Forensic Architecture & Building Science
MZA's knowledge of architecture, engineering, building materials, and building science are invaluable in "recreating the scene" in building failures, older buildings, and diagnosing "sick" or contaminated buildings. Our analyses provide the basis for expert opinion in the analysis of construction defects and building system failures.
Using state-of-the-art video and computer animation technology, along with large-scale display graphics, MZA creates compelling presentations explaining complex phenomena such as airflow, stack effect, or moisture intrusion.
Site Investigation
MZA performs site investigations using state of the art remote imaging, photographic, microscopic, and video capabilities to document building systems, assemblies and conditions.
Investigative and Historic Research
MZA investigates the historical uses, construction and condition of facilities and sites to determine the building, infrastructure, and environmental changes over time. This documentation provides the basis for expert opinion pertaining to changes in buildings and site conditions spanning years or even decades.
Materials Analysis
MZA conducts microscopic investigations both in the field and in the lab. MZA's capabilities in materials evaluation and testing include items such as thermal insulation, sprayed-on fireproofing, coatings, encapsulants, drywall, joint compound, plaster, masonry products, and other materials.
Literature and Document Research
Our technical literature review capabilities are invaluable in determining the suitability of a product for a certain application or the historical "state-of-the-art" of a product. This is especially useful in product liability or construction defect situations.
Forensic Library Resources
MZA maintains a vast architectural and technical library used as a resource in forensic investigations. This library includes historic architectural and engineering handbooks, texts, specification manuals, practice handbooks, and materials handbooks, making it possible to duplicate the decision-making process of by-gone design and construction professionals.
Environmental Science and Industrial Hygiene
Building site development or redevelopment projects, including former industrial sites, can be plagued by a number of environmental issues. MZA identifies previous uses which could have left a legacy of contamination that would have to be addressed as part of site rehabilitation.
In conjunction with The Environmental Institute in Atlanta, GA, MZA has developed and regularly instructs a course in Mold Assessment and Remediation that attracts building owners and contractors from across the country. MZA is the author of "Mold and Moisture Damage in Building Envelopes" in the Building Envelope section of the Whole Building Design Guide, published by NIBS, the National Institute of Building Sciences. MZA also serves on the Guidelines for Total Building Commissioning Committee jointly sponsored by NIBS and ASHRAE, the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers.
