Construction Defects

When something as complex as a building is constructed, it’s almost impossible to construct it in a manner that is entirely and completely free of flaws.  Many flaws are so minor they will never been seen or noticed.  Others, however, can be very dangerous.

To build any building, regardless of its size of intended use, many materials will be used and connected in a way that is intricately intertwined.  The planning and measuring required to put it all together functionally and attractively is mind boggling to those of us not familiar with the industry.

Minor flaws can lead to full-blown construction defects that can lead to some very serious complications, though, so attention to detail is more than just a personality trait.

When measurements are close but not quite on the mark, the construction defects that result can shift the weight of the entire building off center.  This shifted weight is likely to become dependant upon other parts of the building for stability, even though those other parts aren’t designed to bear so much weight.

This is a very serious issue than could jeopardize the safety, even the lives, of anyone occupying the building.  Everyone is in danger throughout the remainder of the construction phase and during occupancy once the building is complete.

Sometimes measurements are exact but dangerous construction defects are attributed to faulty materials.  For example, a concrete slab that isn’t mixed or cured properly may cause the completed building to shift or collapse once the ground has settled around the new building. 

Construction defects can start at the top, too.  When a roof isn’t installed properly or if inferior quality materials, skills, or techniques are used, the roof is unlikely to withstand the effects of the elements it was built to combat.

Construction defects can be costly to remedy if not detected and repaired during the initial phase of the project.  The more completely the building is finished before defects are detected, the more costly the repair project.

The longer construction defects are left in place, the more dangerous the building becomes, too.

For these reasons, it is never a good idea to hire a building contractor of dubious skill or reputation just to save a little money.  The damage done later by construction defects undetected is added expense.  The danger imposed can be tragic.