Duratec Australia was engaged by Western Power to conduct a technical survey of the external west facade of 363 Wellington Street, Perth.
Details
Most of the external survey was performed by rope access professionals who noted and photographed any visible defects.
The western facade comprises a reinforced concrete frame with brickwork infill walls, no window openings and the entire facade surface finished with a quartz coarse aggregate exposed render.
Investigations revealed the following defects: cracking of the render on the top of the concrete slab and brickwork layer, due to the lack of an expansion joint. Brickwork rotation occurred as result of only a 50% bearing area on the top of the concrete slab with no apparent steel corbel on the outer face of the concrete slab. Lack of cavity wall tie and corrosion of cavity wall ties.
A combination of detailed technical drawings complete with high quality photographic evidence with fit-for-purpose engineered recommendations were submitted to the client in a timely manner allowing for their budgetary and planning needs.
Highlights
- Rope access utilising a video camera linked to ground based engineer undertaking an initial review of the stability of the facade panels.
- All works were completed with no disruption to building occupants or visitors.
- The client received a formal report which clearly explained the issues on the facade and how they may be addressed to extend the life of the building.
Capabilities
- Condition Assessment
- Non Destructive Testing & Structural Health
