In our Renovation Lessons , we collaborate with various experts in order to offer accessible and rigorous content. For the Winter 2023 session, Marianne Trottier-Tellier will be presenting Lesson #6 "Exterior walls, roofing and insulation". To give you an idea of her involvement and the content of this session, we spoke with her!
Initially a graduate in architecture, you have carried out various mandates in recent years. Can you tell us briefly about your professional career?
I began by carrying out envelope renovation mandates for schools and hospitals. Then, larger projects, such as the expansion of the Pointe-à-Callière Museum or the redevelopment of a portion of Jean-Drapeau Park, made me look beyond architectural heritage, by discovering issues related to archaeology, landscapes, works of art, historical events or characters, etc. More recently, it is the question of modern heritage that I had to study in the context of renovation work at the main campus of UQAM.
What is your involvement in the renovation lessons atHéritage Montréal ?
I've been working with Héritage Montréal since 2015. Héritage Montréal 's mission to promote and protect our heritage brings me back to my own values. The longevity of our built heritage is largely dependent on the renovations and maintenance that each owner chooses to carry out on his or her building. By getting involved withHéritage Montréal, I hope to help homeowners better equip themselves to face the challenges and issues involved in maintaining and renovating their homes.
Why do you think it is important to take such lessons?
The lessons include a wealth of information about the characteristics of typical metropolitan area properties and explain in detail several key concepts that are essential to making informed renovation and maintenance decisions. After attending the lessons, participants should be able to prioritize interventions that will extend the life of their property while improving comfort and reducing energy consumption. Knowing how to invest where it counts is good for the wallet and also for the planet!
What are the main steps to achieve sustainable work?
Before undertaking a renovation project, it may be necessary to make certain adjustments to the property to ensure that the work will last. Here are the steps to follow:
- Observation: identify existing conditions and recognize the presence of problems if they exist.
- Diagnosis: look beyond the symptoms to identify the source of the problem.
- Formulation of a solution: addressing the source of the problem, not just treating the symptoms.
- Corrective measures: To bring the building back to an acceptable level of performance and avoid unpleasant surprises in the future.
- Renovation: Proceed with confidence to build on a solid foundation.
Are there certain decisions that can reduce the environmental impact of renovations?
Globally, we want to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and reduce resource consumption. This can be achieved by, for example:
- Choose local, recyclable, long-lasting materials that are made from renewable energy.
- Avoid contributing to theheat island phenomenon by choosing a light-coloured roof covering.
- Reduce waste by reusing materials where possible (e.g. brick).
Finally, can you give one or two examples of small actions that help ensure the longevity of the roof, insulation or exterior walls?
I encourage people to inspect their property at least twice a year, in the spring and fall. Since water is a major cause of damage to homes, the following items deserve special attention:
- Roof: water accumulation, appearance of cracks in the waterproofing membrane, condition of metal flashings, clearing of drains and gutters.
- Between roof and crawl space: accumulation of water on the ground, presence of condensation or traces of humidity on the materials, signs of mold.
- Exterior walls and foundation: condition of sealants around openings, condition of masonry joints.
- Land: Accumulation of water on the ground near the house following a heavy rainfall or at the time of snowmelt.
PHOTOS : MARIANNE TROTTIER-TELLIER
The "Exterior Walls, Roofing and Insulation" session will be offered on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 from 6:30-9:30pm in a hybrid format. To find out about our 8 lessons and to register: https: //www.heritagemontreal.org/activite/lecons-sur-la-renovation-2022-23/
Are you a homeowner or future homeowner? Are you planning maintenance, restoration or renovation work on your home and don't know where to start? Héritage Montréal can help you with your project. More than 9,000 participants have already put their trust in us!
