Destructive testing plays a critical role in restoration and construction, especially when you are dealing with compromised structures, fire-damaged materials, or post-disaster assessments. But once you have the destructive testing report in hand, what should you do next?

Whether you are a contractor, project manager, or property owner, knowing how to act on this information can help reduce liability, ensure safety, and maintain compliance.

1. Review the Report with Your Team

Start by reviewing the findings with your engineering or quality assurance team. Look for:

• Material strengths compared to failure points

• Evidence of contamination such as fire, mold, or water damage

• Signs of structural fatigue or deterioration

This is your opportunity to confirm what can be restored and what needs full replacement.

2. Determine Safety and Compliance Risks

If the report indicates that certain materials or assemblies failed below acceptable thresholds:

• Stop work in affected areas until issues are resolved

• Notify insurance carriers if findings impact the claim

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Balconies are a prized feature of multi-unit residential buildings, but they can quickly become a liability if structural damage is hidden beneath the surface. In California, SB326 makes it mandatory for HOAs to inspect exterior elevated elements, including balconies, to ensure resident safety. While visual inspections are a good first step, sometimes destructive testing is the only way to uncover serious underlying issues.

Here are 3 clear signs that your balconies may need destructive testing, and what you should do next.

1. Visible Deterioration of Surface Materials

If you notice peeling paint, soft wood, rust stains, or cracked concrete, it’s more than a cosmetic concern. These are often signs that water intrusion has occurred and may be affecting the structural components beneath. Even if the surface looks manageable, trapped moisture can lead to dry rot, corrosion, and eventual structural failure.

Why it matters:

Visual issues may hide much bigger problems. Destructive testing allows professionals to assess the internal framing, connections, and hardware that aren’t visible to the eye.

Wood adds timeless beauty and structural integrity to commercial buildings and HOA-managed properties. But when neglected, it can become a liability instead of an asset. Whether you're managing a shopping center, office complex, or multi-unit residential community, restoring wood elements isn't just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a smart investment in the longevity, value, and safety of your property.

1. Prevent Structural Damage

Damaged or decaying wood, especially from dry rot or termite activity, can compromise the structural safety of your property. In commercial and HOA environments where public safety is critical, regular inspection and timely restoration prevent costly emergency repairs and mitigate liability risks.

2. Maintain Curb Appeal and Property Value

Curb appeal isn’t just about aesthetics—it directly impacts property value and tenant satisfaction. For HOAs, attractive common areas and entryways support higher home values and better community perception. For commercial properties, well-maintained exteriors attract tenants and clients, signaling that the property is cared for and professionally managed.

3. Stay Ahead of Code Compliance and HOA Guidelines

Wrought iron is a popular choice for fences, railings, balconies, and gates on commercial and HOA properties due to its durability and classic aesthetic. However, like all building materials, it’s vulnerable to wear, rust, and structural weakening over time. If not properly maintained, it can become both a safety risk and a liability. That’s where wrought iron restoration comes in.

Here are the top 5 reasons to prioritize wrought iron restoration for your property or community:

1. Prevent Rust and Corrosion Damage

Wrought iron is prone to rust, especially in high-humidity or coastal environments. Once corrosion sets in, it spreads quickly—compromising not just the appearance, but the structural integrity of the iron. Regular restoration, including rust removal and refinishing, extends the lifespan of your ironwork and prevents costly replacements.

2. Maintain Safety and Code Compliance

Fences, guardrails, and stair railings aren’t just decorative—they’re critical safety features. Weak or damaged wrought iron poses a serious hazard, particularly on multi-unit residential properties. Local building codes and HOA guidelines often require these features to meet specific safety standards. Restoring rusted or deteriorating sections helps ensure ongoing compliance and protects residents and visitors alike.

When it comes to maintaining or upgrading your home’s curb appeal, few improvements offer as much impact as a professional exterior paint job. But not all painting companies are created equal. Whether you're prepping to sell, protecting your property from the elements, or just ready for a fresh look, choosing the right Southern California painting company is essential.

