How to Identify When Your Fire Escape Needs Repairs

The intricately designed metal fire escapes are a classic architectural facet in New York buildings. These structures are predominantly installed in high-rise buildings as the principal egress route at the time of crises. Unfortunately, it is commonplace to spot old, dilapidated, and rickety fire escapes while walking on the streets of the Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, Long Island, Brooklyn, and Richmond Hill.

Fire escape repair NYC is a prerequisite to ensure accessibility, functionality, and safety. It is a predominant aspect of the maintenance program, and every property owner is responsible for its upkeep. A fire escape system with compromised structural integrity and usability is more likely a hazard than a safety feature. It poses impending threats that may harm lives and properties.

As we speak of repairing a fire escape, do you know when you need it? Well, here is a guide to help you understand the leading signs of damage requiring immediate repairs. Let’s check out.

You Need Fire Escape Repairs: The Alarming Signs

Damage in any form is alarming because it gradually aggravates, and often, you have to undergo a complete fire escape replacement Queens. Indeed, it is a time-consuming and expensive project. So, always address the issues as soon as you learn about them. Repairs become necessary in the following circumstances:

• Peeling Paint– When paint starts coming off the surface, it indicates significant moisture damage. As moisture gets trapped within the paint layer, it forms bubbles or blisters. Eventually, the paint peels off, exposing the metal surface to external elements.
• Rust– Paint acts as a protective barrier against harsh weather, moisture, dirt, and chemicals. As it fades or peels, corrosion occurs. The exposed metal surface of fire escape oxidizes when reacts with moisture. It accumulates as a reddish-brown layer called rust, which gradually decays the structure. Rust or corrosion eats away metal, weakening structural strength and stability.
• Wear and Tear– Abrasion or regular wear and tear is inevitable. You may notice disarrayed components like unparallel railings, uneven stair gaps, etc. Soil movement is also responsible for this cause. Only a licensed fire escape repair contractor NYC can resolve it.
• Loose Parts– Joints, bolts, screws, nuts, and anchorages become loose over time. You may have hanging railings, shifting stairs, etc. The fundamental reason behind it is corrosion, weathering, and abrasion. As a result, the structure becomes unstable and frail. You cannot use it because it poses safety hazards.
• Creaking Noise– Does your fire escape make noise when you climb up or down? It means that there are loose bonds or considerable stress. When the structural integrity is extensively compromised, you have unusual noises like squeaks, creaks, etc. Nonetheless, regular fire escape maintenance can keep it in check.
• Unstable Structure– If you have a fire escape that moves or shifts with your footstep, the structure is unstable. Ageing, corrosion, loose connections, and foundational shifts are the overriding causes. Using a fire escape with structural instability is highly dangerous!
• Operation Failure– Facing difficulty while operating the drop ladder or gates is another sign of damage. As debris, dirt, and rust accumulate over the years, the lever becomes stiff or gets stuck. Hence, you cannot operate them smoothly. Unfortunately, you have a non-functional fire escape.
• Cracks– Indentations or cracks may appear at any time. Often, it is due to physical impact or stress. Both jeopardize the accessibility, stability, and functionality of the structure. You must address them instantly.

Thus, now you know when you need repairs and fire escape paint! Watch out for the signs and perform regular professional inspections.