Factoring in Structural Engineer Consultations

Factoring in Structural Engineer Consultations

Importance of regular inspections and monitoring to ensure the longevity of foundation repairs

Overview of common foundation issues that require expert evaluation


When it comes to ensuring the safety and stability of a structure, understanding common foundation issues is crucial. Foundation drainage solutions help prevent water-related damage foundation repair expert service masonry. These problems often necessitate the expertise of a structural engineer to properly evaluate and address them. Here's an overview of some frequent foundation issues that warrant professional consultation.

One of the most prevalent issues is settling. Over time, the soil beneath a foundation can shift, causing the structure to settle unevenly. This can lead to cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings, and may even result in doors and windows becoming misaligned. While some settling is normal, excessive settling can compromise the integrity of the building and requires a thorough evaluation by a structural engineer.

Another common problem is heaving, which occurs when the soil beneath the foundation expands, often due to moisture changes. This can push the foundation upwards, causing significant structural issues. Heaving is particularly problematic in areas with expansive soils, such as clay, which absorb water and swell. A structural engineer can assess the extent of the heaving and recommend appropriate solutions to mitigate its effects.

Cracks in the foundation are a visible sign of potential issues. Not all cracks are cause for alarm, but large or widening cracks can indicate serious problems such as shifting soil, poor construction, or even water damage. A structural engineer will examine the type, location, and extent of the cracks to determine the underlying cause and recommend necessary repairs.

Water damage is another critical issue that often affects foundations. Excessive moisture can lead to erosion, weakening the soil beneath the foundation and causing it to shift or settle. Additionally, water can seep into the foundation itself, leading to mold growth and further deterioration. Structural engineers are trained to identify sources of water intrusion and develop strategies to prevent future damage.

Lastly, poor drainage around the property can exacerbate foundation issues. Inadequate grading or malfunctioning gutters can lead to water accumulation near the foundation, increasing the risk of erosion and water damage. A structural engineer can evaluate the site's drainage systems and suggest improvements to protect the foundation.

In conclusion, while some foundation issues may seem minor, they can escalate into significant problems if left unaddressed. Consulting a structural engineer ensures that these issues are properly evaluated and managed, safeguarding the structural integrity and longevity of the building.

Explanation of the role of structural engineers in assessing foundation problems


Certainly! When discussing the role of structural engineers in assessing foundation problems, it's important to understand the critical nature of their expertise in ensuring the safety and stability of any structure. Foundation problems can manifest in various forms, such as cracks in walls, uneven floors, or doors and windows that stick. These issues may seem minor at first glance, but they can indicate more significant underlying problems that, if left unchecked, could compromise the integrity of the entire building.

Structural engineers are trained professionals who possess a deep understanding of the principles of physics, materials science, and engineering. Their role in assessing foundation problems begins with a thorough site investigation. This involves a detailed inspection of the visible signs of distress, as well as a review of the building's history and construction documents. It may also include soil testing to understand the ground conditions beneath the foundation.

Once the initial assessment is complete, the structural engineer will analyze the data collected to determine the root cause of the foundation issues. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as poor soil conditions, inadequate design, construction errors, or environmental changes like flooding or drought. The engineer will then develop a repair strategy that is tailored to the specific issues identified.

This strategy may involve a range of solutions, from simple repairs like crack injection or moisture control to more complex interventions such as underpinning, where additional support is added beneath the existing foundation. The structural engineer will also consider the long-term implications of their proposed solutions, ensuring that the repairs are not only effective in the short term but also sustainable over the life of the building.

Throughout the repair process, the structural engineer plays a vital role in overseeing the work to ensure that it is carried out according to the plans and specifications. They may also conduct periodic inspections to monitor the progress of the repairs and make any necessary adjustments to the strategy.

In conclusion, the role of structural engineers in assessing and addressing foundation problems is indispensable. Their expertise ensures that the solutions implemented are safe, effective, and durable, providing peace of mind to building owners and occupants alike. Their consultation is a critical factor in maintaining the structural integrity and longevity of any building.

Discussion on the benefits of early consultation with structural engineers for foundation repair


When it comes to foundation repair, many homeowners instinctively think about the obvious steps: calling a contractor, budgeting for the repairs, and possibly even doing a bit of DIY research. However, an often-overlooked, yet crucial, step is consulting with a structural engineer early on in the process. Here are several compelling reasons why this is beneficial.

Firstly, a structural engineer has specialized knowledge and training. They understand the nuances of soil conditions, material strengths, and load-bearing capacities. When you consult with them early, they can provide insights that a general contractor might not have. This can lead to more effective and long-lasting solutions for your foundation issues.

Secondly, early consultation can save you money in the long run. It might seem counterintuitive to spend money on an engineer's fee when you're already budgeting for repairs. However, a structural engineer can identify underlying issues that, if left unaddressed, could lead to more significant problems down the line. By catching these issues early, you can avoid costly repairs in the future.

Thirdly, a structural engineer can offer peace of mind. Foundation issues can be daunting, especially if you're not well-versed in construction or engineering. Knowing that a professional has reviewed your situation and provided recommendations can alleviate a lot of stress and uncertainty.

Lastly, in some cases, consulting with a structural engineer can be a requirement for insurance claims or warranties. If you're looking to claim damages or ensure that your repairs are covered, having an engineer's report can strengthen your case.

In conclusion, while it might seem like an added step, consulting with a structural engineer early in the foundation repair process offers numerous benefits. From specialized knowledge and potential cost savings to peace of mind and potential insurance benefits, the advantages are clear. So, the next time you notice signs of foundation issues, consider picking up the phone and giving a structural engineer a call.

Steps involved in the consultation process with a structural engineer for foundation repair


Certainly! When it comes to foundation repair, consulting with a structural engineer is a crucial step to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved in this consultation process:

Firstly, you'll want to gather some initial information. This includes taking note of any visible signs of foundation issues such as cracks in walls, uneven floors, or doors and windows that stick. It's also helpful to have any past records of the property, including previous repairs or inspections.

Next, you'll need to find a reputable structural engineer. Look for someone with experience in foundation repair and check their credentials and reviews from past clients. Once you've chosen an engineer, schedule an appointment for them to visit your property.

During the visit, the engineer will conduct a thorough inspection of the foundation. They'll look at the cracks, measure any displacement, and assess the overall condition of the foundation. They may also use specialized tools to get a better understanding of the issue.

After the inspection, the engineer will provide you with a detailed report. This report will outline their findings, the cause of the foundation issues, and recommend repair solutions. They'll explain the pros and cons of each option and provide cost estimates.

You'll then have the opportunity to discuss the recommendations with the engineer. Ask any questions you may have and seek clarification on any points you're unsure about. This is your chance to understand the repair process and make an informed decision.

Once you've reviewed the recommendations and costs, you can decide on the best course of action. If you choose to proceed with the repairs, the engineer can help you find a reliable contractor to implement the recommended solutions.

Throughout the repair process, the structural engineer may be available for consultation to ensure the work is being done correctly. After the repairs are completed, they may also conduct a final inspection to confirm that the foundation is stable and the issues have been resolved.

In conclusion, consulting with a structural engineer for foundation repair is a multi-step process that involves gathering information, finding a reputable engineer, conducting an inspection, reviewing recommendations, making a decision, and potentially seeking further consultation during and after the repair process. This ensures that the foundation issues are addressed effectively and safely.

Factors to consider when choosing a structural engineer for residential foundation repair services


When it comes to ensuring the stability and safety of your home, choosing the right structural engineer for foundation repair services is crucial. A well-qualified engineer can make all the difference in diagnosing problems accurately and recommending effective solutions. Here are several key factors to consider when selecting a structural engineer for residential foundation repair.

First and foremost, experience matters. Look for an engineer with a proven track record in foundation repair. An engineer who has handled similar projects in your area is likely to understand the specific soil conditions and common issues that affect homes in your neighborhood. Experience often translates to a deeper understanding of the nuances involved in foundation work, which can lead to more reliable and durable solutions.

