Services
With over 20 years experience, Cion Coulter Corp (Cion) offers a wide range of engineering services to building owners and property managers for commercial, industrial, institutional, and multi-unit residential buildings.
Investigation
Intrusive Investigation
Exploratory test openings involve the systematic disassembly of any building envelope system and are used to confirm existing construction and details related to repairs. We often perform exploratory test openings to assess existing conditions when the cladding systems and joints are not performing as intended.
We take a hands on practical approach regarding noise level disputes between units or related to exterior noise related complaints. Our team uses their knowledge of building assemblies and their weaknesses as well as their knowledge of products on the market to come up with practical design to improve occupant comfort. We also use sound generating machines to gauge the effectiveness before and after the repairs.
Hammer testing and chain drag testing are an essential part of any concrete repair project. The tests are conducted in order to determine potential areas of delamination of concrete including structural components. This type of work is typically done for below grade parking garages and areas of high traffic including walkways, terraces and balconies.
Infrared thermographic scanning is conducted during multiple types of projects including but not limited to the following:
- Thermal heat loss through a roof or wall assembly
- Temperature differentials related to retained water ingress
- Air leakage testing to confirm the source of air transmission
In order to determine the source of air leakage and odour transfer, we utilize blower door assemblies to negatively pressurize the units and induce air and/or odour leakage. Smoke pencils and thermographic cameras are also utilized to visually confirm and document the areas of leakage. In the case of large area or multiple potential points of air ingress, a stage fogger is utilized to flood the ambient air space with fog and a ultrafine particle counter is utilized to confirm the point of ingress.
When excessive condensation is reported during the winter months of the year, we utilize temperature/ humidity data loggers throughout the unit, adjacent units and the exterior to gather control and atmospheric conditions. With a knowledge of the existing wall or roof assembly and its thermal resistance, we then create a model using the measurements that allow us to identify sources of condensation and a methodology for repair.
We provide testing services to determine the location and source of water infiltration at exterior walls, windows, doors, etc. In addition to traditional hoses, we utilize a spray rack on site to apply the water in a controlled pattern, while staff monitor the interior for leaks. In some cases, a blower door assembly can be used to negatively pressurize the suite during the water testing to mimic high wind (storm) conditions. Water testing can be completed on any exterior portion of a structure and in some cases, completed on the interior to trace the movement of a leakage source. Roof water leakage and below grade water leakage testing is also conducted through Cion|Coulter.
We take a hands on practical approach regarding noise level disputes between units or related to exterior noise related complaints. Our team uses their knowledge of building assemblies and their weaknesses as well as their knowledge of products on the market to come up with practical design to improve occupant comfort. We also use sound generating machines to gauge the effectiveness before and after the repairs.
Hammer testing and chain drag testing are an essential part of any concrete repair project. The tests are conducted in order to determine potential areas of delamination of concrete including structural components. This type of work is typically done for below grade parking garages and areas of high traffic including walkways, terraces and balconies.
Infrared thermographic scanning is conducted during multiple types of projects including but not limited to the following:
- Thermal heat loss through a roof or wall assembly
- Temperature differentials related to retained water ingress
- Air leakage testing to confirm the source of air transmission
In order to determine the source of air leakage and odour transfer, we utilize blower door assemblies to negatively pressurize the units and induce air and/or odour leakage. Smoke pencils and thermographic cameras are also utilized to visually confirm and document the areas of leakage. In the case of large area or multiple potential points of air ingress, a stage fogger is utilized to flood the ambient air space with fog and a ultrafine particle counter is utilized to confirm the point of ingress.
When excessive condensation is reported during the winter months of the year, we utilize temperature/ humidity data loggers throughout the unit, adjacent units and the exterior to gather control and atmospheric conditions. With a knowledge of the existing wall or roof assembly and its thermal resistance, we then create a model using the measurements that allow us to identify sources of condensation and a methodology for repair.
Condo Services
Over the past 20 years, Cion has assisted hundreds of Condominium Corporations and their Boards with maintaining, repairing, and replacement of the various building components. We have conducted hundreds of Reserve Fund Studies, Performance Audits, and condition assessments. We have also investigated and addressed a variety of issues including water and air leakage, odour transmission, and other major building failures.
