will not only keep pests out, but it will also help keep the heat in during the summer and the cold out during the winter.

Be sure to check your doors for any issues as well. Make sure there aren’t any cracks or gaps in the door that might let pests get into your home, and make sure the door is installed properly. The last thing you want to do is leave your front door open to pests or let your indoor temperature get too hot or too cold.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

It’s a good idea to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors annually at the beginning of the year, but it’s also a good idea to do it in the spring. This will ensure that everything is working as it should be before you are hit with a potential fire or CO situation. But, more importantly, it will also let you know if there is something wrong with your alarms — so you can get them repaired before they fail at an inopportune time. While you are at it, you can also go ahead and replace any batteries that are in your alarms. If you don’t, you run the risk of missing the alarm completely when it goes off. This could be a potential hazard, so be sure to do this important maintenance check.

Inspect fireplaces

If you have a wood burning fireplace, clean out your chimney as soot and creosotes can build up over time, become combustible, and cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Fuel-burning fireplaces should be cleaned once per year to prevent accumulation of debris.

OUTDOOR CHECKLIST

Sump Pit and Pump

Check your sump pit and pump to ensure the pump is operational, the power cord is in good shape, the pipes are connected, and the pump turns on when the float is lifted. Ensure the water drains away from the home.

Eavestrough, Downspouts, Gutters, Window Wells

Check for leaves, debris and any blockage in gutters, eavestrough, and downspouts to keep moving water away from your home. When it rains, the water flows into gutters, downspouts and eavestroughs. If they’re blocked by leaves or debris, the water backs up along the roofline or pooling on the ground. This can cause damage to buildings and property, or worse.

Window wells must also be kept free of leaves and other debris to ensure water can flow through the drain tile to the weeping tile system. They allow moisture to drain from a home, preventing mold and mildew while keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Inspect and make sure all downspouts are in the lowered position and extend at least 4 feet away from the home into a drainage swale or directed away from the home. The goal is to prevent water from pooling up near your house and causing damage to your foundation or siding.

Landscaping

Check for settlement around hardscaping elements like patios, walkways and all landscaping to ensure proper slope for good drainage away from the home. Low-profile drainage is key to keeping your house dry during heavy rain and snowfall.

Examine your property for low spots holding water or settlement of soil around the foundation, under decks and porches, leading to water running back to toward the home. Low spots can lead to serious water damage. They are usually caused by poor drainage and uneven settling of soils and foundations.

Inspect irrigation or sprinklers for leaks and direct all spray heads away from the home’s foundation. The primary purpose of irrigation is to keep plants watered and healthy, however, the water from sprinklers or hoses can also damage the foundation of a home.

Decks and Fences

Inspect the integrity of your decks, including steps and handrails. Deck boards should be straight and true. Check for any missing boards, gaps between boards or other signs of damage or deterioration such as cracks, holes or rot.

You should also check the handrails for any loose or missing parts and make sure that all the steps leading up to the deck are safe and secure. By maintaining your deck properly, you'll keep it looking its best and reduce the risk of injury to yourself or others.

Wooden fences are an attractive choice for many homeowners because of their natural beauty and durability. However, wooden fences are not immune to rotting. Wood can absorb moisture from your soil, wind and rain, which can cause the wood to rot. Rusted metal connectors also pose a risk of falling apart. To prevent these issues, it is important to regularly inspect your wooden fence for damage. Look for cracks in the fence and missing or loose pieces of wood.

Conclusion

The best time to prepare for the summer months is now, and the best way to do that is to do a thorough home inspection. The bottom line is this: Your home needs to be protected. Not only will it make your home more comfortable, but also it will extend the life of the home, protect your investment, and give you peace of mind.

From foundations to rooftops, we work to protect your building envelope. Call us at 403-235-5400 for a free estimate.

Parkade Membrane

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 22:55:24 GMT

Applying a parkade membrane during a heat dome

Building Works was hired to apply a parkade membrane to a storage facility floor, with an overhead slab that was leaking, ruining the exposed floor underneath. The solution is a parkade membrane to prevent water penetration, guaranteeing a water tight envelope and providing traction for foot and vehicle traffic.

After discussions with SIKA, manufacturer recommendations state the membrane product cannot be applied in temperatures above 30C. Due to the heat dome covering Western Canada at the time, and accommodating owners and users of the building, we acted quickly and implemented a night shift team to apply the membrane and not interfere with the ongoing operations of the building.

The parkade membrane is a two-part epoxy system with an applied aggregate. The existing surface is ground down with special concrete tools, exposing all loose material, that is then swept and cleaned with a specific, special vacuum. Exposed rebar is replaced or remediated. Excessive cracks and spalling is filled with concrete patch until the floor is smooth and ready to receive the epoxy membrane.

