ABOUT

 

We’re sometimes asked, “Why should I hire a building envelope consultant?”

In today’s economic climate, risk management and protecting the value of real estate assets are top priorities for property owners and managers.  Water intrusion can be the single most destructive factor to the structural integrity of a building.  If left unchecked, it can cause untold damage – and literally bring a building down.

Building envelope consultants play a vital role in managing risk, and sustaining a structure’s health, longevity and value.  By performing forensic building envelope assessments – a complete examination of a structure’s exterior from roof to below grade – we provide an accurate professional assessment of the structure’s current condition, weatherability and susceptibility to water intrusion. 

Our core services include building envelope consulting for the design phase of new construction and existing projects, waterproofing design and consulting/observations.

As a full-service firm, we work with Developers, Architects, Contractors and Building Owners on the design phase of new construction projects, as well as on the remodel or remediation of existing buildings.  We provide waterproofing consultation and plan reviews, from Design Development through Construction Documents.  We assist in the design building envelopes for new projects, design repairs for existing projects, develop repair scopes, including plans and specifications, obtain bids, oversee repairs and provide Construction Management services. 

As independent observers of the construction phase for both new and existing projects, we ensure that all building envelope systems are properly constructed, and meet manufacturers’ specifications and standards for product warranties.  Our services extend to third-party assessments of exterior finishes (brick, stucco, EIFS, metal panel, composite siding), window and door installations, roofing system design and repair, and the application of protective coatings, caulking and sealants.

 

 

OUR PROCESS

 

Contact Us

Call, e-mail, write, or make an appointment to meet with us in Houston or Ft. Worth, Texas. We are eager to serve you, and will strive to make your experience with us as welcoming, straightforward and simple as possible.

 

Service Response

In many instances, the discovery process can start immediately, working with you over the phone or via email. If we are at a job site or with another client, we will do our best to return your call or email within 24 hours. Formal requests for information requiring research and documentation may take slightly longer.

 

What to Expect

When you work with Structure Shield, you will have a direct relationship with the Consultant or Project Manager most involved with your account. We document site visits, meetings, and project developments, so you always have a paper trail of the work performed. Our goal is to let you know what to expect along the way, so there are no surprises. With that being said, Structure Shield discusses site observations and findings prior to leaving the jobsite so corrective actions may begin immediately.

Our clients often request our presence at their job site to oversee, guide, or inspect the construction or repair process. Our documentation methods include written notes, digital photo, and moisture analysis when necessary (elevated moisture readings, water testing, Infrared Thermagraphy, etc.) Picture and text reports are usually delivered within 3-5 business days, depending on the project size. Larger building complexes may take longer.

 

The Bidding Process

When you request consulting services from Structure Shield, we prepare a written estimate based on our time, expenses and materials needed to perform the scope of services outlined in our proposal. We can also provide market cost estimates for the actual repair or construction work we recommend, based on current labor and materials prices. Our aim is to help you choose the right course of action for your building and budget.

 

Follow-up Work

In many cases, our role in a project is done before the actual repair or construction process begins. We provide a plan for construction or remediation - then a Contractor hired by you (and in some cases, recommended by Structure Shield) performs the actual work. However, if desired, Structure Shield can provide Construction Administration services, and oversee the construction or repair process. We provide independent, third-party assessments and testing services, to ensure the quality of the repairs or construction, as well as scientific testing and analysis to determine whether moisture and mold levels have been adequately corrected.

 

Our Guarantee

Structure Shield unconditionally guarantees the quality of work performed by our consultants. However, we cannot guarantee work performed by outside contractors, architects or employees of other firms. In these areas, our services are advisory. Before, during, and at the end of every project, our goal is to provide professional consulting expertise that results in the highest level of client satisfaction and of course a water-tight building envelope.

 

 

 

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Structure Shield carries the following coverage:

 

• 1 million dollar General Liability

• 2 million dollar aggregate

• 1 million dollar Workers Compensation

• 1 million dollar Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions)