Becht Engineering BT, Inc. is proud to announce the promotion of one of our esteemed employee co-owners, marking another milestone in our commitment to excellence in the engineering industry. We are thrilled to share that Thomas J. Keane has been promoted from Lead Designer to Structural Department Head. This strategic decision showcases our dedication to fostering talent from within and providing opportunities for advancement.

Brick veneer façades are admired for their aesthetic appeal, durability, and timeless charm. From historic buildings to modern architectural wonders, these façades convey a sense of stability and sophistication. However, the engineering behind brick veneer façades demands careful attention to detail to ensure structural integrity, thermal efficiency, and long-term performance. By engaging structural engineers, building owners can address the unique challenges posed by brick veneer façades effectively. Structural engineers bring expertise in diagnosing existing issues, such as cracks or displacements, and implementing solutions that not only restore but enhance the façade's performance. This role is indispensable in ensuring that repairs are strong and long-lasting, minimizing future maintenance costs. Moreover, their collaboration with architects ensures that aesthetic considerations are balanced seamlessly with structural integrity, whether for historical preservation or modern upgrades. For building owners, this partnership is key to maintaining the value, safety, and visual appeal of their properties. Our structural engineering team at Becht recently completed a successful brick veneer façade reconstruction project at a 3-story timber mixed-use building on the historic downtown Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair, NJ. The façade of the building is composed of a brick masonry veneer with terra cotta features. The façade has an intermediate column that was severely damaged by corrosion. It was failing to support the façade lintel beams. This resulted in significant movement and cracking of the façade masonry. Becht provided design drawings for the replacement of part of the first-floor framing, the replacement of the failed column, the reinforcement of the lintel beams, and the construction an entirely new masonry façade wall.

Low slope or “flat” roofs are the primary roof assembly on most mid and high-rise buildings. Like any roofing system, flat roofs are not immune to wear and tear over time, making timely replacement crucial to safeguard your investment. Identifying the need for a flat roof replacement is critical to prevent interior and structural damage to the building. Signs that it may be time to replace your flat roof include leaks, ponding water, cracks, tears, mold, mildew, and unsightly ceiling stains. The first step is to engage a qualified roofing consultant who can conduct a comprehensive inspection to evaluate the extent of the damage, identify its root causes, and recommend the best replacement or recover options. There are many choices for roofing materials including options like EPDM, PVC, TPO, liquid applied, and modified bitumen. After carefully removing the old roofing materials, it is essential to address any structural issues with the roof assembly. Additionally, modifications to flashing and drainage systems may be necessary during the replacement process to improve the performance of the roof. The consultant should also evaluate the existing thermal performance of the roof assembly to determine if additional insulation will be needed for any new roof. Our building envelope team at Becht recently completed a successful flat roof replacement project at the 10 Malcolm Avenue Condominium building in Teterboro, NJ, where we took charge of the design, bidding, and construction oversight, ensuring top-notch results.

Becht proudly employs nine Reserve Specialists, each certified by the esteemed Community Associations Institute. The prestigious Reserve Specialist (RS) credential is awarded to highly qualified professionals who excel in guiding community associations through the intricacies of long-term repair and replacement planning. To earn this credential, individuals must prepare at least 30 reserve studies within the last three years, holding a degree in construction management, architecture, or engineering - or possessing equivalent experience and education.

Becht Engineering BT, Inc. is proud to announce the newest member of our leadership team! This well-deserved promotion enhances our capabilities and propels us forward in the competitive property management and engineering landscape. Timothy P. Sullivan, RS, RRO, REWO, EBP has advanced from Building Envelope Discipline Leader to his new role as Division Manager for our New York Metropolitan Region Project Management Division. His recent promotion showcases our dedication to cultivating top talent and fostering growth opportunities within our organization.