 Independent
third-party inspections are in the best interest
of ALL parties involved, including homeowners, building
owners, general contractors, sub-contractors, code
officials and even EIFS applicators. The purpose
of these inspections is to assure that the exterior
cladding system is installed in compliance with manufacturers'
recommended details and specifications. Additionally,
it is imperative that all of the components of the
structure that interface with the EIF system be properly
designed and installed to prevent moisture intrusion
and the potential resulting damage.
Third-Party inspections are
also required by international and local code in
some circumstances as well as by many municipalities
throughout the United States, through local ordinances
and/or building codes. Additionally, many building
owners engage our third-party inspection services
for their own “peace of mind”.
The process begins with a review of any and all
related construction documents including drawings
and specifications. Document review is followed by
a pre-application meeting, which may require the
presence of some or all of the following individuals:
The building owner, general contractor, a representative
of the EIFS manufacturer, as well as any other relevant
sub-contractors to discuss the proper interface of
the EIF System with other construction components
and materials on the project. It is necessary for
EnviroSpec, Inc. to receive copies of all project
plans and specifications for review prior to the
meeting.
As with repair monitoring,
all site visits are randomly scheduled. This allows
our inspectors to observe “real
working” conditions. Each site visit is photo
documented for inclusion in a final report. Any “problems” observed
at the time of inspection are documented and are
expected to be corrected along with photo and written
documentation of corrective action by the contractor
prior to our next site visit. The frequency and fees
for these site visits are determined by the scope
of work to be performed. Additionally, every attempt
is made to maintain an open line of communication
with the repair contractor throughout the repair
process. This helps to avoid redundant site visits.
At minimum, monitoring of new construction EIFS
applications requires site visits at the following
specific stages of the application:
- Inspection of substrate, appropriate flashing
and installation of weather barrier.
- Observation of back wrapping procedures and installation
of the insulation boards.
- Application of the reinforcing mesh and base
coat.
- Application of the finish
coat.
- Joint preparation and installation of the sealants.
Inspectors will also note any additional observations
believed to be relevant to the proper installation
and performance of the EIF System. Upon completion
of the installation, EnviroSpec, Inc. will submit
a narrative and photographic report of the inspection. |
