Inspection of Facade Attachments

– 20.05.2026

Identifying, Assessing and Preventing Corrosion Damage

Corrosion damage to facade attachments is one of the most common causes of safety-related defects in existing buildings. Components such as balconies, canopies, railings, advertising installations, substructures behind ventilated facades, and subsequently installed structures are particularly affected.

What many people underestimate is that corrosion does not occur suddenly; it is the result of a long-term process. In practice, the causes often date back many years before the actual damage becomes visible.

Typical Causes of Corrosion Damage

The analysis of damage cases reveals recurring triggers that play a significant role in the development and acceleration of corrosion:

• Moisture ingress due to leaking connections or inadequate sealing

• Insufficient corrosion protection or damaged coatings

• Contact corrosion caused by combining different metals

• Chloride exposure, for example from de-icing salts or proximity to the sea

• Condensation in cavities or poorly ventilated structures

• Planning deficiencies, particularly in the connection area to the facade

• Environmental influences such as exhaust gases, air pollutants or acid rain

These factors often occur simultaneously and remain undetected for a long time, especially in concealed components.

Prevention Strategies: Focus on Planning and Operation

A large proportion of corrosion damage can be avoided through forward-looking planning and consistent maintenance. Key factors include:

• Suitable material selection, taking environmental conditions into account

• Corrosion-appropriate detailing with particular attention to connections

• Reliable drainage to prevent standing water

• Avoidance of moisture accumulation within structures

• Regular maintenance and inspection, including components that are not visible

Especially in complex facade systems, a holistic view of the structure, use and environmental influences is required.

Importance of Professional Inspection

Corrosion is rarely a purely visual issue. It often affects load-bearing or safety-relevant fastening systems — frequently concealed behind cladding or within multi-layered facade assemblies.

For this reason, a purely visual assessment is often not sufficient. What matters is:

• the systematic inspection of the affected components

• the root cause analysis to identify the damage mechanisms

• the assessment of existing inspection and maintenance obligations

An early professional technical inspection makes it possible to identify risks in good time and initiate targeted measures.

Conclusion

Corrosion damage to facade attachments poses a significant risk to building safety. It often develops unnoticed and only becomes visible once the damage has already reached an advanced stage.

A combination of forward-looking planning, regular inspection and sound root cause analysis is essential to prevent damage and ensure the long-term safety of buildings.

Early action not only protects the building fabric, but also reduces costs and liability risks in the long term.