Law firm, Washington, D.C.

An urban office property


Masonry is of the most durable methods of construction and offers years of timeless beauty and performance for owners and facility managers.  While these aesthetics are preferred by many design professionals, the performance can deteriorate over time if not properly maintained. Water infiltration, coupled with freeze/ thaw cycles, can cause cracks to develop which accelerate the corrosion of reinforcement steel and attachment anchors. Brick veneer and precast concrete cracks were at a point where surface failure in the form of spalling began, which poses a falling hazard. Deteriorated sealant joints also contributed to masonry system deterioration. dpM Partners provided survey work and scope of work recommendations, bidding process, and inspections over the course of construction. Once the work was completed and a periodic maintenance program implemented, the building is again aesthetically pleasing and well-functioning.