Epoxy allows a working time of approximately 15 minutes per 15 sq meters under normal conditions of 20C. The epoxy is mixed onsite, in small batches, to accommodate working time and space. It is applied in a liquid form to the concrete floor, using squeegees, to a thickness of approximately 4 mm.

While it is still in a liquid state, aggregate (fine stone) is applied to the top surface. We wear special boot cleats so as not to impact the liquid epoxy. The aggregate is spread with shovels to a refraction or saturation state of approximately 20 mm thick and raked out evenly.

The entire area must be completed in one process. We executed this project in 8 hours for 2,000 sq ft.

In normal conditions and temperatures, curing time is approximately 8 hours. Our team arrived the next evening to remove the top excess aggregate that doesn’t normally bond, using brooms, followed up with an aggregate vacuum. The finished product looks similar to a typical grey, concrete floor, but has an exposed aggregate finish. It is now ready for traffic.

Chinook Mall maintenance

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 22:25:49 GMT

Enjoy many more years of shopping at Chinook Mall

Chinook Centre was originally built in 1960, with overhauls and expansions over the years, it remains one of the largest shopping malls in Calgary.

Between the harsh Calgary climate and high volume of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, maintenance is never ending. One section of the building, the focus of this project, is an area about 1,800 square feet, built with cinder block and precast concrete façade. Over time and exposure to the elements, mortar joints have deteriorated, and sealants have failed.

The grout and mortar need repointing between each block, as well as the sealant, at control joints, and where dissimilar materials meet. If not attended to, the building envelope will fail, leading to further cementitious damages, plus moisture migration through the building envelope and interior damage.

The mortar joints are prepped with a dustless grinder and the surface cleaned with a power-washer, removing all loose materials. The substrate must be clean and free of dust, grease, oils, compounds and any foreign contaminants. We then repoint the mortar joints with repair mortar.

We install backer rod at all control and expansion joint details and caulk these details with an elastic polyurethane sealant. For this project, we are using SIKA 15 LM.

The final step of our repair process is the application of an elastomeric coating. We have chosen SIKA 550W for its durability and compatibility with the joint sealant. In order to meet manufacturer’s specification, a mil gauge is used to ensure proper thickness of sealant application as well as a sealant joint pull test to ensure maximum bonding to joint edges.

This entire process ensures a sound seal that will last for 25+ years, guaranteeing the building envelope is secure and the interior is protected. You can enjoy many more years of shopping, knowing the building is safe, dry and shielded from the elements.

From foundations to rooftops, we work where water touches your building.

Downtown Calgary highrise project

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 21:15:33 GMT

Recaulking tile on a high-rise tower. How difficult can that be?

Have you ever thought about recaulking the windows or tile in your house? Maybe in the kitchen or bathroom? It’s not that difficult right? Now apply that to the outside of a skyscraper tower!

This building centre consists of two towers, with a combined 91 floors. The exterior is a combination of glass and Taivassalo (TIE-VA-SA-LO) granite. There are over 180,000 square metres, or almost 2 million square feet, of tile. Over time, sealants will begin to fail. The two most common types of failure are adhesive failure and cohesive failure. The tile cladding is the focus of this Building Works project.

The scope of work involves removing the existing sealant, foam backer rod, and wiping the joint details with isopropyl to remove all dust and debris. Then new backer rod, and recaulking with a custom colored elastomeric polyurethane sealant is installed. For this project, we are using SIKA 15 LM sealant.

The granite tile is held in place by an engineered metal pin and bracket system, which cannot tolerate significant exposure to moisture, as they rust and fail. The caulking protects the anchor system and acts as a first line of defense. This process is part of the building maintenance program and is completed in 20-year lifespan cycles to prevent water accessing the building envelope and structural components of the granite tile system.

The supplies required to complete this project include

· 50 kms of foam backer rod

· 20 gallons of isopropyl

· 175,000 fluid ounces or over 5 million milliliters of sealant caulking

· and over 22,000 man hours, spanning 5 months each year for 5 years

Weather is the biggest factor to impact the work. We cannot work in a steady 30+ kilometer per hour wind or temperatures below -10 ⁰ C for the safety of our workers and the condition of maintenance equipment.

So the next time you are in downtown Calgary, look up. Look wayyyy up. Sealant maintenance is an important part of any building, whether it’s a downtown high-rise or your home, and we have the experience to provide a solution for you.

From foundations to rooftops, we work where water touches your building.

