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Inspection finds water intrusion, mortar and roof problems at Hilltop and hospital; city outlines phased repairs
Summary
Consultants told the Herington City Commission that water intrusion is the top immediate risk at the Hilltop/hospital complex and recommended targeted repointing of loose mortar, roof drainage and lower-cost interim fixes; commissioners were told HVAC and basement water intrusion also need study before larger work is pursued.
Consultants who inspected Herington’s Hilltop and the adjacent hospital building told the City Commission on Sept. 16 that water intrusion is the most immediate threat to the aging brick structures and recommended targeted repointing and roof-drainage work to prevent progressive masonry failure.
The city’s presenter introduced two outside consultants and asked them to highlight what needed immediate attention, near-term repairs and longer-term work. An unidentified building consultant said repointing loose mortar in parapets and unheated portions of the structure should be prioritized because “the biggest enemy of an old building is water,” adding that freeze–thaw cycles and ponding on the flat roof accelerate brick and mortar deterioration.
The consultants described how repointing is performed, recommended a mid-range Type S mortar for…
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