The Cost-Saving Power of Regular Façade Maintenance

As a property manager or building owner, you know that maintenance of a commercial property is no small task. From tenant satisfaction to structural integrity, every detail matters. One area that often gets overlooked until problems arise is the building’s exterior façade. At J.S. Goray, Inc., we’ve seen firsthand how regular façade maintenance can save thousands in repair costs while enhancing your property’s value and curb appeal. In this post, we’ll explore why proactive maintenance is essential and how it can benefit your commercial property in the long run.

Why Façade Maintenance Matters

Your building’s façade is its first line of defense against the harsh Midwest elements—rain, snow, wind, and temperature fluctuations. Over time, these forces can cause cracks, water infiltration, and material deterioration. Here’s why regular maintenance is critical:

• Prevent Water Damage: Failed sealants or cracked masonry allow water to seep into your building, damaging interiors and compromising structural components. Routine inspections and sealant replacement can keep your property watertight.
• Extend Material Lifespan: Brick, stone, and concrete are durable but not invincible. Tuckpointing and coatings protect these materials from wear, delaying the need for costly replacements.
• Maintain Aesthetic Appeal: A well-maintained façade signals professionalism and care, attracting tenants and customers. Cracked or stained exteriors, on the other hand, can deter business.
• Avoid Safety Hazards: Deteriorating masonry or concrete can pose risks to employees, tenants, or passersby. Proactive repairs ensure your property remains safe.

The Cost of Neglect

Ignoring façade maintenance may seem like a cost-saving measure in the short term, but it often leads to expensive repairs down the line. For example:

• Water infiltration from failed caulking can damage insulation, drywall, and even steel supports, leading to repair costs in the tens of thousands.
• Cracked concrete or spalling brick may require full panel replacements if not addressed early, significantly increasing project budgets.
• Emergency repairs due to sudden façade failures disrupt tenants and operations, adding to the financial and logistical burden.

At J.S. Goray, Inc., we’ve completed over 4,500 projects since 1993, and our experience shows that properties with regular maintenance schedules incur far lower long-term costs than those that delay action.

Key Maintenance Practices

To protect your investment, consider these essential façade maintenance steps:

• Annual Inspections: On-site visual inspections are a great way to monitor a building’s health. We perform annual and budgetary inspections for many of our clients.
• Sealant Replacement: Most sealants last 7-15 years. Replace them before they fail to prevent water intrusion. Our team specifies high-quality products selected to meet the specific demands of your building’s construction and conditions.  
• Tuckpointing and Masonry Repair: Remove deteriorated mortar and apply fresh mortar to restore structural integrity and weatherproofing.
• Coatings and Water Repellents: Performance coatings or water repellents can be applied to precast concrete or CMU walls to enhance durability and prevent moisture penetration.
• Concrete and Stone Repairs: Address hairline cracks or spalling early to avoid larger structural issues.
• Budget for Maintenance: Budgeting for an annual maintenance program is the best way to reduce the instances of large repair projects or critical failures. Regular maintenance extends the life of your building exponentially over neglecting repair.  

Take Action Today

Don’t wait for a failed façade to signal the need for maintenance. By investing in regular inspections and repairs, you can save significant costs, enhance your property’s appearance, and ensure its longevity. Contact J.S. Goray, Inc. today at 800-516-3074 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation. Let us help you protect your commercial property from the elements and keep it looking its best.