Winter Home Checklist: Things to Do Now to Prepare for the Weather Ahead

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 18:34:27 GMT

The first frost of fall signals the start of winter in northern latitudes. In other words, you only have a few short months to get your home ready for the long, cold and snowy season ahead. Thankfully, there are steps you can take now to prepare your house for winter. In fact, you don’t even need to break a sweat doing it! Use this winter home checklist to make sure your home is prepared before the first frost hits again this year.

We’ve seen our fair share of record-breaking cold snaps and snowstorms over the last few years. And with climate change getting worse every year, we can expect these conditions to continue affecting our world in spectacular ways. That’s why it’s more important than ever that we do everything we can to give ourselves the best chance at keeping our homes warm and dry during these chilly months ahead.

Check for drafts and seal up anything hole-y

What better way to ensure that your home stays warm than to ensure that it has no holes in it? Start by inspecting the exterior of your home. Look for any areas where warm air is escaping. This could include cracks in the foundation, gaps in between the siding, and gaps around wiring and plumbing.

Check for cracks in the foundation

While you’re examining the exterior of your home for holes and cracks, it’s also a good idea to inspect the foundation. This is where you’re likely to find a few holes and cracks. If you do find any, you’ll want to get them repaired as soon as possible. Not only are they unsightly, but they’re also incredibly dangerous. Cracks in the foundation can lead to all sorts of issues. From excessive moisture, termites, and mold, to weakened support beams, excessive addition of weight on the rest of the building and foundation. Even a small crack in the foundation can lead to serious issues if left untreated.

Drain exterior lines

To prepare your outdoor hose connections for winter, turn off the shut-off valve and drain the water. By shutting off the shut-off valve and draining the water out of your hose, you can prevent frozen water lines. This will keep your garden hose from freezing or bursting, which can cause serious damage to your home.

Check the roof for ice dams

Regions like Alberta that experience snow with above freezing temperatures during the day and below freezing at night are prone to what is called “ice dams” or “ice damming”. As the ice accumulates, it will act as a dam, preventing water from flowing and may cause leaks in your home. To avoid ice dams, be sure to clear snow off of your roof, especially around vents.

Snow and ice accumulation

Keep downspouts clear from blockage from snow or ice buildup. Downspouts can get clogged with ice during the winter months, which can lead to flooding in your basement or home. Also, make sure that downspouts are not obstructed by trees, fences, or other objects.

Do not pile snow or let it build up against the side of your home. This can cause causing structural damage. And when the snow melts, you’re making it easier for water to seep under the wall and into your home, causing rot and mold.

If adding an outdoor element like an ice-rink, provide for drainage away from the home before it melts in the spring. Keep any water that seeps through the ground away from the home foundation.

Check your windows and doors

Windows and doors are often neglected when it comes to winter home preparation. But they’re just as important as any other part of your house. It’s critical that you check the seals around your windows and doors to ensure that they are properly fitted. If you notice a problem, now is the time to get them fixed. Likewise, if you have old windows, it might be a good idea to consider switching them out for newer, more energy-efficient windows. After all, you can’t do anything about the cold air outside. But you can do something about the cold air inside.

Conclusion

These tips are easy to follow and can make a big difference in your home comfort. You can also save money on your energy bills by taking these steps. Make sure you prepare your house for winter now so that you're ready when the first snow falls. With this winter home checklist, you can be sure that your house is ready for the chilliest months of the year and you have plenty of time to relax indoors and enjoy the fireplace while it lasts.

Bottom line

The bottom line is this: Your home needs to be protected. Not only will it make your home more comfortable, but also it will extend the life of the home, protect your investment, and give you peace of mind.

From foundations to rooftops, we work to protect your building envelope. Call us at 403-235-5400 for a free estimate.

Fall Home Checklist: Steps to Winter-Proof Your Home

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 17:37:22 GMT

After a long, humid summer, fall feels like a blessed relief. But now that the leaves are turning and temperatures are dropping, you need to make sure your home will stand up to the coming winter. This checklist will help you identify potential risks in your home and ensure that it’s prepared for when the snow falls, and temperatures drop.

Change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

A working smoke alarm is critical to your safety. Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of your home, including the basement, and be replaced every 10 years. Make sure you change the batteries twice a year when the clocks are changing, or whenever the detector sounds the “low battery” beep.

Carbon monoxide detectors are also key to keeping you safe. This silent killer is often emitted by faulty furnaces and appliances and can cause serious illness or death if you aren’t careful.

