Introduction
Fmp Construction & Project Management (part of the Freemans Group) engaged Vertigo Specialist High Access Services on behalf of the building Body Corporate & CGU Insurance Ltd to perform an inspection of the external facade of the Botanica Apartments building at 400 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. This inspection was instigated in response to attack of foam-filled façade elements by bird life and other deterioration issues.The building, 8 floor levels high, was constructed in 1970 & originally used as offices by the National Bank. The building was refurbished 7 years ago into a number of luxury apartments during which 4 additional floors were added and the external façade upgraded using a painted textured render finish and incorporated various foam-filled architectural features.The Vertigo Rope Access site works were conducted in August 2004.
This project draws on Vertigo’s expertise to conduct condition audits of the exterior facades of structures.
Scope of Work
The entire façade was subjected to visual and delamination surveys from rope access. Defect locations were marked on elevation view drawings, defect details recorded on proformas and photographs taken. This data was compiled into a report.
Outcome
Extensive cracking was recorded in render, fibre cement boards & included gaps that have formed between foam architectural features and the walls. In addition a number of foam architectural features had been damaged from attacks by bird life.
Vertigo’s inspection quantities allowed the client to estimate the cost of repairs to make good the observed façade damage & deterioration.