What Determines Building Assemblies’ Lifespan?
Building assemblies are composites of various materials used in elements like roof assemblies, exterior façades/walls, HVAC systems, and below-grade walls. For example, a roof assembly includes not just the roofing material (e.g., composition shingles or single-ply roofing) but also the rigid insulation, roof decking, air and vapor barriers, and other components under the roof and roof deck. Similarly, wall assemblies comprise not only siding elements like stucco or brick masonry but also the weather-resistant barrier, drainage system or rainscreen, structural framing, and continuous insulation inside and outside the wall.
The lifespan of these assemblies is influenced by several factors, including material choice, underlying structure, assembly design, construction details, and workmanship quality. While materials like concrete and steel are known for their durability, others, such as wood, are more vulnerable. Assemblies benefit from designs that are redundant and forgiving of construction errors. Material selection is crucial, with some materials offering excellent UV resistance or resilience against physical abuse, high winds, and hurricanes. In addition to choosing durable materials and designing for redundancy, the most critical factor in ensuring a long lifespan is high-quality workmanship. Even the best materials and designs can fail prematurely if constructed poorly due to faulty workmanship.
Lifespan Expectations of Common Building Materials
Let’s take a closer look at the expected lifespan of some commonly used building materials:
Concrete: Known for its strength and longevity, well-maintained concrete structures can last for decades or even centuries, as evidenced by the Roman Forum, which is over 2,000 years old.
Steel: Steel is highly durable but can corrode if not properly protected. Its flexibility and higher thermal expansion coefficient require thoughtful design. While some assemblies may need regular maintenance, properly designed and built steel structures typically require minimal upkeep.
Wood: The lifespan of wood varies depending on species, treatment, and moisture exposure. If protected from external forces like wind, water, and termites, wood structures can last for centuries. However, exposed wood, such as façades or shakes, requires regular maintenance, including sealing, painting, and inspections
Brick: Mass masonry and brick structures can endure for centuries with proper maintenance. Tuckpointing and other care are essential for longevity, and like any system, brick assemblies need to be constructed with good design and workmanship.
Sustainability and Material Lifespan
Choosing long-lasting materials is both practical and environmentally responsible. Durable materials reduce the need for frequent replacements, conserve resources, and minimize waste. Sustainable construction practices that prioritize material longevity contribute to a greener and more resilient built environment.
Maintenance Matters: Tips for Extending Material Lifespan
Regular maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan of building assemblies. Here are some essential tips:
- Conduct routine inspections to identify and address potential issues early.
- Inspect for damage from falling tree branches, hail, or vandalism.
- Perform repairs promptly to prevent minor issues from escalating.
- Keep structures clean and free from debris to prevent deterioration.
- Certain components, like sealants, paints, and coatings, have shorter lifespans than the overall assembly.
- Apply protective treatments to safeguard the rest of the assembly.
Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Future with ABB
As stewards of the built environment, we must prioritize longevity and sustainability in our construction practices. By understanding material lifespans, designing durable assemblies, and implementing effective maintenance strategies, we can create structures that endure while minimizing environmental impact. Together, let’s build a more resilient and sustainable future.
In our next post we will provide an overview of what constitutes ongoing maintenance vs. corrective repair (forensic investigation), capital maintenance (re-roofing, re-painting), and predictive maintenance (assessment and budgeting).