Warranty reviews and negotiations for newly registered condominiums.
Life cycle analysis of the major building components.
Detailed review of the condition and performance of major building components.
Strategically identify causes of issues through testing, observations and monitoring and provide recommendations for remediation.
Design and contract administration services for major building restoration projects.
Engineering services related to the assessment and replacement of major mechanical and electrical systems.
Warranty reviews and negotiations for newly registered condominiums.
Life cycle analysis of the major building components.
Detailed review of the condition and performance of major building components.
Strategically identify causes of issues through testing, observations and monitoring and provide recommendations for remediation.
Design and contract administration services for major building restoration projects.
Engineering services related to the assessment and replacement of major mechanical and electrical systems.
Capital Asset Management
Our team is experienced in completing numerous building condition assessments, for residential, commercial, and institutional facilities. We have a strong knowledge of the life cycle and replacement costs of building components and understand the nuances of tailoring the assessments for different stages of asset management whether it be acquisition, budgeting, refinance, or capital improvement. We also have extensive experience completing assessments for large portfolios of buildings and assets nation wide.
Cion is an expert in building condition assessments (BCAs) which are often commonly referred to as facility condition assessments or reviews as well as asset management plans (AMPs). Our subject experts have conducted hundreds of reviews for all building types, ages and uses. From our extensive investigation and construction expereience, our staff understand how buildings deteriorate and how to effectively repair or maintain the buildings we are inspecting. Our costing is based on tables maintained from hundreds of inhouse renewal projects augmented by published costing services. Cion has provided this service throughout Canada, United States and beyond.
Cion can be retained to provide project management and closely related contract administration (CA) for our clients. This service is almost always included with our design services but we can be retained only for the CA. Our staff are fair, detailed and responsive to ensure the project runs as smooth and cost effective as possible.
Transaction due diligence is a type of building condition assessment that is required prior to the purchase, sale or refinancing of a property. Cion has our own 'report template' and we are also able to adopt to the client's preferred format. We understand this is a time-sensitive service that requires discretion onsite and secrecy in general.
Cion, in addition to our other services, can provide environmental assessments (EA's). This service is often conducted in conjunction with a due-diligence project that requires a Phase 1 EA or an upcoming construction project that requires a government mandated a hazardous materials review.
Cion and our NORR co-brand provide feasibility studies for our clients typically, when a change in building-use or building expansion is being considered. Cion has also provided whole building repair-versus-replace studies for our partners and conducted stakeholder reviews to weigh and score decision matrices that can be helpful in guiding a management team towards a rational, clear and defendable decision.
Cion provides, usually as part of our design service, permit application services. We can provide the necessary architects, engineers and other subject matter experts who are required to sign and seal the relevant applications.
Cion is an expert in building condition assessments (BCAs) which are often commonly referred to as facility condition assessments or reviews as well as asset management plans (AMPs). Our subject experts have conducted hundreds of reviews for all building types, ages and uses. From our extensive investigation and construction expereience, our staff understand how buildings deteriorate and how to effectively repair or maintain the buildings we are inspecting. Our costing is based on tables maintained from hundreds of inhouse renewal projects augmented by published costing services. Cion has provided this service throughout Canada, United States and beyond.
Cion can be retained to provide project management and closely related contract administration (CA) for our clients. This service is almost always included with our design services but we can be retained only for the CA. Our staff are fair, detailed and responsive to ensure the project runs as smooth and cost effective as possible.
Transaction due diligence is a type of building condition assessment that is required prior to the purchase, sale or refinancing of a property. Cion has our own ‘report template’ and we are also able to adopt to the client’s preferred format. We understand this is a time-sensitive service that requires discretion onsite and secrecy in general.
Cion, in addition to our other services, can provide environmental assessments (EA’s). This service is often conducted in conjunction with a due-diligence project that requires a Phase 1 EA or an upcoming construction project that requires a government mandated a hazardous materials review.
Cion and our NORR co-brand provide feasibility studies for our clients typically, when a change in building-use or building expansion is being considered. Cion has also provided whole building repair-versus-replace studies for our partners and conducted stakeholder reviews to weigh and score decision matrices that can be helpful in guiding a management team towards a rational, clear and defendable decision.
