Location:
Alexandria, Virginia
Description:
Essex House Condominium is a 12-building, 200-unit community completed in 1984. The buildings were originally clad in aluminum siding that lacked a weather resistant barrier (WRB). TDL was selected to prepare design specifications for siding replacement. Project requirements included improved interior comfort, minimal maintenance, and minimal change in community appearance. The final design included the installation of a WRB, new flashings, and insulated vinyl siding. Door and window decorative elements were replaced with composite materials, and window trim was wrapped with prefinished sheet metal. We conducted competitive bidding and provided construction administration throughout the work. The new cladding system does not require costly maintenance, has improved interior comfort by reducing drafts via increasing R-value, and has not changed the community aesthetic.