GRLA: building envelope sciences

building envelope sciences at gorman richardson lewis architects
In January 2003, we inaugurated Building Envelope Sciences at Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects. Our group is composed of building envelope specialists trained and experienced in the diagnosis, testing, and repair of leaking or failing building components such as roofs, skylights, walls, curtain walls, windows, foundations, and site drainage. Our extensive experience is combined with careful documentation, on site testing, and laboratory analysis that uses ASTM and other international standards. We identify the cause, the location, and the repair strategies required for structures of all types. We back our analysis with solid remediation plans, budget estimating, construction documentation, and on-site construction review.
The BES division's experience includes: Architectural precast concrete panels Brick, concrete and stone masonry Cast-in-place concrete Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) Membrane and shingle roofs Metal composite panels Sealant and waterproofing Thin-metal roof and wall claddings Tile, and tile-faced precast concrete panels Traditional stucco and pebble-dash Truss-supported thin stone veneer Window, curtain wall, skylight and door Wood clapboard, shingles and shakes Historic wood window restoration.		The BES division provides the following to a wide range of clients: New Construction: Systems design and development Drawing and specification development Drawing and specification review Construction observation and testing Education and training Existing Construction: Analysis and reporting on failures Remedial solutions design and documentation Remedial bidding and construction administration Due-diligence and facilities assessments Inspection and maintenance programs Historic restoration
Examples



	Lincoln Public Library Lincoln, Massachusetts Design and construction administration for various repairs to the exterior walls, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and various other interior repairs. The scope also includes historic window restoration and design and construction administration for slate roof replacement and masonry repairs.



	The Residences at Town Square Hartford, Connecticut New construction, building envelope design and documentation services for a 36-story high-rise luxury apartment complex.  Systems include curtain wall, windows, roof, precast concrete panes, masonry, metal panels and thin-stone.



	EMC Corporation Hopkinton, Massachusetts Initial overall building analysis, water penetration analysis, façade examination, roof and alucabond panel review, detailed building examination and photography, removal of gypsum board and insulation in order to access sample interior locations, detailed report illustrating problems and listing recommended solutions.



	Hopkinton Middle School Hopkinton, Massachusetts Investigation and remedial options development for cracking and veneer displacement associated with an exterior brick masonry wall. Scope includes design of emergency, temporary remedial repairs.



	Heritage at Framingham Framingham, Massachusetts Investigation, reporting on and remedial design and construction administration for water penetration and rot of underlying sheathing.  Includes shingle and EPDM membrane roof and window replacement.