Cion provides, usually as part of our design service, permit application services. We can provide the necessary architects, engineers and other subject matter experts who are required to sign and seal the relevant applications.
Cion is an expert in building condition assessments (BCAs) which are often commonly referred to as facility condition assessments or reviews as well as asset management plans (AMPs). Our subject experts have conducted hundreds of reviews for all building types, ages and uses. From our extensive investigation and construction expereience, our staff understand how buildings deteriorate and how to effectively repair or maintain the buildings we are inspecting. Our costing is based on tables maintained from hundreds of inhouse renewal projects augmented by published costing services. Cion has provided this service throughout Canada, United States and beyond.
Cion can be retained to provide project management and closely related contract administration (CA) for our clients. This service is almost always included with our design services but we can be retained only for the CA. Our staff are fair, detailed and responsive to ensure the project runs as smooth and cost effective as possible.
Transaction due diligence is a type of building condition assessment that is required prior to the purchase, sale or refinancing of a property. Cion has our own ‘report template’ and we are also able to adopt to the client’s preferred format. We understand this is a time-sensitive service that requires discretion onsite and secrecy in general.
Cion, in addition to our other services, can provide environmental assessments (EA’s). This service is often conducted in conjunction with a due-diligence project that requires a Phase 1 EA or an upcoming construction project that requires a government mandated a hazardous materials review.
Cion and our NORR co-brand provide feasibility studies for our clients typically, when a change in building-use or building expansion is being considered. Cion has also provided whole building repair-versus-replace studies for our partners and conducted stakeholder reviews to weigh and score decision matrices that can be helpful in guiding a management team towards a rational, clear and defendable decision.
Cion provides, usually as part of our design service, permit application services. We can provide the necessary architects, engineers and other subject matter experts who are required to sign and seal the relevant applications.
Mechanical
HVAC Equipment Replacements & Upgrades
Cion provides design services for heating and cooling plant equipment as well as air handling systems. We have completed numerous projects from conceptual design to construction review of Air Handling Units, Make-Up Air Units, Cooling Towers, Chillers, Boilers, etc.
Whether the client requires additional heating or cooling capacity, air filtration, or better efficiency, our staff is experienced in implementing such solutions in a wide variety of buildings. We have completed projects from conceptual design to completion of construction in hospitals, commercial real estate, high- and low-rise residential, universities, and light industrial buildings.
Our staff applies their wealth of theoretical knowledge to solve a wide variety of problems within buildings. Whether it is an equipment malfunction, system issue, noise problem, or odour, we possess knowledge and instruments to conduct a thorough review of the issue at hand and provide assessment reports. Where possible, we endeavour to make recommendations for future work to solve your building issue; and we can do that too!
Our staff is experienced in conducting energy audits of buildings in compliance with ASHRAE Level I, II, or III standards. We prepare detailed energy audit reports for use in project planning, energy usage assessment, recommendations for capital improvement projects to make our clients buildings more sustainable and future-friendly.
Per the guidelines established in the Ontario Fire Code Part 7: Checking, Inspection, Testing, Notification and Maintenance of Fire Emergency Systems in High Buildings, Cion Coulter assists in updating Fire Safety Plans to include Smoke Control System testing. Through our partnerships with experienced Fire Safety technicians and industry leaders, we have developed, tested, and implemented Smoke Control Testing procedures in numerous buildings. We also conduct sprinkler system layout review & design, in addition to code reviews & compliance investigations.
Cion Coulter engineering provides design services to replace or upgrade plumbing system equipment such as: domestic water heaters & storage tanks, booster pumps, sanitary & sump systems, roof drainage & storm systems, & plumbing riser replacements. We also specialize in investigating and replacing Kitec domestic water piping system.
Whether the client requires additional heating or cooling capacity, air filtration, or better efficiency, our staff is experienced in implementing such solutions in a wide variety of buildings. We have completed projects from conceptual design to completion of construction in hospitals, commercial real estate, high- and low-rise residential, universities, and light industrial buildings.