Check and change your furnace and air conditioner filter

An easy step to maintain the health of your HVAC systems while also keeping your house dust-free. Change the filter at least once every three months or whenever it starts to look dirty. If you have a central air conditioning system, make sure to keep the area around it free of leaves and other debris, as these can block the vents, leading to costly repairs. Likewise, be sure to remove leaves and other debris from around your furnace to prevent fires.

Check the caulking around your windows and doors

Checking the caulk around your windows and doors can be a quick way to spot any potential water damage or signs of rot in your home. If the caulk is cracked or missing around a window, it could be allowing water to leak into your home. If the caulking around a door is broken or missing, it could be letting bugs and pests into your home. While some minor repairs can be done by do-it-yourselfers, serious damage or rot in your home may require a professional contractor. If water is leaking into your home, it could lead to costly repairs and may require you to have the damage professionally repaired or replaced.

Inspect floor drains

Any standing water on your floor is a major risk. If there’s a leak in your roof, basement, or water heater, water could seep into your floor, creating a hazard for you, your family, and your home. Search for cracks or holes in the floor that could indicate a leak below. Check the floor around the water heater, outside faucets, and any other water source in your home, and look for puddles or damp patches. If you find water, shut off the source, dry the area, and give us a call.

Check the condition of your insulation

To prevent frozen pipes and a busted water heater, you need to make sure your home is properly insulated. Examine the condition of your insulation to ensure that it’s in good shape. If it’s torn or full of holes, it’s time to replace it. If the insulation looks good, you can test it with a thermometer to see if it’s adequately protecting your water pipes. If the insulation isn’t thick enough to keep the temperature in your attic above freezing, you’ll need to add more insulation.

Attic insulation is a key component in maintaining the energy efficiency of your home. Poorly insulated attic spaces can lead to increased energy consumption, higher utility bills, and health issues such as dampness, mold growth, and condensation. It’s also worth noting that if not properly installed, poor-quality insulation materials can lead to additional problems such as poor soundproofing and reduced airflow within the attic space. If you find that the insulation in your attic is damaged or missing, you should take action immediately.

Inspect your roof for leaks, cracks, or rot

Checking your roof for leaks or signs of decay is an important part of preparing for the winter. If your roof looks like it’s in good shape, you may decide to just clean it off to prevent buildup of leaves and other debris. If your roof has signs of wear-and-tear or damage, you’ll need to have it repaired or replaced before the winter weather sets in. Cracks in your roof may seem like a minor problem, but they can lead to major issues if left untreated, like water leaking inside your home. Check your roof for any signs of crack or rot and repair them immediately.

Turn off the water supply to your outside faucets

If you have an outdoor faucet, be sure to turn it off before the first frost hits. Frozen water can burst your pipes, causing thousands of dollars in damage. You should also remove any hoses or other equipment attached to the faucet to prevent them from freezing and bursting. If you have a sprinkler system, turn off the water supply before the first frost hits to prevent the lines from bursting. You’ll also want to clean leaves and other debris out of the area around your sprinkler heads to prevent them from freezing in place.

Before the first snow falls, drain and winterize any inground sprinkler systems. This includes all irrigation systems, hose bibs, and drip irrigation lines. It is important that these systems are drained and disconnected from the power source before freezing temperatures occur. When the temperature drops below 32 F (0 C), water can damage sprinkler heads, hoses, and sprinkler valves, which can lead to further issues in the springtime. For these reasons, it is best to drain and winterize your sprinkler system before freezing temperatures arrive.

Inspect eavestroughs, downspouts, gutters, drains, crawlspaces, and window wells

If you have eavestroughs or downspouts on your home, check them for holes or other damage. If they’re in good condition, you can just clean them off and make sure they’re clear of debris. If they’re damaged, you’ll need to repair or replace them before the first snowfall. Downspouts should be connected to a storm drain or the end of the driveway. If they don’t drain properly, water will pool near your home, making it susceptible to damage. Make sure your downspouts are connected properly and draining properly before the first snow falls.

If leaves, debris and other items are getting into gutters, eavestroughs, downspouts and drains it can cause a build-up of debris which can lead to blockages. Ensure there are no leaves or debris in gutters at all times. If you see any large clumps of leaves or debris then remove them immediately. You should also check for any blockages so that you can clear the blockage if possible. It is also important to clean gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent debris from building up which can lead to clogs and blockages.

Window wells are a great place for leaves and debris to accumulate. If you have crawl spaces or other areas where leaves or debris collect, it’s important to keep them clean so that they don’t become breeding grounds for mold and mildew.

What happens if I don't do these things?

If you don’t properly prepare your home for the coming winter, you risk frozen pipes, burst water heaters, and a host of other expensive and dangerous problems. If water has been leaking into your home, mold could form. If you don’t replace the rotted wood, mold spores could spread to other parts of your home. If you don’t properly winter-proof your home, you could be looking at thousands of dollars in repairs. You may also need to find temporary housing if your pipes burst and your home becomes uninhabitable.

