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As part of our building forensics work, CBG&A is frequently
asked to investigate paint and coating failures.
For nearly 40 years, CBG&A has provided technical support, quality
assurance inspections and coatings consulting services to a variety
of clientele, including: architects, contractors, building owners,
attorneys, and local government agencies. As a result, we have
acquired a unique knowledge of the paint and coatings industry. We provide in-depth
technical evaluation and analysis of coating applications for new
and proposed projects, re-coating applications, existing
construction, dispute resolution, and litigation assistance.
Our scope of consulting services include:
Field Testing and Application
Inspection Services:
We provide inspection services during the coating application
process to assure the client that the specified materials are on the
job site and that proper surface preparation and application methods
are being employed. We will also analyze whether the applied
coatings meet project specifications.
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Surface preparation: Improperly prepared surfaces can
result in reduced coating integrity and service life. To ensure
adhesion of the coating to the substrate, we can verify that the
proper surface preparation methods are being implemented –
depending on the substrate, the environment, and the expected
life of the coating system.
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Moisture testing: Moisture is the principal cause of
heavy damage to painted surfaces. It is responsible for
premature loss of adhesion, blistering, staining, and fungus
growth. We can test substrates with a variety of moisture
detection systems
to verify if the surfaces to be coated exceed the specified
requirements.
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pH testing: All cementitious surfaces to be coated must
be tested for alkalinity levels. We can determine if the
alkalinity of the cementitious substrate is in
the proper range for painting.
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Rilem tube testing: RILEM Test Method II.4 is a low
pressure field test developed by the Reunion Internationale des
Laboratorias D’Essais, Paris, France and corresponds to a
dynamic wind pressure of approximately 88.5 mph at a full water
column height of 9.8 cm. The test method is used to measure
water absorption under low pressure to determine the rate at
which water moves through a relatively porous materials. It can
also be used to determine if water is entering through cracks or
voids in a painted substrate.
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Adhesion testing: For coatings to perform
satisfactorily, they must adhere to the substrates on which they
are applied. We provide adhesion testing using a variety of
recognized methods can be used to determine how well a coating
is bonded to the substrate.
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Paint thickness measurements: One of the most common
inspection services we perform is to determine if the specified
mils of paint were applied. Using a variety of instruments and
accepted industry techniques, we can test the paint application
to verify if the coating thickness exceeds the specified
requirements.
Construction Documents:
CBG&A is often asked to examine and assess the coating needs and
criteria required by a specific architectural approach, including
the suitability of a coating in a particular environment. We can
then prepare drawings to define the scope of work and technical
specifications necessary to meet the specific performance
requirements of the project. This enables the client to delineate
the scope and evaluate bids that are specific to the project.
Submittal Review:
The purpose of reviewing submittals is to determine if the products
incorporated into a project during construction substantially
conform to the design intent as expressed in the contract documents.
We frequently review submittals to confirm that the materials and
products submitted are acceptable and compatible with other products
specified and surfaces to be painted. We also find it helpful to
isolate information pertinent to the coating application (e.g.
surface preparation requirements, coverage rate, mill thickness,
etc) in order to simplify the inspection process.
Failure Analysis:
Our professional and technical staff can analyze paint and coating
failure problems to determine the cause of the failure, who is
responsible and recommend remedial repairs.
Material Testing:
Our combination of in-house capabilities and affiliated laboratories
provides a full range of testing and analysis. We have access to a
variety of testing laboratories when 3rd party analysis is required.
Dispute Resolution:
We provide services that includes evaluation, deposition and/or
testimony in a coating dispute that has escalated to arbitration or
trial. We can prepare reports and/or exhibits or provide expert
testimony to clarify technical issues in an arbitration or
litigation proceeding.
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