Credentials and qualifications are another critical consideration. Ensure that the engineer is licensed and certified by relevant professional bodies. This not only signifies their competency but also provides a layer of protection for you as the client. Licensed engineers adhere to strict ethical and professional standards, which can give you peace of mind knowing that your project is in capable hands.

References and reviews can offer valuable insights into an engineer's reputation and the quality of their work. Don't hesitate to ask for references from past clients. Speaking directly with them can provide a realistic perspective on what to expect. Additionally, online reviews and testimonials can offer a broader view of the engineer's reliability and customer satisfaction.

Communication is another vital factor. A good structural engineer should be able to explain complex technical details in a way that's easy to understand. Clear and consistent communication ensures that you are well-informed about the diagnosis, proposed solutions, and the expected timeline for repairs. An engineer who takes the time to listen to your concerns and answers your questions thoroughly is more likely to provide a service that meets your needs.

Cost is naturally a significant consideration. While it's important to find a service that fits within your budget, be cautious of quotes that seem too good to be true. Foundation repair is a specialized service that requires expertise, and cutting corners can lead to subpar results. Obtain multiple quotes and compare not just the prices, but also the scope of work and the reputation of the engineers providing those quotes.

Lastly, consider the engineer's approach to problem-solving. A proactive engineer will not only identify the issues but will also offer practical, long-term solutions. They should be willing to discuss alternative methods and help you understand the pros and cons of each option. This collaborative approach ensures that you are an active participant in the decision-making process.

In summary, choosing the right structural engineer for residential foundation repair involves careful consideration of their experience, credentials, communication skills, cost, and problem-solving approach. Taking the time to vet potential engineers thoroughly can lead to a more successful and stress-free repair process, ultimately safeguarding the foundation of your home for years to come.

Case studies showcasing successful outcomes of structural engineer consultations in foundation repair projects


When it comes to foundation repair projects, the consultation of a structural engineer can be a game changer. These professionals possess invaluable expertise that can help identify underlying issues, recommend effective solutions, and ensure that repairs are done correctly and sustainably. Several case studies highlight the transformative impact of structural engineer consultations in foundation repair projects.

One notable case involves a historic building in downtown Chicago that had been experiencing significant foundation settling. The property owners had attempted multiple DIY solutions without success. Upon consulting a structural engineer, a detailed assessment revealed that the issue was due to expansive clay soils that were causing the foundation to heave and settle unevenly. The engineer recommended a combination of deep foundation piers and soil stabilization techniques. Following the engineer's plan, the repairs were not only successful in stabilizing the foundation but also preserved the historical integrity of the building.

In another instance, a suburban home in Texas faced severe foundation cracking due to the region's notorious expansivity of clay soils. The homeowners had grown increasingly frustrated with the recurring cracks, despite several attempts at repair. A structural engineer was brought in to consult on the project. The engineer conducted a thorough soil analysis and stress test on the foundation. It was discovered that the original foundation design was inadequate for the soil conditions. The engineer proposed a comprehensive solution involving helical piers to transfer the home's load to more stable soil layers. The result was a permanent fix that eliminated the cracking and provided peace of mind to the homeowners.

A third example comes from a commercial property in California that had suffered foundation damage due to nearby construction activities. The building's occupants reported uneven floors and visible cracks in the walls. A structural engineer was consulted to assess the situation. The engineer identified that the nearby construction had altered the soil compaction around the building, leading to differential settlement. A targeted repair strategy was developed, involving the installation of push piers to lift and level the affected areas. The engineer's expertise ensured that the repairs were precise and effective, minimizing downtime for the business.

These case studies underscore the critical role that structural engineer consultations play in foundation repair projects. Their deep understanding of soil mechanics, structural dynamics, and innovative repair techniques can turn seemingly intractable problems into manageable solutions. Whether it's a historic building, a suburban home, or a commercial property, the input of a structural engineer can make all the difference in achieving successful and lasting outcomes.