Our staff applies their wealth of theoretical knowledge to solve a wide variety of problems within buildings. Whether it is an equipment malfunction, system issue, noise problem, or odour, we possess knowledge and instruments to conduct a thorough review of the issue at hand and provide assessment reports. Where possible, we endeavour to make recommendations for future work to solve your building issue; and we can do that too!
Our staff is experienced in conducting energy audits of buildings in compliance with ASHRAE Level I, II, or III standards. We prepare detailed energy audit reports for use in project planning, energy usage assessment, recommendations for capital improvement projects to make our clients buildings more sustainable and future-friendly.
Per the guidelines established in the Ontario Fire Code Part 7: Checking, Inspection, Testing, Notification and Maintenance of Fire Emergency Systems in High Buildings, Cion Coulter assists in updating Fire Safety Plans to include Smoke Control System testing. Through our partnerships with experienced Fire Safety technicians and industry leaders, we have developed, tested, and implemented Smoke Control Testing procedures in numerous buildings.
We also conduct sprinkler system layout review & design, in addition to code reviews & compliance investigations.
Cion Coulter engineering provides design services to replace or upgrade plumbing system equipment such as: domestic water heaters & storage tanks, booster pumps, sanitary & sump systems, roof drainage & storm systems, & plumbing riser replacements. We also specialize in investigating and replacing Kitec domestic water piping system.
Building Rehabilitation
Cion employees are eminently qualified to address your building restoration needs. In addition to hundreds of successful restoration projects, we have conducted thousands of building investigations and assessments that each contribute to our deep and broad understanding of building construction designs and building materials used over the past 150-years. We know how these existing buildings are constructed, how they are prone to fail and how new materials can be applied to these buildings to address performance issues while improving the comfort and the aesthetics of the buildings. We work with building owners, managers and architects to ensure a successful completion of the project in a timely and cost effective manner.
Roof and waterproofing systems are generally intended to keep a building dry, safe and comfortable. These systems are assembled onsite and each component is must be compatible and must be installed correctly in order to ensure the complete roof or waterproofing system performs well past the warranty period.
Underground parking garage and above grade parking structures require annual inspection and maintenance to ensure they provide a safe and comfortable space and to ensure the service life of your expensive asset is fully realized. Our experts conduct inspection and testing then provide a detailed report that provides observations and a costed repair or replacement strategy, depending on the observations. When the time comes for repair of the undergound parking garage or structure, most of our clients requiest that we continue to provide design specfications as well as tendering, construction inspection and contract administration. Through the design process, our experts provide practical solutions to budget phasing needs, odour concerns, complicated swing-space and access issues.
Cion have specialists in all types of cladding systems including brick, concrete, metal, wood and composites of all types. It does not require a lot of money to maintain your cladding system in comparison to the cost to repalace it. Our staff are hands-on in the intrusive investigations and tests needed to determine how your cladding system is performing and how to address any deficiencies in a cost effective with minimal distruption. When the time comes to replace your cladding system we make suggestions to improve the energy performance, occupant comfort, service life and aesthetics of the cladding. We provide our own renderings inhouse and also, on larger projects work with our NORR Architecture colleagues to ensure our clients understand and are confident in their choices.
Glazing and fenestrations including windows, skylights, glazed entrances and curtain wall assemblies similarly are . Our staff assess the fenestrations then provide design solutions to address air and water leaks, accessibilty, solar heat gain and heat loss comfort issues as well as security concerns. When the replacement option is preferred by our client, we provide design, tendering, construction review and contract management. We routintely also work with our clients for occupant communication, town-hall meetings and surveys to ensure all the bases are covered from the start to the end of the project.
Balcony restoration projects are a rare opportunity to dramatically improve the curb appeal of the building and address past performance issues with the building’s balconies nevertheless our engineers and specialists will always ensure the performance and life cycle cost of the balconies is minimized. If railing replacement or major repairs are needed or requested, our staff will ensure the opportunities are explored for improvements to the utility, performance and the aesthetics through smart design. Design, tendering, construction review and contract administration are provided with our consulting services.
Cion is a national leader in accessibility consulting. Across the country we provide accessibility reviews, compliance audits, design and construction inspection and contract administration services. Our projects often include:
- Zone one exterior ramps, parking, lighting, signage);
- Zone two building entrances, vestibules and automation); and
- Zone three interior public washrooms, signage, and corridor widening.
