Exterior Facades & Cladding Systems
Allana Buick & Bers, Inc. (ABB) provides exterior façade and cladding consulting services for wood-frame, steel-frame, and other building types. Our team includes Registered Exterior Wall Consultants (REWCs) with experience evaluating exterior wall assemblies, waterproofing systems, and building enclosure performance.
Our expertise includes:
- Cement Plaster, drainage plane plaster with drain mat
- Fiber cement board siding
- Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC)
- Metal panels, Insulated metal panels
- Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS)
- Wood, masonry, veneer tile, dimension stone
- Continuous insulation
- Rain screen stucco with air barrier
- Perfect barrier wall systems
- Concealed barrier wall systems
- Drainage plane wall systems
- Rain screen wall systems
- Pressure equalized rain screen wall systems
Stucco / EIFS / Cement Plaster
ABB provides consulting services for stucco, EIFS, and cement plaster cladding systems, with particular expertise in waterproofing, drainage, and integration with adjacent building enclosure components.
Our professionals contribute to industry education through AIA continuing education programs, technical papers, and presentations. This experience supports our approach to evaluating cladding performance, identifying potential deficiencies, and developing appropriate design and repair recommendations.
Metal Wall Systems
ABB provides consulting services for metal wall systems, including metal shingles, corrugated panels, composite panels, and specialty materials such as zinc, copper, stainless steel, Corten steel, and titanium.
Our expertise includes waterproofing integration, sheet metal flashing design and detailing, and coordination of metal wall assemblies with windows, doors, and adjacent building enclosure systems.
What are common exterior façade problems?
Common problems include water intrusion, deteriorated sealants, cracked cladding, failed glazing seals, corrosion, and deficiencies at façade transitions and penetrations. These conditions can affect building performance and may require further investigation.
When should a building undergo a façade condition assessment?
A façade condition assessment may be appropriate when a building exhibits visible deterioration, recurring leaks, loose materials, or other performance concerns. Assessments can also support preventive maintenance, capital improvement planning, and façade rehabilitation.
How are exterior façade leaks investigated?
Façade leak investigations may involve visual observations, document reviews, moisture assessments, and controlled water testing. These methods help identify potential water entry paths and contributing conditions.
Can existing exterior façades be repaired instead of replaced?
Depending on the condition of the façade, targeted repairs or rehabilitation may be practical alternatives to full replacement. ABB evaluates existing conditions and develops repair recommendations based on observed deficiencies, performance requirements, and project objectives.