Interior of part of a damaged home in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina
Family photographs damaged by flooding
A smaller and more minor water spot caused by rainwater leaking through a roof

Water damage describes various possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting of wood, mold growth, bacteria growth, rusting of steel, swelling of composite woods, de-laminating of materials such as plywood, short-circuiting of electrical devices, etc.

The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots that could eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as burst pipes and flooding. However fast it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to loss of property.

An insurance policy may or may not cover the costs associated with water damage and the process of water damage restoration. While a common cause of residential water damage is often the failure of a sump pump, many homeowner's insurance policies do not cover the associated costs without an addendum which adds to the monthly premium of the policy. Often the verbiage of this addendum is similar to "Sewer and Drain Coverage".

In the United States, those individuals who are affected by wide-scale flooding may have the ability to apply for government and FEMA grants through the Individual Assistance program.[1] On a larger level, businesses, cities, and communities can apply to the FEMA Public Assistance program for funds to assist after a large flood. For example, the city of Fond du Lac Wisconsin received $1.2 million FEMA grant after flooding in June 2008. The program allows the city to purchase the water damaged properties, demolish the structures, and turn the former land into public green space.[citation needed]

Causes

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Water damage can originate by different sources such as a broken dishwasher hose, a washing machine overflow, a dishwasher leakage, broken/leaking pipes, flood waters, groundwater seepage, building envelope failures (leaking roof, windows, doors, siding, etc.) and clogged toilets. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 13.7% of all water used in the home today can be attributed to plumbing leaks.[2] On average that is approximately 10,000 gallons of water per year wasted by leaks for each US home. A tiny, 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day.[3] According to Claims Magazine in August 2000, broken water pipes ranked second to hurricanes in terms of both the number of homes damaged and the amount of claims (on average $50,000 per insurance claim[citation needed]) costs in the US.[4] Experts suggest that homeowners inspect and replace worn pipe fittings and hose connections to all household appliances that use water at least once a year. This includes washing machines, dishwashers, kitchen sinks, and bathroom lavatories, refrigerator icemakers, water softeners, and humidifiers. A few US companies offer whole-house leak protection systems utilizing flow-based technologies. A number of insurance companies offer policyholders reduced rates for installing a whole-house leak protection system.

As far as insurance coverage is concerned, damage caused by surface water intrusion to the dwelling is considered flood damage and is normally excluded from coverage under traditional homeowners' insurance. Surface water is water that enters the dwelling from the surface of the ground because of inundation or insufficient drainage and causes loss to the dwelling. Coverage for surface water intrusion[5] to the dwelling would usually require a separate flood insurance policy.

Categories

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There are three basic categories of water damage, based on the level of contamination.

Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.

Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to. Known as "grey water". This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of micro-organisms. Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.

Category 3 Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 category are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, storm surge, ground surface water or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or have remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back flows that originates from beyond the toilet trap is considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color.[6]

Classes

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Class of water damage is determined by the probable rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected, or wet, in the room or space that was flooded. Determining the class of water damage is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to dry-down the structure.[7]

Class 1 - Slow Rate of Evaporation. Affects only a portion of a room. Materials have a low permeance/porosity. Minimum moisture is absorbed by the materials. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 1 be indicated when <5% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 2 - Fast Rate of Evaporation. Water affects the entire room of carpet and cushion. May have wicked up the walls, but not more than 24 inches. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 2 be indicated when 5% to 40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 3 - Fastest Rate of Evaporation. Water generally comes from overhead, affecting the entire area; walls, ceilings, insulation, carpet, cushion, etc. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 3 be indicated when >40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations. Involves materials with a very low permeance/porosity, such as hardwood floors, concrete, crawlspaces, gypcrete, plaster, etc. Drying generally requires very low specific humidity to accomplish drying.

