If you want to ensure that a building is safe for residents in New York City, then you must ensure that the parapet’s structural integrity is well maintained. These low wall extensions not only act as a protective barrier but also enhance the aesthetic appearance of the building, as they are constantly exposed to the changing environment, so they deteriorate pretty quickly. Thus, you must keep it well-maintained. So, let’s get to know what the essential tools and techniques used for parapet maintenance are.
What is Parapet Maintenance?
Regarding parapet maintenance in Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island, NY, you have to schedule routine inspections and timely repair and replacement. Also, apply preventive measures that will keep the parapet well-maintained. A parapet inspection checklist is essential so that the parapet does not have to face any potential problems now and then; it also prevents the escalation of already present issues. Moreover, this is done to safeguard the building’s occupants and maintain New York City regulations.
Essential Tools for Parapet Maintenance
Below is the list of tools required for this work:
- Inspection Equipment
At the Initial stage, visual assessment is required, mostly in hard-to-reach areas. Also, a detailed image of the parapet is required to identify the cracks and structural weaknesses. In this scenario, binoculars, cameras, and drones are used, which help to avoid the need for scaffolding.
- Safety Gear
Often, the parapets are found to be in a highly damaged condition, so it becomes essential for the personnel conducting the inspection to wear safety gear during the hands-on inspection or while reaching out at heights. Thus, to maintain safe access to the parapet, harnesses, helmets, scaffolding, and ladders are required during the maintenance task.
- Masonry Tools
When repairing the motor joints or replacing damaged bricks, trowels and chisels are used. Also, for repointing and machinery repair, a consistent mixture is required, which is obtained by using a mortar mixer.
- Sealants and Waterproofing Materials
If the parapet has experienced any thermal expansion or contraction, flexible sealants must be used to prevent water infiltration; mostly elastomeric sealants are chosen. Also, a waterproof coating is applied to protect the parapet from moisture penetration or safeguard it during the freeze-thaw cycle.
Techniques for Effective Parapet Maintenance
It is crucial that the necessary techniques are implemented at all the steps.
- Regular Inspections
A thorough assessment is done by professionals at nycparapetsinspection.com to identify signs of parapet deterioration, including leaning, cracking, or spalling. Based on local law 126, the parapet inspection for every building must be done annually, mostly for the ones fronting the public right of way.
- Repointing
It has also been seen that over time, the mortar deteriorates, leading to problematic structure or weakness. So, a process of renewing the mortar joints is called repointing. This helps restore the parapet’s structural integrity, safeguarding the residents.
- Waterproofing
A waterproof coat is applied to the parapet surface to protect it from moisture-related damages and enhance its lifespan. Thus, frequent repair or maintenance expenses are avoided.
Final Words
If you find that the parapet has suffered extensive structural damage, reinforcement is required. For this, you have to partner with professional inspection services, who can provide a detailed report and maintenance service as required.
