Frequently Asked Questions

What does a building enclosure consultant do?

A building enclosure consultant like ABB evaluates the systems that separate a building’s interior from exterior conditions. These systems may include roofing, waterproofing, exterior walls, windows, glazing, curtain walls, sealants, decks, plazas, below-grade assemblies, and the transitions between them. Consultants may assist with condition assessments, water intrusion investigations, design and document review, testing, repair recommendations, remedial design, building enclosure commissioning, and construction-phase services.

When should I hire a building enclosure consultant?

A building enclosure consultant may be needed when a building experiences recurring water intrusion, roof or window leaks, façade deterioration, waterproofing failures, condensation or moisture concerns, or premature deterioration of exterior components. Consultants can also become involved during new construction to review enclosure designs and details, participate in mock-up testing, observe installation, and evaluate building enclosure performance.

When should I hire an independent roofing consultant?

An independent roofing consultant can assist when a commercial roof has recurring leaks, visible deterioration, uncertain remaining service life, or requires significant repairs or replacement. A consultant can evaluate existing conditions, help determine appropriate repair or replacement strategies, develop construction documents, assist with contractor procurement, and provide construction-phase services. Independent roof assessments can also help owners plan and prioritize roofing expenditures across multiple buildings.

What is a Property Condition Assessment (PCA), and what does it include?

A Property Condition Assessment (PCA) evaluates the physical condition of a property and identifies observed deficiencies and anticipated repair or replacement needs. Depending on the scope, the assessment may address building enclosure, roofing, façades, structural systems, mechanical, plumbing, and other building components. PCAs can support property transactions, due diligence, portfolio planning, and short- and long-term capital planning.

What is Building Enclosure Commissioning (BECx)?

Building Enclosure Commissioning (BECx) is a quality-focused process used to evaluate whether building enclosure systems are designed, constructed, and tested in accordance with established project requirements. The process may include design and document review, submittal review, mock-up evaluation, field observations, performance testing, and documentation. BECx can address roofing, waterproofing, exterior walls, air barriers, windows, curtain walls, fenestration, below-grade systems, and critical transitions between assemblies.

What is a forensic building investigation?

A forensic building investigation evaluates building failures, damage, construction defects, or performance problems to understand their potential causes and contributing conditions. Depending on the issue, the investigation may include document review, site observations, testing, selective or destructive investigation, evaluation of applicable standards and codes, analysis of findings, and documentation. Forensic investigations may involve roofing, waterproofing, façades, glazing, structural systems, HVAC, plumbing, and other building systems.

What does an HVAC and plumbing engineering consultant do?

An HVAC and plumbing engineering consultant evaluates, designs, and provides technical guidance on building mechanical and plumbing systems. Services may include condition assessments, system performance evaluations, investigation of deficiencies, engineering design, repair and replacement planning, and construction-phase consulting. Consultants help building owners, property managers, and design teams make informed decisions about system performance, reliability, energy efficiency, and long-term maintenance.

What services does ABB provide?

Please visit our Services and Expertise page to explore the range of solutions we offer and discover how we can help meet your specific needs.

What are ABB’s main market sectors?

Learn more here

Does ABB provide construction management services?

Yes. Please visit Allana Buick & Bers Construction Management – ABBCM for more information.

What types of seminars does ABB offer?
Is ABB hiring?

As a dynamic and fast-growing company, we offer a collaborative and inclusive work environment with competitive benefits. Visit our careers page to learn more about the available positions and how to apply. We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you to our team!

What does it mean to be a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)?

ABB is nationally certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) by the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC).

ABB’s dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values that guide our actions and decisions. We actively seek out and support diverse subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers, creating a network of businesses that share our values. This commitment to equity and inclusion has enabled ABB to build strong relationships with its clients, communities, and partners.

As a minority owned business, we understand the importance of creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. We are committed to providing equitable job opportunities, fostering workplace development, and supporting diverse subcontractor relationships across markets.

ABB’s efforts to create a diverse and inclusive workplace have been instrumental to our success and will be essential to our growth and impact in the architectural engineering and construction industry.

ABB is nationally certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE). While ABB’s engineering and consulting services will contribute to MBE inclusion goals, we provide real value by offering direct HVAC equipment procurement and drop shipment through a registered MBE.

How are you committed to promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?

As a nationally recognized Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) we make a conscientious effort to hire employees with diverse cultural backgrounds. Approximately 36% of ABB’s staff identifies as non-white. Of those staff, 41% identify as Hispanic, 34% as Asian, 5% as Native Hawaiian, and 5% as African American. ABB also endeavors to hire more women despite architecture, engineering, and construction being male-dominated fields. 20% of our workforce is comprised of women. We find that men and women bring unique project approaches and problem-solving techniques to the table. 

Several of our division heads and team leaders began their careers with ABB as interns. Within the past decade, we have seen the ascendance of several entry level employees to increasingly prominent (and integral) positions within the company. While this is undeniably good for the company, our principals and upper-level management take pride in fostering the next group of industry experts and passing on (and adding to) our collective knowledge pool. Most importantly, it encourages a more innovative and collaborative culture.

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Do your courses provide AIA Continuing Education Learning Units?

Yes, if the webinar we are providing qualifies for it.

What are the latest tools and technology you use?

Integrating new tools and technologies is part of making buildings perform better. We use the most current software and hardware to achieve high levels of quality while still maintaining efficiency.

We use Bluebeam, Sketchup, MasterSpec, PlanGrid, Revit, AutoCAD and Adobe Build.

What is your Privacy Policy? 

At ABB, we take your privacy seriously. Our privacy policy outlines the measures we have implemented to safeguard the information clients provide us and how we handle and protect personal data. We are committed to maintaining the confidentiality and security of your information, ensuring compliance with applicable privacy laws and regulations. Our privacy policy provides transparency on how we collect, use, and share your data, as well as your rights and choices regarding your personal information. We prioritize the protection of your privacy and strive to earn your trust through responsible data practices. Please take a moment to review our privacy policy to understand how we work to safeguard your privacy.

Where do you have offices located?

Allana Buick & Bers has 23 office locations throughout the U.S., Guam and Mexico. Office Locations – Allana Buick & Bers (wpengine.com)