Restoration

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Water damage restoration can be performed by property management teams, building maintenance personnel, or by the homeowners themselves; however, contacting a certified professional water damage restoration specialist is often regarded as the safest way to restore water damaged property. Certified professional water damage restoration specialists utilize psychrometrics to monitor the drying process.[8]

Standards and regulation

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While there are currently no government regulations in the United States dictating procedures, two certifying bodies, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the RIA, do recommend standards of care. The current IICRC standard is ANSI/IICRC S500-2021.[9] It is the collaborative work of the IICRC, SCRT, IEI, IAQA, and NADCA.

Fire and Water Restoration companies are regulated by the appropriate state's Department of Consumer Affairs - usually the state contractors license board. In California, all Fire and Water Restoration companies must register with the California Contractors State License Board.[10] Presently, the California Contractors State License Board has no specific classification for "water and fire damage restoration."

Procedures

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Water damage restoration is often prefaced by a loss assessment and evaluation of affected materials. The damaged area is inspected with water sensing equipment such as probes and other infrared tools in order to determine the source of the damage and possible extent of areas affected. Emergency mitigation services are the first order of business. Controlling the source of water, removal of non-salvageable materials, water extraction and pre-cleaning of impacted materials are all part of the mitigation process. Restoration services would then be rendered to the property in order to dry the structure, stabilize building materials, sanitize any affected or cross-contaminated areas, and deodorize all affected areas and materials. After the labor is completed, water damage equipment including air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, wood floor drying systems, and sub-floor drying equipment is left in the residence. The goal of the drying process is to stabilize the moisture content of impacted materials below 15%, the generally accepted threshold for microbial amplification. Industry standards state that drying vendors should return at regular time intervals, preferably every twenty-four hours, to monitor the equipment, temperature, humidity, and moisture content of the affected walls and contents.[6] In conclusion, key aspects of water damage restoration include fast action, adequate equipment, moisture measurements, and structural drying. Dehumidification is especially crucial for structural components affected by water damage, such as wooden beams, flooring, and drywall.

See also

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  • Indoor mold

References

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  1. ^ "Individual Disaster Assistance". DisasterAssistance.gov. Retrieved 2009-09-28.
  2. ^ "How We Use Water". 16 January 2017.
  3. ^ The University of Maine Corporate Extension – www.umext.maine.edu
  4. ^ Herndon Jr., Everette L.; Yang, Chin S. (August 2000). "Mold & Mildew: A Creeping Catastrophe". Claims Magazine. Archived from the original on 2000-08-15. Retrieved November 4, 2016.
  5. ^ Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction and Maintenance. December 2013.
  6. ^ "Water Damage Restoration Guideline" (PDF). Northern Arizona University. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2013-06-26. Retrieved 2 September 2014.
  7. ^ "The Basics Of Water Damage Restoration Training". www.iicrc.org. Retrieved 2016-11-03.
  8. ^ "Chapter 6: Psychrometry and the Science of Drying". IICRC Standards Subscription Site. Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Retrieved 27 September 2020.
  9. ^ "ANSI/IICRC S500 Water Damage Restoration". IICRC. 22 December 2020. Retrieved 14 February 2022.
  10. ^ "California Contractors State License Board". State of California. Retrieved 2010-08-29.
Various examples of ornate ceilings

A ceiling /ˈsiːlɪŋ/ is an overhead interior roof that covers the upper limits of a room. It is not generally considered a structural element, but a finished surface concealing the underside of the roof structure or the floor of a story above. Ceilings can be decorated to taste, and there are many examples of frescoes and artwork on ceilings, especially within religious buildings. A ceiling can also be the upper limit of a tunnel.

The most common type of ceiling is the dropped ceiling,[citation needed] which is suspended from structural elements above. Panels of drywall are fastened either directly to the ceiling joists or to a few layers of moisture-proof plywood which are then attached to the joists. Pipework or ducts can be run in the gap above the ceiling, and insulation and fireproofing material can be placed here. Alternatively, ceilings may be spray painted instead, leaving the pipework and ducts exposed but painted, and using spray foam.

