Do I Need Wall Structural Repair?
Minor cracks in your commercial building’s walls might not seem like anything to worry about, but if left untreated, these small flaws can lead to major structural problems. Structural issues can make your building’s walls less stable and lead to significant challenges, such as rebar rusting, which can cause the concrete to break apart. It can also contribute to mold and mildew growth. The tips below can help you determine whether what seems like a small problem might warrant structural wall repair:
Structural vs Non-Structural Cracks
Hiring a structural engineer can help you determine the extent of the repairs and develop a repair scope needed for your commercial building. After this is determined, a retrofit contractor can help you develop and execute a plan for your necessary structural wall repair.
In general, there are two types of wall damage: non-structural and structural damage. A structural repair company can help you resolve both. Non-structural cracks typically involve issues related to d thermal movement, while structural damage can involve defects in walls. Structural cracks are generally 1/8″ or larger, but structural damage can include rusted rebar and sprawling of the concrete.
Commonly Used Wall Structural Repair Strategies
Structural repairs are most urgent for walls that start to experience damage to the concrete in the form of additional cracking and parts of the concrete falling off the wall. For small cracks they can be covered in elastomeric paint to keep water out of the crack. Larger cracks should be filler with epoxy to seal and bond the concrete together. Larger damage with cracks that have developed into concrete damage need to have the concrete chipped away to expose the rusted rebar, treat the rebar and in some cases dowel new rebar into the concrete panel and repair the missing concrete with high strength concrete. A specific repair procedure is followed to make sure the repair is done properly. If the crack was caused by movement then the crack could reappear.
When you seek out wall structural repair, it is important to be educated about your needs and ask your contractor any questions that arise throughout the process. Hiring a company with experience is a must. Approved methods will give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you will receive trustworthy, industry-approved repairs.
If you’re looking for a contractor for wall structural repair for your commercial building, contact Saunders Seismic for more information.