Types of Remedial Engineering Solutions

Types of Remedial Engineering Solutions

Remedial Engineering Solutions involve the rectification of failed or damaged land and structures that pose a risk to people and property. Using their expertise in both the built environment and the impact of environmental factors, Remedial Engineers are engaged to investigate damage, diagnose underlying issues and provide solutions. 

Building Diagnostics 

When a structure is damaged, a remedial engineer may be engaged to carry out a thorough investigation into the ultimate cause and provide practical solutions for all building faults. Using their expertise and experience, a detailed diagnostic report will be filed outlining the building’s underlying structural issues to determine the best solution. 

Diagnostic services may include:

  • Remedial building specifications and scope of works
  • Building condition reports
  • Water penetration reports
  • Cracking reports
  • Dilapidation reports
Project Management for Remedial Engineering Solutions

After a structure’s underlying faults have been diagnosed and the cause of damage has been diagnosed, work can begin to rebuild the structural integrity of the building. A project management service will ensure that the proposed remedial solution is completed to a high standard. Using the diagnostic report issued by a remedial engineer, a project manager will ensure the building’s faults are addressed to prevent further damage from occurring. 

Project management services may include:

  • Regular site inspections
  • Status reports 
  • Compliance assessments
  • Administration of contract conditions
  • Principal or Contractor dispute resolution
  • Work quality certification
  • Payment claim assessment
  • Management of defect process
  • Practical completion certification
Concrete Spalling

Spalling is the degradation of a concrete structure due to the corrosion of the structure’s steel reinforcement. Characterised by cracks in the concrete, rust stains, bubbling in the render and leaks, it is a common structural problem that can be repaired easily when detected early. However, if concrete spalling is not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner, it can lead to significant structural issues. Using their extensive knowledge, remedial engineers will determine the best corrective solution to preserve and repair any concrete structure. 

Facade Assessment for Remedial Engineering Solutions

Remedial engineers use a combination of diagnostic investigation, observation and abseiling methods to ensure a detailed and accurate evaluation of the entirety of a structure’s facade. This condition assessment allows remedial experts to detect and diagnose any necessary structural improvements.  Remedial engineering solutions may include:

  • Remedial cavity wall ties
  • Repointing
  • Brickwork reconstruction
  • Render repairs and re-skimming
  • Lintel replacement
  • Cavity flashing replacement
  • Re-skinning of external brickwork
Waterproofing

Failures in a structure’s waterproofing can have detrimental effects of a building’s structural integrity. Water leaks can cause concrete spalling and mould, weakening the building’s structure. Waterproofing issues can arise due to wear and tear over time, or the improper application of waterproofing product. Remedial engineers are experts at determining the source of water penetration and executing strategies and long term solutions.

Building Defect Reports and Expert Witness Reports

Using their extensive knowledge and experience, remedial engineers will detect any defects in your building and offer detailed reports in line with the Australian standards for litigation matters. If looking to pursue litigation, a remedial engineer will provide an Expert Witness Report outlining any non-compliance with the Australian Standards, Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the National Construction Code (NCC).

Elite Australian Engineers are experts in the diagnosis and reparation of structural damage. Our team of remedial engineers are available to identify any structural weakness within your building, and provide cost effective and timely solutions to prevent further damage. Get in touch today.

When should a remedial engineer be consulted?

When should a remedial engineer be consulted?

What is a remedial engineer?

A remedial engineer is a specialist engineer that focuses on rectifying structures or land that has failed or been damaged and now poses a risk to individuals and property. They have considerable expertise in diagnosing structural issues and designing repair plans for unstable structures.

While the remediation of structures is a relatively new field in the construction industry, the need for remedial engineers has grown significantly in recent years. Given the changing nature of building processes and materials, a remedial engineer is often required to assess the structural requirements as a general builder is not qualified to understand the impacts that structural changes may have on the overall structure of a building.

Unlike general builders, the expertise of remedial engineers extends beyond the built environment into external forces that may affect the structural stability of the building. 

This includes:

  • Land stability
  • Soil drainage
  • Soil settlement and other movements
  • Land moisture
When should I consult a remedial engineer?

A remedial engineer should be consulted as soon as you identify any damage to your structure or the land on which it is built, including:

  • Cracks in your retaining walls
  • Moving concrete
  • Windows and/or doors that no longer sit square
  • Land slippage

Remedial engineers may also be consulted if an aging building is beginning to degrade and upgrades must be implemented to further the lifespan of the structure. Remedial engineers have the knowledge and experience to identify the structure’s weakness, whether it is from the land, external forces or a failed structure, and put corrective actions into place to prevent further damage. 

Why consult a Remedial Engineer?

When a remedial engineer is consulted, they will determine the origin of distress within the structure before eliminating the cause of distress and any damaged material. They will then construct a plan to extend the life of a building through reconstruction and/or renewal of the structure. Through their expertise in the area, remedial engineers will select and apply appropriate materials to repair and protect the damaged structure in order to prevent any further deterioration. 

In order for building repairs to be cost-effective and long-lasting, it is essential to employ a specially trained professional with knowledge and experience in building remediation to identify the root cause and provide efficient solutions.  

Elite Australian Engineers are experts in the diagnosis and reparation of failing structures. Our team of remedial engineers are available to identify any structural weakness within your building and provide cost-effective and timely solutions to prevent further damage. Contact us today.