Functional recovery after an earthquake describes a building’s ability to resume essential operations within a reasonable timeframe—without requiring full reconstruction or extended closure. In practical terms, functional recovery means a building is safe to occupy and capable of supporting most of its intended uses, even if some non-critical systems still need repair. It’s often described […]
A structural inspection is often the first step in understanding what’s really going on with your building—especially if you’re located in an earthquake-prone area. You may be planning a purchase. You may have noticed cracking or movement. Or you may simply want clarity before making bigger decisions. A structural inspection helps you understand risk, safety, […]
Seismic retrofitting isn’t just about crunching numbers. It’s about how those numbers are interpreted, turned into design plans, and built in the real world. The structural engineer you choose will shape nearly every aspect of your project—from cost and complexity to safety and long-term value. But not all engineers approach seismic retrofits the same way. […]
Structural wall repair is essential to keeping your commercial or industrial building safe, strong, and aligned with SEL and SUL targets. Cracks, moisture damage, and shifting walls may seem minor, but they could signal deeper issues that put your structure (and your tenants) at risk. If you’ve noticed signs of wall damage, this guide will […]
When you’re planning a seismic retrofit, unexpected challenges can drive up costs fast. Value engineering helps you plan smarter—identifying cost-saving alternatives early, before changes become expensive or complex. With the right guidance, you can reduce expenses without sacrificing safety or long-term performance. What Is Value Engineering? Value engineering is the process of reviewing a project […]
Common structural repairs play a key role in maintaining the safety and stability of commercial and industrial buildings. These repairs focus on critical building elements like roofs, foundations, floors, exterior walls, and support columns. All types of buildings—including concrete tilt-up, masonry, steel, or wood-framed—can require repairs over time. Issues might arise from earthquakes, design flaws, […]
In California, ensuring the safety and structural integrity of balconies, decks, and similar elevated structures is more critical than ever, with the California balcony inspection law mandating compliance by January 1, 2025. This ordinance was introduced after a tragic 2015 balcony collapse in Berkeley, CA, that caused several deaths. The state now requires apartment buildings […]
It is no surprise that building designs have been evaluated closely since the pandemic. The office sector of the commercial real estate industry has been greatly affected by the shutter-in-place regulations and guidance from the CDC to have employees of non-essential companies work remotely. While many companies are finding it feasible in some industries, this […]
Engineers have learned to make buildings safer in recent decades after years of studying what happens to structures during earthquakes. Concrete is a durable choice, but concrete tilt-up buildings built in the last century pose safety risks. Over time, concrete can crack, so it’s important to have it inspected periodically to reduce maintenance costs and […]
Concrete can last many decades without needing much maintenance, which is a key reason why it’s favored as a commercial building material. Regular inspections help detect problems early to avoid expensive structural concrete crack repair. Here are important points to remember about applying seismic retrofitting for buildings with concrete tilt-up walls and how to address […]