By Paola Solis
El Inmobiliario
He called on authorities, construction companies, and private owners to become aware of the importance of caring for built heritage.
SANTO DOMINGO – Building maintenance not only ensures functionality and aesthetics, but also plays a fundamental role in the safety of those who live in or use them daily. This was explained yesterday by civil engineer and geologist Luis Camil Caraballo, who maintained that it is one of the most effective long-term cost savings.
“Maintaining structures is crucial to ensuring safety and extending what we call the useful life, that is, the time during which a building can be in operation without posing a risk,” the specialist stated during an interview with El Inmobiliario.
He emphasized that this process allows for the timely identification of faults, their correction, and the prevention of greater damage.
According to Caballo, the value of structural maintenance is often underestimated, when in reality it represents one of the most effective ways to save money in the long run. “Detecting and fixing problems before they worsen minimizes repair costs and ensures structural integrity. It’s not just about taking care of the building, but about protecting human lives,” he emphasized.
Regarding the frequency of maintenance, the professional explained that there is no single period applicable to all buildings. “The correct approach is to maintain a habit of continuous inspection. Each structure has particular needs, so inspections should be carried out regularly to determine the ideal time to take action,” he said.
The engineer detailed the different types of maintenance: preventive, corrective, and predictive. Preventive maintenance is performed before visible problems appear; corrective maintenance comes into play when damage has already occurred; and predictive maintenance anticipates future failures based on technical studies and structural behavior.
He also shared practical examples: “In buildings, maintenance can include cleaning, painting, crack repair, ventilation, air conditioning, and electrical system inspections. In structures like bridges, beams are inspected, cracks are repaired, anti-corrosive paint is applied, and foundation settlements are monitored,” he explained.
Caraballo also highlighted the diversity of professionals involved in building maintenance. “Depending on the type of structure and the problem, the team can range from air conditioning technicians to structural engineers. The key is to form multidisciplinary teams that can provide a comprehensive solution,” he stated.
The geologist also warned that neglecting maintenance can have serious consequences. “The structure begins to deteriorate progressively. Neglect allows nature to reclaim the space. For example, if you leave a street unused for a week, grass will start growing over the asphalt. The same thing happens with buildings: without maintenance, they degrade until they collapse,” he emphasized.
Drawing on his experience as a structural engineer and geologist, Caraballo called on authorities, construction companies, and private property owners to recognize the importance of preserving built heritage. “Maintenance is not an expense, it’s an investment in safety and sustainability. We can prevent tragedies if we act in time,” he concluded.
Cover photo: Fidel Pérez.
