External Façade Make safe Inspection of A Listed Heritage Building
Introduction
Vertigo Specialist High Access Services (Vertigo) were engaged by Renato U Maccarone & Associates (Architects) on behalf of the building owner, Mutual Consolidated Investments, to perform a makesafe inspection to the external façade of the commercial building at 253 Flinders Lane.
The building, a listed heritage structure, is 5 floor levels in height. The majority of the structure is brickwork with an external façade comprising a rendered finish. The Flinders Lane elevation displays decorative architectural features such as an upper level entablature, pateras, festoons etc. An upper floor level has been added some time after the initial construction that is of reinforced concrete with a render finish. Access issues were complicated by the use of ground level areas below the building by local businesses, necessitating performance of the works on Sundays and/or public holidays. Site works were conducted February-April 2002 and included visual inspection and removal of dangerously loose façade materials using a combination of rope access and elevated work platforms as appropriate.Scope of Work
The entire external façade was subjected to a visual inspection and removal of any dangerously loose façade materials using a combination of rope access and elevated work platforms as appropriate. Defect types were recorded on elevation view drawings and photographs taken. The findings from the site survey were compiled into a report and included outline of an appropriate repair strategy.
Outcome
Vertigo successfully completed the makesafe inspection and a report was issued reviewing in detail the condition of the façade and remedial options.