Here’s why working with experienced exterior painting professionals matters—and how to identify the best painters for your project.

🎨 What Sets a Professional Painting Company Apart?

A high-quality painting contractor does more than just apply a fresh coat of paint. The best companies offer:

• Thorough surface preparation (washing, scraping, priming)

• Expert knowledge of paint types and how they perform in California’s varied climate zones

• Attention to detail on trim, shutters, doors, and edges

• Color consultation services to help you make confident design choices

Whether you own a home in Kern County, a business in Orange County, a beachfront property in Santa Barbara, or a commercial property in Rancho Cucamonga, a reputable painting company will tailor its services to your location and structure type. From coastal climates to inland valleys, experienced painting professionals understand how regional conditions impact paint performance—and how to deliver long-lasting, beautiful results.

Repainting your home’s exterior is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase curb appeal and protect your investment. Whether you're preparing to sell, updating your style, or maintaining your property, knowing the costs, timelines, and best practices can help you plan with confidence. Below, we break down four key questions homeowners often ask before starting an exterior painting project.

🎯 1. How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House Exterior?

The cost of painting a house exterior varies based on several factors, including the size of the home, the type of siding, the complexity of the job, and the quality of paint used. On average, you can expect:

• Smaller homes (1,000–1,500 sq ft): $2,500–$4,000

• Medium-sized homes (1,500–2,500 sq ft): $4,000–$7,000

• Larger homes (2,500+ sq ft): $7,000–$10,000+

Other cost factors include:

• Prep work (sanding, caulking, power washing)

• Paint type and brand

• Height and accessibility of the home

• Additional services (repairs, trim, doors, shutters)

Professional painters will typically provide a detailed estimate based on an in-person evaluation.

As a property owner, one of the smartest investments you can make after a decade is giving your space a fresh coat of paint. While it may seem like a purely cosmetic upgrade, repainting a home or commercial building that’s over 10 years old can have significant long-term benefits. Here are the top three reasons why now might be the perfect time to refresh those walls:

1. Protect Against Structural Deterioration

Over time, paint doesn’t just fade—it begins to lose its protective qualities. Exterior paint in particular acts as a crucial barrier against weather, moisture, UV rays, and pests. As the paint ages, it may start to peel, crack, or chalk, exposing the underlying materials to the elements.

For homes with wood siding, older paint can allow moisture to seep in, leading to wood rot and mildew. On brick or stucco surfaces, cracks may appear, accelerating structural wear. Repainting with high-quality paint can seal these vulnerabilities, helping to prevent costly repairs later.

2. Boost Property Value and Curb Appeal

Whether you're considering selling or simply want to maintain your property's market value, a fresh paint job goes a long way. According to real estate experts, painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase a home’s value and improve its appearance.

Wood rot is caused by fungi (molds) that thrive in damp conditions. The fungus grows slowly over time, causing the wood to weaken and break down. Once the wood rots away, water can enter the wall cavity and cause further damage.

"I want to make sure my investment is protected from wood rot, what should I do?"

Preventing wood rot is the best way to save your community/investment from future damage. It is important to start with proper draining and grading around buildings to avoid water accumulation. Regular inspections for leaks and prompt repairs will save you thousands of dollars in wood replacement in the future. It is also very important to properly seal, paint, and prime wood surfaces to protect the wood from moisture and external damages.

"If my community has deferred maintenance for a while now...how will I know if rotted wood is present?"

Wood rot frequently presents as a fungus with a black hue- the texture is soft and spongy to the touch. When dried, it tends to break and crumble easily and is commonly accompanied by a damp and musty odor. If you smell a musty odor, and notice wood that is soft/brittle...it might be time to give us a call...Call: 888-567-2234 or email us at request@wsindustries.com for a wood inspection/wood report!