Roadway and parking pavement as well as hardscaping elements including retaining walls and walkways are routinely part of our inspection, design and construction services. These projects are often prompted by storm water management, settlement or accessibility issues. Cion provides practical assessment, design and construction related consulting services.
Cion provides interior renovation design and contractor administration on projects ranging from entrance lobbies, to elevator installations and public washrooms. Our co-brand, NORR Architects works with us to ensure the design is not just functional but also meets your space planning goals and projects the desired aesethetic image at a reasonable cost.
Roof and waterproofing systems are generally intended to keep a building dry, safe and comfortable. These systems are assembled onsite and each component is must be compatible and must be installed correctly in order to ensure the complete roof or waterproofing system performs well past the warranty period.
Cion provides interior renovation design and contractor administration on projects ranging from entrance lobbies, to elevator installations and public washrooms. Our co-brand, NORR Architects works with us to ensure the design is not just functional but also meets your space planning goals and projects the desired aesethetic image at a reasonable cost.
Cion is a national leader in accessibility consulting. Across the country we provide accessibility reviews, compliance audits, design and construction inspection and contract administration services. Our projects often include:
- Zone one exterior ramps, parking, lighting, signage);
- Zone two building entrances, vestibules and automation); and
- Zone three interior public washrooms, signage, and corridor widening.
Balcony restoration projects are a rare opportunity to dramatically improve the curb appeal of the building and address past performance issues with the building's balconies nevertheless our engineers and specialists will always ensure the performance and life cycle cost of the balconies is minimized. If railing replacement or major repairs are needed or requested, our staff will ensure the opportunities are explored for improvements to the utility, performance and the aesthetics through smart design. Design, tendering, construction review and contract administration are provided with our consulting services.
Underground parking garage and above grade parking structures require annual inspection and maintenance to ensure they provide a safe and comfortable space and to ensure the service life of your expensive asset is fully realized. Our experts conduct inspection and testing then provide a detailed report that provides observations and a costed repair or replacement strategy, depending on the observations. When the time comes for repair of the undergound parking garage or structure, most of our clients requiest that we continue to provide design specfications as well as tendering, construction inspection and contract administration. Through the design process, our experts provide practical solutions to budget phasing needs, odour concerns, complicated swing-space and access issues.
Roadway and parking pavement as well as hardscaping elements including retaining walls and walkways are routinely part of our inspection, design and construction services. These projects are often prompted by storm water management, settlement or accessibility issues. Cion provides practical assessment, design and construction related consulting services.
Cion have specialists in all types of cladding systems including brick, concrete, metal, wood and composites of all types. It does not require a lot of money to maintain your cladding system in comparison to the cost to repalace it. Our staff are hands-on in the intrusive investigations and tests needed to determine how your cladding system is performing and how to address any deficiencies in a cost effective with minimal distruption. When the time comes to replace your cladding system we make suggestions to improve the energy performance, occupant comfort, service life and aesthetics of the cladding. We provide our own renderings inhouse and also, on larger projects work with our NORR Architecture colleagues to ensure our clients understand and are confident in their choices.
Glazing and fenestrations including windows, skylights, glazed entrances and curtain wall assemblies similarly are . Our staff assess the fenestrations then provide design solutions to address air and water leaks, accessibilty, solar heat gain and heat loss comfort issues as well as security concerns. When the replacement option is preferred by our client, we provide design, tendering, construction review and contract management. We routintely also work with our clients for occupant communication, town-hall meetings and surveys to ensure all the bases are covered from the start to the end of the project.
Roofing and waterproofing systems are generally intended to keep a building dry, safe and comfortable. These systems are assembled onsite and each component is must be compatible and must be installed correctly in order to ensure the complete roof or waterproofing system performs well past the warranty period.
Underground parking garage and above grade parking structures require annual inspection and maintenance to ensure they provide a safe and comfortable space and to ensure the service life of your expensive asset is fully realized. Our experts conduct inspection and testing then provide a detailed report that provides observations and a costed repair or replacement strategy, depending on the observations. When the time comes for repair of the undergound parking garage or structure, most of our clients requiest that we continue to provide design specfications as well as tendering, construction inspection and contract administration. Through the design process, our experts provide practical solutions to budget phasing needs, odour concerns, complicated swing-space and access issues.
