Masonry Consulting - Inspection Services

We wear many hats when we inspect masonry work – it is part of our masonry consulting in Boston and Worcester, Massachusetts. Essentially, we look at masonry construction from several points of view. For example, like architects, owners, and masons and general contractors we focus on aesthetic aspects of the masonry, such as color of units, color and size of mortar joints, tolerances, etc. Then we look with the eye of a municipal building inspector or engineer, concentrating on verifying structural-related items, such as proper connections, reinforcing steel size and location and connector spacing. We then look with our native eyes as purely a masonry inspector, also closely inspecting structural-related items but also inspecting aesthetic, weatherproofing and serviceability aspects of the masonry being analyzed.

We understand the 2003 International Building Code (IBC) Section 1704.5 inspection requirements and will recommend a course of action ensuring that all requirements are met or exceeded.

To summarize and quote the Building Code:

“The special inspector shall be a qualified person who shall demonstrate competence, to the satisfaction of the building official, for inspection of the particular type of construction or operation requiring special inspection.”

Once we have identified any existing issues or violations, we will craft a comprehensive plan to repair and/or replace all necessary masonry work to return the building to sound structural integrity and complete building code compliance. Contact us today to get started.

Masonry Consulting - Expert Witness Services

CMR masonry consulting focuses on installation failures, maintenance, quality control, fabrication matters in concerning floor, wall, countertops, ceiling, roof and swimming pool installations of marble, stone, terrazzo, limestone, granite, slate, glazed and ceramic tile. We may provide nondestructive testing (NDT) and nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of failed materials and failed installations.

CMR has the experience to identify unforeseen damage which may have occurred with any type of construction project, so we utilize our skills regarding failure analysis and evaluation of construction defects. Legal actions involving concrete are usually made against the concrete manufacturer, general contractors, or construction companies.

CMR will review all documentation, perform inspections and diagnose the cause of any found failures. All data and findings will then be presented in a comprehensive and complete report. Take your first step today.

Stone Substrate Consulting

CMR will advise design and development teams regarding floor framing and subfloor recommendations for use under ceramic tile, stone, granite, marble, and similar floors. We review the stiffness of floor framing needed to avoid cracks or loosening of ceramic tile, stone, slate, and similar flooring and we investigate alternative methods of floor preparation for tiling. We address the floor framing and subflooring details for each of these tile types and recommend the most appropriate course of action.