Earthquake repair contractors: some sound advice.

You have recently noticed some new cracks on your interior or exterior walls and ceilings that were not there a month ago. They may be only small hairline cracks, or openings large enough for a cat to go through. Either way, you'll probably want to have them repaired. The January 17 earthquake did not discriminate when it came to damaging buildings and the damage ranges from slight cracks to major structural damage. If your building or home suffered such damage, there are resources available to help you take care of it. The most important thing to remember is to use a contractor that is licensed and insured, and qualified to perform the type of work required. The most important thing to remember: If the bid sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Before you start the repair process, it is important to assess the damage. In some cases, small cracks that have developed could be an indication that structural damage has occurred. To be certain, contact a licensed structural engineer or architect to inspect the building. They will be familiar with how the building functions and can determine if the building has structural damage or just damage to the structure. The difference is that damage to the structure is more than likely cosmetic, while structural damage requires rebuilding of the framing of other structural components. According to D.S. McVicker, Wall and Ceiling Systems Technology, a consultant in the construction industry, recommends that owners have their buildings inspected by a structural engineer who is licensed, insured, and registered to practice in the State of California. Many people are doing inspections who do not have the proper credentials. If you need to retain a structural engineer you can contact the Structural Engineers Association of Southern California for a referral. Telephone # [phone]. After you have determined the extent of damage, you'll want to contact someone to make the repairs and there are a couple of resources that can provide that information. If your building has sustained enough damage to require architectural services, the American Institute of Architects, Los Angeles Chapter, can refer you to a qualified architect. AIA can be reached at [phone]. Next, determine what kind of contractor needs to be hired. If the project requires several different trades consider hiring a general contractor. For framing and concrete repairs the Carpenters-Contractors Cooperation Committee is able to provide a list of qualified, licensed contractors. Bill Luddy, executive director for the committee warns people to" be diligent in selecting someone to do your repair work. Check their references and licenses and make sure they are qualified to do the kind of work they are being hired for. There are opportunists who will use this situation as a way to gouge people who are not informed."

Rumors of contractors making cosmetic repairs over structural damage have created concern among industry professionals. This situation occurs on both sides of the fence. Walt Pruter, technical director for the CWCCA/Information Bureau, explains that some contractors are being asked by owners to "just cover up" the damage to make the building look good. On the other hand, some contractors may be suggesting that they can take care of the cosmetic damage, without inspecting for structural damage. In either case, this is a dangerous and unethical situation. Pruter states that "a good contractor knows his limitations and will be up-front with the owner or general contractor about the real cost to repair damages and what their capabilities are." He echoes other industry experts' concerns about hiring licensed contractors, and goes on to explain that contractors who employ union craftsmen offer the best-trained people to do the work."

"Contractors who belong to the California Wall and Ceiling Contractors Association (CWCCA) are dependable and stand behind their work," offers Barbara Marzec, office manager for CWCCA. "The contractors who belong to CWCCA are among the very best in their industry. They employ craftspeople who have acquired their skills through a combination of apprentice training and on-the-job experience. And, if there are any problems after the job is completed the contractor will still be around."

Ian Hendry, executive vice president of CWCCA, hopes that people needing repairs to their drywall and plaster will consider the advantages of using a member of his organization. "Our members offer quality, dependability and value, and the contractors who belong to this organization are very concerned about their industry and work to maintain the highest standards possible."

For information regarding drywall and plastering contractors able to provide services ranging from patching exterior plaster to tenant improvement contact the CWCCA/Information Bureau at [phone].

Finally, a good coat of paint or wall-covering will probably be in order after the major repairs have been made. The Painting and Decorating Contractors Association can also provide referrals for painting and wallcovering contractors. Call [phone] to contact the PDCA.

As far as preparing for the next seismic event, there is not much that can be done to prevent drywall or plaster from cracking. However, drywall and plaster systems correctly installed by trained professionals tend to do better in adverse circumstances. By knowing the correct techniques for installing materials that provide protection from fire and weather, and how they interact, a good craftsman will install these systems according to tested and proven industry standards. Besides remaining attached to the walls during an earthquake, drywall needs to be installed to provide safety from fire. Properly installed gypsum wallboard systems provide as much as four hours of protection to a building's corridors. It's possible that the earthquake created a need to retrofit damaged beams and column fireproofing or replace exposed fireproofing containing asbestos.

Whether your building is the First Interstate World Center or an apartment that needs repair, be sure to qualify the contractor offering to do the repair work. Check references and if they are doing business under a current contractors license. The Contractors State License Board can provide information about a contractor's status. Call them at 1-800-321-2752. Don't accept the first bid that comes in. Obtain two or three bids for the work. Ask the contractor what he intends to do for the bid he is submitting, sometimes they may be willing to negotiate the work. Ask the contractor if they belong to a professional association. This is an indication that they are willing to subscribe to certain ethical and business practices and are a stable company that will be available after the work is completed.

Ron Wollard is an architectural consultant for the CWCCA/Information Bureau, which provides information of drywall, lath, and plaster wall and ceiling systems to the construction industry.