Most components within a building construction have a limited life expectancy. Some materials are obviously more durable, depending on the on-going maintenance of the structure.
Repairs and replacement can extend life expectancy and usability of a building providing that these works are carried out in a sympathetic and professional manner.
Modern construction methods and materials are not always suitable or recommended for repairs to historic buildings that are built with an element of flexibility.
Regular inspections and appropriate remedial works can extend the use of the building and save later high-cost repair works. An example experienced by Decadet during a survey was that a fallen gutter stop-end, due to a rusted support bracket screw, resulted in a complete re-build of a building corner structure, at great expense to the property owner. Rainwater had been discharging down the structure for a number of years!
All buildings require maintenance and costs will vary from year to year as the building ages. It is recommended that an annual budget be allocated for these checks and remedial works.
Property owners usually have a buildings insurance for fire and other hazards, but structural problems due to a lack of general maintenance is a problem area for many owners.
Some problems arise due to repair error, negligence or faulty specification. To alleviate this as much as possible, the owner or suitably qualified representative should monitor works. A failure in proper control could result in additional remedial costs at a future date.
To summarise, all buildings deteriorate with age and weathering. This necessitates maintenance and repair to allow the building to retain its appearance and serviceable condition. The external fabric should be thoroughly inspected for potential problems, a list of maintenance issues compiled and carried out over a planned economic period to avoid accelerated deterioration.