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Everett VerSchave, Architect, Applied Enclosure Consulting
Everett VerSchave, Architect Construction companies worldwide have often come across such complaints, and Applied Enclosure Consulting (AEC) is no exception. Be it a relatively straightforward reason for moisture damage or interlinked root causes, AEC and their professional staff has examined several hundred ailing properties with problems stemming from improper construction designs or poor workmanship. This commonly includes identifying sources of water leakage, condensation, and cladding distress/deterioration. In order to resolve such issues, the company embraces forensic construction practices as a proactive measure to provide tailored solutions depending on client prerogatives, environmental needs, and building requirements.

To understand this facet in detail, one can look at a case study where AEC assisted a property manager facing condensation issues in their buildings. As the property manager dived deep into figuring out the root cause, the management company quickly realized the need for a forensic expert who could suggest precise corrective measures. AEC’s professional staff evaluated the problem by understanding the building enclosure, the environmental conditions at the property site, performed a cursory review of each unit’s mechanical system, and reviewed the use of the individual units to understand the sources of elevated moisture and outlined a detailed report of the possible construction errors.

“We used the analysis sheet as a stepping stone to prompt discussions with the Home Owner’s Association (HOA),” remarks Everett VerSchave, Architect, Applied Enclosure Consulting. Upon determining the source(s) of elevated interior moisture, enclosure construction and mechanical system, VerSchave, along with the HOA members and property owners, walked through the “ideal” solution and a more affordable and less intrusive method that should dramatically alleviate the symptoms of the problem.

Applied Enclosure Consulting: Enveloping Construction Defects through Forensic Planning

The team extensively discussed the problems and identified resolution parameters that work best for the client’s project.

This was one of the many success stories scripted by AEC in its journey so far. With an experience spanning two decades forming its core, the Colorado-headquartered organization is founded on a pragmatic approach to understanding the enclosure of a building. “We do not recommend a one-size-fits all solution; we believe in having clear communications to curate solutions that serve their purpose,” comments VerSchave. AEC believes in squarely focusing on the continuity, compatibility, and resilience of water, vapor, and air control layers to devise a tailored plan according to customer expectations.

A typical client engagement with AEC begins with a detailed investigation in scrutinizing the deficiencies within a building. Using the team’s judgment and expertise, the company identifies reasonable repair scopes while addressing the risks that emerge during the process. The next step involves using the team’s hands-on experience in collaborating with numerous customers over the years to help shield the property from common construction defects, along with designing and working through the solution with qualified contractors.

We do not recommend a one-size-fits all solution; we believe in having clear communications to curate solutions that serve their purpose

AEC’s forensic architects ensure that the building enclosure serves as a valuable and well-utilized asset. In the construction review phase, the experienced team reviews the quality of work and compares the contractors’ work with the construction documents to supplement design-related suggestions. As a final step, AEC even provides an unbiased, succinct, and rational evaluation of clients’ concerns during defect litigation and arbitration procedures. The company also helps clients throughout their construction lifecycle to work through unforeseen bidding conditions, review the quality of contractors, or address any hurdles that come along the way.

Despite the innovations driving AEC, VerSchave hints at the challenges companies face due to the labor crunch and shortage of material resources within the forensic construction service industry. In addition, the limited knowledge of customers also creates differences that impair the overall building envelope repair scope selection process. AEC’s consumer-first approach helps firms overcome these barriers by devising solutions from “a customer’s perspective.” Continuing with its steady growth curve, the company aims to push boundaries by closely observing the industry parameters and embracing forensic practices that can change construction practices worldwide.