Expert Parapet Wall Repair

Parapet wall repair is very common for buildings and 3 flats in the city of Chicago. Most modern flat-roofed construction, whether residential or otherwise, includes these walls at the edges as a matter of safety, both to prevent people from accidentally falling off the roof and to prevent accumulated debris from falling off and possibly injuring people below. Parapet walls utilize space, provide safety to the building occupants, work as a barrier for dust and debris, provide privacy, cuts down wind and also provides protection for expensive equipment installed on the roof.

Badly damaged walls pose a serious risk to pedestrians walking beneath the building. Loose brick may fall and seriously injure someone. Also, the top is vulnerable to moisture penetration problems. Choosing an appropriate cap is an effective way to eliminate this condition. To protect moisture from entering through the top of the wall, a continuous flashing membrane should be installed directly beneath the mortar joint below the cap.

Parapet Wall Repairs

Parapet wall repairs can be expensive but addressing any issues early may save you in the long run. A full rebuild can be very costly and may involve multiple rows of brick. Most parapet walls consist of an exterior wythe of brick and a back up wall. If the back up wall becomes damaged, the parapet wall will likely need to be rebuilt. Don’t delay if there is washed out mortar, spalled bricks and/or failing copings. These are signs that the wall is starting to fail. Addressing it early can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Call the experts at FocalPoint Masonry Inc to schedule a FREE CONSULTATION right now.

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Parapet Wall FAQ

1. What is a parapet wall?
   • A parapet wall is a low protective wall or railing along the edge of a roof, balcony, bridge, or terrace to prevent people from falling.
2. Why do parapet walls need repairs?
   • Parapet walls are exposed to weather elements and can deteriorate over time due to water damage, freeze-thaw cycles, structural settling, or lack of maintenance.
3. What are common issues with parapet walls?
   • Common issues include cracks, crumbling mortar, spalling (flaking or chipping of the surface), water infiltration, leaning or tilting, and loose or missing bricks or stones.
4. How do I know if my parapet wall needs repairs?
   • Signs that you may need repairs include visible cracks, loose or missing bricks, water stains on the interior walls, sagging or tilting of the wall, or if it hasn’t been inspected or maintained in a long time.
5. What is involved in repairing a parapet wall?
   • Repairing may involve tasks such as repointing mortar joints, replacing damaged bricks or stones, sealing cracks, waterproofing the surface, reinforcing the structure, and addressing any underlying structural issues.
6. Can I repair a parapet wall myself?
   • While minor repairs such as filling small cracks or replacing a few bricks may be DIY-friendly, extensive repairs or those involving structural issues should be handled by professionals with experience in masonry and construction.
7. How much does parapet wall repair cost?
   • The cost of repairs can vary depending on the extent of damage, materials needed, accessibility, and labor costs.
8. How long does parapet wall repair take?
   • The duration of repairs depends on the scope of work and the complexity of the issues. Minor repairs may be completed in a few days, while major repairs could take several weeks, especially if structural reinforcement is required.
9. Can parapet walls be waterproofed?
   • Yes, they can be waterproofed to prevent water infiltration and protect against further damage. Waterproofing materials such as sealants, membranes, or coatings are applied to the surface to create a barrier against moisture.
10. How can I prevent future damage to my parapet wall?
    • Regular inspections, timely repairs, proper drainage systems, and applying protective coatings or sealants can help prevent future damage. Additionally, addressing underlying structural issues and maintaining the surrounding roof and drainage systems can prolong the life of the wall.

Remember, if you have specific concerns it’s always best to consult with a qualified contractor or mason for an assessment and recommendations tailored to your situation.

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