Exterior Walls
‘Sustainability’ is the definition of preserving, conserving and updating common walls with cost effective decisions. Community Resource Advocates is designed to assist board members to research “best known practices” and to offer solutions for sustainable options. CRA (Community Resource Advocates) is not recommending, suggesting or promoting any specific contractor. CRA only shares professional advice that is promoted as ‘sustainable’ for the health and welfare of the communities’ assets.
Know your Boundaries, know your walls
Why do Arizona homes have block walls?
Block walls “give people a little bit of privacy for the bit of side yard and backyard that they do have.” As for why a masonry block is used? The experts say it’s cheap and withstands the desert climate better than wood.
How long does exterior paint last in Arizona?
A new paint job, whether the interior or exterior is a huge investment. How long will that new paint job in the Valley last in the extreme heat? While interior paint jobs last about 10 years, the exterior only lasts on average 5-7 years.
Unit Boundaries
“Understanding and knowing where the unit boundaries are and what is and is not part of an owner’s unit is essential to understanding everything from maintenance obligations, insurance coverage, financial responsibility for repairs, and even where an owner or occupant can place a satellite dish. Yet I am constantly running into boards and managers that do not have a firm grasp on where the unit boundaries are in their association and end up making some pretty serious mistakes as a result.”
National Concrete Masonry Association
“Walls that have been covered with paint, water repellents, waterproofing or other coatings require periodic inspection of the condition of the coatings, and reapplication at some point will be necessary. Because of the wide range of products that can be used on concrete masonry walls, it is important to try to keep records of the coatings applied to the masonry. This will make the selection of appropriate reapplication materials much easier.
The proper selection and application of coatings will improve the performance and service life of the wall surface.”
Stucco Maintenance
Try these five tips for maintaining your stucco to keep your siding in top shape:
- Clean Your Stucco Regularly. Stucco is a porous material that can absorb stains from dirt, rain, and other environmental factors.
- Repair Cracks in the Stucco. .
- Don’t Delay Repairs..
- Seal It Regularly.
- Repaint Your Stucco.
Ivy & Other Plant Growth
“Plants in, around, and even on buildings add to the beauty of masonry walls and provide protection for the walls. They reduce temperature fluctuations by keeping the walls cooler in the summer. Trees, shrubs and ivy shield the walls from driving rain, thereby reducing the possibility of water penetration. Despite these and other benefits however, plant growth should be monitored to ensure the walls are not damaged.”
Sustainable practices will consist of ‘preventable policies.’ Community Resource Advocates educate on preventable actions as well as assisting in creating a sustainable program for your block walls in your community.