Construction Industry/drivit/dryvit question

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Expert: - 8/16/2009


Question
Hi Roger.  We have on the front facing of our house a drivit wall that is fairly empty and we would like to hang something there, but don't know how.  Can we drill through drivit without risking getting moisture in the wall?  Do you need to use anchors?  Is there something we should seal the wholes with?  We're looking at some piece of decorative artwork/metal.  Any help you can provide would be appreciated - thanks!
Kay

Answer
Hello Kay,

I am surprised to hear you have "Drivit" on a residence.  Here in Florida it was used more for apartments and commercial building.  I haven't seen it used in several years.  Yes, you should be concerned about penetrating the system that could be a potential source for water.  There are studs in the wall - probably steel.  You can create an anchor or hanger but be sure you are at a stud.  Whatever you use as an anchor or hanger, be sure and caulk very thoroughly at the penetration(s).  Also, be aware of how much weight the decorative item will be.  Hangers should have a weight rating - that is they are designed to hold a maximum weight of.....
The caulk should be an exterior grade material - and use it generously.

I hope this has been helpful.

Roger
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Roger Zona

Expertise

I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.

Experience

After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.

Organizations
Previously - NAHA Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)

Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column

Education/Credentials
Michigan State University University of Detroit BS in Engineering

Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family. I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit. I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision. I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.

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