Construction Law
7 Common Types Of Construction Defects To Be Aware Of
As a general contractor, builder, or developer one must be aware of construction defects. As your Sarasota construction attorneys, we have come up with seven common construction defects that are found and how to avoid them. Not only do these defects lessen the value of the home, but many that involve water damage can lead to worse issues like mold, which can appear after as little as 24 hours of water leaks.
1. Windows
Typically, window defects result in leaks, a result of poor installation. If a window was not flashed properly that can lead to a leak. However, sometimes the problem itself is that the window was defective and that caused the leaking.
2. Roofs
Common roof construction defects generally have to do with the installation of the component parts; not the roofing material itself. Contractors will more than likely find roof tiles overextended or underlayment, which can cause leaks. Another common roof defect is an improper slope on a flat roof.
3. Stucco
Stucco construction defects result in cracking. Stuccos cracks can be caused by a few different problems, like structural deficiencies, such as a missing plywood wall. However, stucco shrinkage has been known to cause stucco cracks as well. This occurs if stucco was mixed inadequately or applied in severe (extremely hot) weather conditions. Soil sediment is another factor in stucco cracks.
4. Drywall
Drywall defects also typically result in cracks. Drywall cracks can be caused by some of the same defects that cause stucco cracks, such as structural deficiencies and poor installation.
5. Concrete
Like stucco, one of the most common concrete construction defects is cracking. Cracks in concrete are usually caused by an improper slope or excess water damage.
6. Balconies/Decks
Balconies and deck defects coincide with roof defects. These result typically from installation problems that involve underlayment and flashing. Flashing is the metal that helps to transition one material to another. Usually, the flashing is lapped incorrectly, which causes leaks.
7. Showers
Shower enclosure defects stem from poor or improper installation of flashing, lack of caulking, waterproofing, or tile installation; all of which cause leaking.
To speak with an experienced Sarasota construction lawyer, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.