How it Began:
2023 marks the 20th anniversary of GRLA establishing a Building Envelope Services (BES) department. In 2003, GRLA saw the need to deliver dedicated BES services for new and existing buildings in a comprehensive manner. Starting from a team of one with a few projects in its first year, the new venture was deemed a success as more team members were added and the number and size of projects grew exponentially.
How it’s Going:
Today, building envelope sciences is a more recognized field of expertise, and the GRLA team comprises 7 full-time staff members. In the past 5 years alone, BES has serviced over 350 projects all over New England, New York, New Jersey, and as far away as Florida. “We continue building upon what we started 20 years ago and are poised for even more growth in our expertise, service offerings and client relationships, both with new and long-term and in the private and public sectors,” said BES Director, Chris Paszko, P.E.
What is Building Envelope Sciences?
The building envelope is a collective of exterior building systems and materials to protect and control the effects of air, water, vapor and thermal forces on a building. These systems include the roof, walls, windows and doors, and foundation to form the exterior shell of a building.
Our main focus is on water penetration resistance, water vapor mitigation, and improving thermal performance for new and existing construction. Our projects include façade restoration and rebuilding, roof replacements and restorations, waterproofing, window and door replacement and Building Envelope Commissioning. Our services and expertise are essential for protecting and maintaining your building for years to come.
Our team specializes in:
Diagnosis of building envelope failures and remedial solutions for existing buildings.
Design and technical support for testing for new construction.
Capital Needs Assessments and Long-Term Replacement Costs.
Building Envelope Commissioning.
How We Can Help You:
Existing Construction
Analysis and reporting on failures of building components.
Infrared thermography.
Water penetration testing and reporting.
Remedial solutions design and documentation.
Bidding, Construction Administration and Construction Control.
Due-diligence, facilities, and capital needs assessments.
Inspection and maintenance programs.
Historic restoration and renovation.
Coordination with MEP and structural consultants on investigations and remediation plans.
New Construction
Drawing and specification review and detailing.
Systems design and development.
Construction observation and performance testing.
Building Envelope Commissioning.
“GRLA’s in-house building envelope expertise is a key strength of our firm. We are excited to see what the next 20 years bring,” GRLA President and co-founder, Scott Richardson, AIA LEED AP