Moisture Intrusion Solutions, a Salas O'Brien Company

Background

Overview

Moisture Intrusion Solutions (MIS), founded in 2013, is a specialized firm focusing on the waterproofing and water management of exterior building envelopes. In May 2023, MIS merged with Salas O'Brien, a national engineering, architecture, and facility planning firm, enhancing Salas O'Brien's capabilities in building envelope consulting.

Mission and Vision

MIS's mission is to serve others well by providing comprehensive solutions to prevent moisture intrusion, thereby safeguarding building integrity and reducing potential litigation risks. Their vision is to be a trusted partner in the construction industry, offering expertise from design through project completion to ensure durable and resilient building envelopes.

Primary Area of Focus

MIS specializes in independent third-party consulting, observation, and testing services, concentrating on the waterproofing of exterior building envelopes. Their services are integral to preventing moisture-related issues in construction projects, which can lead to significant damage and legal complications.

Industry Significance

The merger with Salas O'Brien has expanded MIS's reach, creating a combined presence of over 70 North American offices with more than 2,300 team members. This strategic expansion underscores the growing importance of comprehensive building envelope solutions in the construction industry.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Comprehensive Building Envelope Solutions: Providing end-to-end services from design consultation to post-construction testing to ensure building envelopes are waterproof and resilient.

Risk Mitigation: Identifying and addressing potential moisture intrusion issues early in the construction process to prevent costly repairs and legal disputes.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Design Consultation: Reviewing architectural plans to ensure moisture-resistant designs.

On-Site Observations: Monitoring construction practices to verify proper installation of waterproofing systems.

Field Testing: Conducting tests such as AAMA and ASTM to assess the effectiveness of building envelope components.

Leak Investigations: Utilizing thermal imaging, vector mapping, and drone observation services to detect and locate sources of water intrusion.

Key Technologies Utilized

Thermal Imaging: Identifying temperature variations that indicate moisture presence.

Vector Mapping: Mapping moisture pathways to understand and address intrusion routes.

Drone Observation Services: Providing aerial assessments of building envelopes for comprehensive evaluations.

Primary Markets Targeted

Construction Industry: Collaborating with architects, developers, and general contractors to integrate moisture control measures into building designs and construction practices.

Insurance Sector: Offering forensic investigations and testing services to support insurance claims related to water damage.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Specific details regarding MIS's funding history are not publicly disclosed. However, the merger with Salas O'Brien in May 2023 indicates a strategic partnership aimed at expanding service offerings and market reach.

Utilization of Capital

The integration with Salas O'Brien is expected to enhance MIS's operational capabilities, expand its service offerings, and strengthen its market position in the building envelope consulting sector.

Pipeline Development

Key Projects and Milestones

Development-Wide Construction Defects Evaluation: In 2024, MIS provided forensic engineering and architecture services for a 250-unit housing development, assessing moisture intrusion and supporting litigation processes.

Anticipated Milestones

As part of Salas O'Brien, MIS is poised to undertake larger-scale projects, leveraging combined resources to address complex building envelope challenges across North America.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

AAMA Accredited Testing Laboratory: MIS operates an in-house laboratory accredited by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, ensuring high-quality testing standards.

Significant Scientific Methods

Field Testing Protocols: Utilizing standardized testing methods to evaluate the performance of building envelope components under various conditions.

Leak Investigation Techniques: Employing advanced diagnostic tools and methodologies to accurately identify sources of moisture intrusion.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

M. C. – Vice President of Professional Services

M. A. – Owner

S. F. – Executive Vice President

S. S. – Vice President, Commissioning

T. L. – Vice President

Professional Backgrounds and Contributions

M. C. Oversees professional services, ensuring high-quality consulting and testing standards.

M. A. As the owner, provides strategic direction and leadership, fostering growth and innovation within the company.

S. F. Leads operational strategies, focusing on service delivery and client satisfaction.

S. S. Manages commissioning processes, ensuring systems are designed, installed, and tested to meet project requirements.

T. L. Provides leadership in various operational aspects, contributing to the company's overall success.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The building envelope consulting market is experiencing growth due to increasing awareness of moisture-related issues and their impact on building integrity. This growth is driven by the need for durable and resilient construction practices, especially in regions prone to water intrusion.

Competitor Analysis

Exponent, Inc.: A multidisciplinary firm offering engineering and scientific consulting services, including building envelope assessments.

Wiss & Company, LLP: Provides forensic engineering and consulting services, specializing in building envelope evaluations.

NV5: Offers professional and technical engineering solutions, including building envelope consulting.

ECS: Provides geotechnical, environmental, and construction materials testing services, including building envelope assessments.

Terracon: A consulting engineering firm offering services in geotechnical, environmental, and materials testing, including building envelope evaluations.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The merger with Salas O'Brien has significantly enhanced MIS's market position, providing access to a broader client base and additional resources. This collaboration enables the delivery of more comprehensive and integrated building envelope solutions.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

The integration with Salas O'Brien allows MIS to leverage a larger network of offices and a diverse team, enhancing its ability to serve clients across North America. This expansion positions the company to undertake more complex and large-scale projects, strengthening its competitive edge in the market.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Roadmap and Expansion

MIS aims to expand its service offerings by integrating advanced technologies and methodologies, enhancing its capabilities in building envelope consulting. The company plans to focus on sustainable and resilient building practices, aligning with industry trends towards eco-friendly and durable construction solutions.

Future Objectives