Cion have specialists in all types of cladding systems including brick, concrete, metal, wood and composites of all types. It does not require a lot of money to maintain your cladding system in comparison to the cost to repalace it. Our staff are hands-on in the intrusive investigations and tests needed to determine how your cladding system is performing and how to address any deficiencies in a cost effective with minimal distruption. When the time comes to replace your cladding system we make suggestions to improve the energy performance, occupant comfort, service life and aesthetics of the cladding. We provide our own renderings inhouse and also, on larger projects work with our NORR Architecture colleagues to ensure our clients understand and are confident in their choices.
Glazing and fenestrations including windows, skylights, glazed entrances and curtain wall assemblies similarly are . Our staff assess the fenestrations then provide design solutions to address air and water leaks, accessibilty, solar heat gain and heat loss comfort issues as well as security concerns. When the replacement option is preferred by our client, we provide design, tendering, construction review and contract management. We routintely also work with our clients for occupant communication, town-hall meetings and surveys to ensure all the bases are covered from the start to the end of the project.
Balcony restoration projects are a rare opportunity to dramatically improve the curb appeal of the building and address past performance issues with the building’s balconies nevertheless our engineers and specialists will always ensure the performance and life cycle cost of the balconies is minimized. If railing replacement or major repairs are needed or requested, our staff will ensure the opportunities are explored for improvements to the utility, performance and the aesthetics through smart design. Design, tendering, construction review and contract administration are provided with our consulting services.
Cion is a national leader in accessibility consulting. Across the country we provide accessibility reviews, compliance audits, design and construction inspection and contract administration services. Our projects often include:
- Zone one exterior ramps, parking, lighting, signage);
- Zone two building entrances, vestibules and automation); and
- Zone three interior public washrooms, signage, and corridor widening.
Roadway and parking pavement as well as hardscaping elements including retaining walls and walkways are routinely part of our inspection, design and construction services. These projects are often prompted by storm water management, settlement or accessibility issues. Cion provides practical assessment, design and construction related consulting services.
Cion provides interior renovation design and contractor administration on projects ranging from entrance lobbies, to elevator installations and public washrooms. Our co-brand, NORR Architects works with us to ensure the design is not just functional but also meets your space planning goals and projects the desired aesethetic image at a reasonable cost.
Building Envelope Design
Cion provides building envelope sub-consulting for our professional Clients for projects requiring expertise from thermal and hygro-thermal modelling, design, third-party design review, constructability review, site review and testing. We can provide, if needed whole building energy modeling and energy analysis. Our Clients include architects, engineering firms, contractors and design build developers and their projects are located across Canada and the USA.
Our staff have a keen understanding of practical design with building failure investigation and building repair strategies. Consequently, we are very familiar with the various modes of bridging, incompatible materials and corrosion). This experience cannot be learned in the class room and is critical to completing the education our staff bring from Canada’s world-class University and College programs. Our low-turnover staff ensures our Clients are supported by highly skilled and experienced building envelope specialists.
Cion Coulter can provide full-service architecture and engineering for your small building addition needs. More typically and for larger projects we provide building envelope, mechanical engineering design support for a lead architect. Our design experience for small and large projects spans across Canada and the USA.
Please call us to discuss your project and building envelope challenges. Investing in our services is cheap insurance to achieving the results building owners, investors and occupants expect.
Our staff have a keen understanding of practical design with building failure investigation and building repair strategies. Consequently, we are very familiar with the various modes of bridging, incompatible materials and corrosion). This experience cannot be learned in the class room and is critical to completing the education our staff bring from Canada’s world-class University and College programs. Our low-turnover staff ensures our Clients are supported by highly skilled and experienced building envelope specialists.
Although we are very uncomfortable with green-field design, Cion Coulter enjoys the challenge of building expansion and renovation projects that require a thorough understanding of new and old materials as well as new and old construction methods. More importantly we know how new and old systems can be practically connected without compromising performance or aesthetics.
Please call us to discuss your project and building envelope challenges. Investing in our services is cheap insurance to achieving the results building owners, investors and occupants expect.
