HSA Building Sciences


	Building Contractors, Architecture/Design
Contractors and architects have requested HSA to assist on a variety of construction-related services. Exterior moisture intrusion The appearance of a commercial building is greatly enhanced by landscaping; however, irrigation systems, elevated planter boxes, earth berms and improper grading can result in moisture intrusion through the building envelope. Moisture intrusion from these sources can be prevented in new buildings during the design phase. Moisture intrusion in existing buildings can be detected with various moisture detection and thermal imaging equipment to reveal the location and extent of damage. Contact: rmoon@hsa-env.com or dherrmann@hsa-env.com Moisture Surveys An integral part of an Indoor Environmental Evaluation (IEE) is the moisture survey. Several survey instruments are used to determine the moisture content. Penetrating (invasive) and non penetrating moisture meters are used to measure the amount of moisture in various building materials. These methods provide a means to identify the source or sources of moisture. In addition to direct contact measurements, thermal imaging cameras can provide a survey tool that covers a large area over a short period of time. Thermal imagery is most effective following a recent water event or release. HSA personnel are trained in the operation of the various methods of moisture detection and in interpreting the findings. Contact: rmoon@hsa-env.com Shower Pan Testing Shower pans are normally tested during various stages of construction. HSA's shower pan test procedures follow the manufacturer's instructions (Oatey). The test method requires the insertion of a pneumatic plug deep inside the drain so as to block both the primary and secondary drains. The shower is filled to a predetermined height and held for an extended period of time to assure that damage to the pan has not occurred during installation. Contact: jmartin@hsa-env.com Nuisance Dust Monitoring During construction or renovation, nuisance dust sampling of the construction site or spaces adjacent to a renovation area monitors the amount of particulate in the air. HSA uses state-of-the art particulate dust counters to quantify the size and number of particles that might pose occupational exposure concerns. Contact: dherrman@hsa-env.com Building Insulation Integrity During construction it is advantageous to know where breaches in insulation occur to avoid future problems related to thermal bridging or condensation. A thermal image camera provides a low cost method of surveying insulated areas of the building envelope to locate areas were insulation is missing or sparsely applied before interior finishes are applied. An insulation assessment can also be utilized as a promotion when selling or leasing the building. Contacts: dherrmann@hsa-env.com or jmartin@hsa-env.com		Professional Services Asbestos Consulting Building Contractors Expert Witness Government Services IAQ Monitoring Insurance Services Schools and Church Buildings Specialized Requests 4019 East Fowler Avenue Tampa, Florida 33629 813-971-3882 rmoon@hsa-env.com

Building Contractors, Architecture/Design

Professional Services