The Façade Remediation Process

Façade remediation is rarely a single-stage project. The work required will depend on the building, the existing façade construction, the issues identified and the extent of any necessary repairs or replacement.

Projects commonly progress through a number of stages, from initial assessment and investigation through to design, remedial works and completion.

Assessment → Investigation → Remediation Strategy → Design → Remedial Works → Completion

1. Initial Assessment

The first stage is to establish why there is a concern with the façade.

The initial assessment helps determine whether further investigation is required and what information is needed before decisions can be made.

Common Triggers

A façade condition survey
An EWS1 assessment
A PAS 9980 FRAEW assessment
A fire-safety assessment
Water ingress
Visible façade defects
Structural concerns
Previous inspection findings
Planned refurbishment

Related Services

Façade Condition Survey
EWS1 Assessment
PAS 9980 FRAEW Assessment
Façade Defect Investigation
Structural Façade Assessment

2. Investigate the Existing Façade

Further investigation may be required to establish what is actually present within the façade and understand its construction, condition and performance.

What is Investigated

Cladding materials
Insulation
Sheathing
Membranes
Cavity barriers
Fixings and brackets
Substrates
Interfaces between systems

Related Services

Intrusive & Opening-Up Surveys
Cladding Condition Survey
Façade Condition Survey

3. Remediation Strategy

Once sufficient evidence has been gathered, a remediation strategy can establish what needs to be addressed and how.

Key Considerations

Repair or replacement
Fire performance
Structural requirements
Thermal performance
Weatherproofing
Access requirements
Construction sequencing
Regulatory requirements

Related Services

Façade Design & Remediation Strategy
Wall Systems
Remediation & Compliance Services

4. Design

The selected remediation approach can then be developed into a technical design suitable for the proposed works.

Design Includes

Façade system design
Construction details
Specifications
Material selection
Fire-safety requirements
Structural requirements
Interface details
Installation requirements

Related Services

Façade Design & Remediation Strategy
Rainscreen Cladding
Render & External Wall Insulation
Curtain Walling & Glazing

5. Remedial Works

Once the strategy and design have been established, the project can progress to delivery of the agreed remedial works.

Works Involve:

Removal of defective materials
Façade repairs
Component replacement
New façade systems
Fire-safety improvements
Weatherproofing
Contractor coordination
Quality inspections

Related Services

Façade Clerk of Works
Resident Liaison & Engagement
Remediation & Compliance Services
Wall Systems

6. Completion

The final stage is to inspect, record and document the completed remediation works.

Completion Includes

Snagging inspections
Practical completion
Sign-off surveys
As-built information
O&M documentation
Completion records
Photographic records
Post-remediation assessment

Related Services

Snagging, Practical Completion & Sign-Off Surveys
O&M Manual & As-Built Documentation
Post-Remediation EWS1 Re-Certification

How Long Does Façade Remediation Take?

There is no standard timeframe for façade remediation.

The programme can vary depending on the building, façade construction, extent of the works, investigation requirements, access, design, procurement, funding and contractor availability.

A project involving localised repairs may be relatively straightforward, while extensive façade replacement can take considerably longer.

Read: How Long Does Façade Remediation Take?

Does Every Façade Remediation Project Require Complete Replacement?

No.

The appropriate solution should be based on the evidence gathered during assessment and investigation.

Depending on the circumstances, remediation may involve:

Repair → Component Replacement → Partial Replacement → Full System Replacement

The aim is to establish an appropriate and proportionate solution based on the condition, construction and requirements of the building.

Need Help With a Façade Remediation Project?

If you have identified concerns with your building’s façade or have already received a survey or assessment recommending further action, we can help establish the appropriate next step.

Whether you need further investigation, a remediation strategy, design support or assistance with remedial works, tell us about your project.