From foundations to rooftops, we work to protect your building envelope. Call us at 403-235-5400 for a free estimate.

Parkade Membrane Service

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 21:13:33 GMT

Parkade Structural Repair, Restoration and Maintenance

Building Works offers parkade structural repair, restoration and maintenance. Waterproofing membrane failure or improper installation allows water and salts to seep into the concrete deteriorating over time leading to structural failure. Building Works works with the property owners, strata corporations, and management companies to provide parkade structure condition assessments, and to provide any needed repair and restoration services. We will also develop a maintenance plan to avoid costly future failures. We provide our clients with transparency and professionalism, presenting the evaluation results, and budgeting recommendations, together with a fixed price for any immediately needed repair and restoration services.

Building Envelope Consultants Serving Calgary & Surrounding Area

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 18:31:34 GMT

Building Envelope Engineering Service In Calgary

Is your building envelope failing? Not performing as expected?

Building Works is committed to protecting and extending the life and value of your building. We have a proven record of doing just that in Calgary & Alberta. As building envelope experts we understand how the different systems of a structure interact with one another, including roofing, façade, below-grade waterproofing, and structural systems. As a result of our vast experience and building technology expertise, we are able to offer unique end-to-end integrated solutions. We serve single home owners, condo, commercial building clients and industrial.

We assess and identify the root cause of your building envelope problems and provide the right solutions to ensure your investment will be protected.

Summer Home Checklist: Essential Items for a Summer Home Checklist

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 17:05:01 GMT

Summer is a great time to take stock of your home and check for any potential issues so that they are addressed before the weather gets worse. There are a lot of ways that you can save money and get your house in tip-top shape. You just need to know where to look. A checklist can help you keep track of what needs to be done.

Check your foundation

Inspect the foundation, basement or crawl space for cracks or abnormal conditions. Check for any signs of movement in the building's foundation. The most common causes of foundation movement are settling due to soil compaction. This can be caused by a heavy rain, the underlying soil being poorly compacted, or an expanding basement due to groundwater levels rising above the surrounding area.

Any cracks or movement in the concrete will weaken it, allowing water to enter. Water can also cause mold and mildew to grow. These spaces should be well insulated and be ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.

Make the most of your windows

Homes with great views often have windows that let in as much light as possible. With a few adjustments, you can make the most of the natural light in your home. Open the curtains or shades during the day to let the sun light up the room. This will help warm it up and reduce the need for air conditioning. Close all curtains or shades at dusk to prevent the sun from heating up the inside of your house, further reducing your energy costs.

Inspect ceiling fans

Ceiling fans can save you a ton of money on your energy bill. However, you need to make sure they are in good working order before you flip the switch.
Clean the blades of your ceiling fan. Dust and dirt can clog up the blades, causing the fan to not spin as efficiently.
Test the pull chain to make sure the unit is in working order. Push the switch to the “on” position to test the speed settings.

Check your HVAC system

Your HVAC system is a critical part of your home, and it’s important to have it checked regularly. By taking these steps, you can help keep your HVAC system in good shape so that it can continue to work efficiently and effectively:

Test the thermostat. Is it reading the temperature in the room accurately?
Check your filter. If it is dirty, replace it with a new one. This will help the air flow more easily.
Clean the coils regularly, as this helps prevent dust buildup
Perform a thorough walk-through of the duct work. Look for signs of clogs or breaks.
Check for any leaks, as this can lead to mold growth

General Dos and Don'ts

Do turn off lights and appliances when not in use
Don't leave the water running
Do set your water-heating system to 50°C (120°F)
Don't forget about your security system. Make sure it is up to date and functioning properly.
Do replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Do check all landscaping and outdoor features to ensure good drainage away from the home

Now that you have a better idea of what you need to do to prepare for the summer, you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the weather. With a checklist and a few hours of work, you can ensure that your summer home will be ready for anything.

Bottom line

From foundations to rooftops, we work to protect your building envelope. Call us at 403-235-5400 for a free estimate.

Foundation Crack Repair Service In Calgary & Area

Sat, 05 Jun 2021 21:33:28 GMT

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It may not look pretty but the good thing is no one will see your foundation once the insulation and drywall are put back. Foundation crack injections are the quickest and most cost-efficient way to repair and seal a leaky crack and ultimately stop the water from coming into your home. Complete foundation crack repair solutions for commercial or residential properties. Call us if you have a leaky foundation 403-235-5400