STRUCTURAL MOMENTS...

Greetings! 

 

Learn, Adapt and Change...

  

Firms that adopt a culture of continual improvement, and can implement and sustain change, will have an advantage and the tools to survive and even grow.

 

Change is hard, expensive and can be disruptive! It requires learning new procedures, takes time away from projects, and requires retooling and new capital spending. Because of their focus on finding and minding roles, it's especially difficult for senior staff to keep up to date with changes such as learning new codes and new software.

 

However, if done properly, change can provide better efficiency and may even open new lines of service. Change can be good, especially when it improves our practice and the way we deliver projects.

 

We must adopt a culture of continual improvement where we learn from experience. Fluctuating economies demand that we continually learn, adapt, and change.

Mohammed Thomad

 

Best regards,

 

Mohammed Thomad, PE, SE

Principal

Cracking up is not a laughing matter when it comes to structural concrete

  

Over time, concrete can crack. It's a fact of life. Some cracks might not need attention, while others could have serious structural consequences. But how can you tell the difference? Much of the time you can't and expert advice is required.

Cracked Concrete Sample
Severely Cracked Concrete Sample

 

Cracks in concrete can be caused by a number of factors such as thermal expansion and contraction, sub-grade settlement and applied loads. It is important to assess whether cracks are structural in nature or not. Structural cracks can undermine the integrity of a building especially when occurring in slabs, beams, columns, walls and other load bearing members.

 

Non-structural cracks, on the other hand, are not detrimental to building integrity. However, they often need to be treated to prevent them from growing over time and eventually reaching the structural stage. Tiny fractures can also lead to other challenges. Small cracks in below-grade foundation walls, for example, can allow water to migrate into the structure and lead to further damage. Orientation and frequency of cracks is another consideration. Other warning signs are closely spaced or repetitive cracking at the same locations on each floor of a multi-story building.

 

The extent and cause of cracking must be identified prior to implement the right repair solution, if any. Building owners noticing cracks are advised to contact a structural engineer who can help determine whether or not it is a significant issue.

OCTOBER 2011

Who We Are:

 

THOMAD Engineering is a client-focused structural engineering design and consulting firm. We have been committed to providing excellent services and completing projects always above and beyond expectations since our establishment in 2003.

 

To learn more, spend a 'moment' at our website or connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook

 

View our profile on LinkedIn  Find us on Facebook

'Structural Moments' Archive: 

   

September 2011

 

Archive Homepage

 

 

 

Join Our Mailing List!

 

'Structural Moments' is a monthly e-newsletter published by the staff of THOMAD Engineering. It is intended to inform our valued clients, associates, and colleagues in the A/E/C industry and stimulate thoughtful dialogue with them.
THOMAD Engineering has been a proud member and supporter of the AIA Las Vegas chapter since 2003.
AIA Logo

 

THOMAD Engineering LLC  |  Tel. 702.388.7755  |  Fax 702.388.7766