A subset of the dropped ceiling is the suspended ceiling, wherein a network of aluminum struts, as opposed to drywall, are attached to the joists, forming a series of rectangular spaces. Individual pieces of cardboard are then placed inside the bottom of those spaces so that the outer side of the cardboard, interspersed with aluminum rails, is seen as the ceiling from below. This makes it relatively easy to repair the pipes and insulation behind the ceiling, since all that is necessary is to lift off the cardboard, rather than digging through the drywall and then replacing it.

Other types of ceiling include the cathedral ceiling, the concave or barrel-shaped ceiling, the stretched ceiling and the coffered ceiling. Coving often links the ceiling to the surrounding walls. Ceilings can play a part in reducing fire hazard, and a system is available for rating the fire resistance of dropped ceilings.

Types

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California tract home with an open-beam ceiling, 1960

Ceilings are classified according to their appearance or construction. A cathedral ceiling is any tall ceiling area similar to those in a church. A dropped ceiling is one in which the finished surface is constructed anywhere from a few inches or centimeters to several feet or a few meters below the structure above it. This may be done for aesthetic purposes, such as achieving a desirable ceiling height; or practical purposes such as acoustic damping or providing a space for HVAC or piping. An inverse of this would be a raised floor. A concave or barrel-shaped ceiling is curved or rounded upward, usually for visual or acoustical value, while a coffered ceiling is divided into a grid of recessed square or octagonal panels, also called a "lacunar ceiling". A cove ceiling uses a curved plaster transition between wall and ceiling; it is named for cove molding, a molding with a concave curve.[1] A stretched ceiling (or stretch ceiling) uses a number of individual panels using material such as PVC fixed to a perimeter rail.[2]

Elements

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Ceilings have frequently been decorated with fresco painting, mosaic tiles and other surface treatments. While hard to execute (at least in place) a decorated ceiling has the advantage that it is largely protected from damage by fingers and dust. In the past, however, this was more than compensated for by the damage from smoke from candles or a fireplace. Many historic buildings have celebrated ceilings. Perhaps the most famous is the Sistine Chapel ceiling by Michelangelo.

Ceiling height, particularly in the case of low ceilings, may have psychological impacts. [3]

Fire-resistance rated ceilings

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The most common ceiling that contributes to fire-resistance ratings in commercial and residential construction is the dropped ceiling. In the case of a dropped ceiling, the rating is achieved by the entire system, which is both the structure above, from which the ceilings is suspended, which could be a concrete floor or a timber floor, as well as the suspension mechanism and, finally the lowest membrane or dropped ceiling. Between the structure that the dropped ceiling is suspended from and the dropped membrane, such as a T-bar ceiling or a layer of drywall, there is often some room for mechanical and electrical piping, wiring and ducting to run.

An independent ceiling, however, can be constructed such that it has a stand-alone fire-resistance rating. Such systems must be tested without the benefit of being suspended from a slab above in order to prove that the resulting system is capable of holding itself up. This type of ceiling would be installed to protect items above from fire.

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See also

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  • Beam ceiling
  • Hammerbeam roof
  • Hollow-core slab
  • Moulding (decorative)
  • Popcorn ceiling
  • Scottish Renaissance painted ceilings
  • Tin ceiling
  • Passive fire protection
  • Fire test
  • Hy-Rib

References

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  1. ^ "Casa de las Ratas 2/2/2003". Archived from the original on September 29, 2008. Retrieved September 14, 2008.
  2. ^ Corky Binggeli (2011). Interior Graphic Standards: Student Edition. John Wiley & Sons. p. 220. ISBN 978-1-118-09935-3.
  3. ^ Meyers-Levy, Joan; Zhu, Rui (Juliet) (August 2007). "The Influence of Ceiling Height: The Effect of Priming on the Type of Processing That People Use". Journal of Consumer Research. 34 (2): 174–186. doi:10.1086/519146. JSTOR 10.1086/519146. S2CID 16607244.
  4. ^ Melvin, Jeremy (2006). …isme Să ÎnÈ›elegem Stilurile Arhitecturale (in Romanian). Enciclopedia RAO. p. 39. ISBN 973-717-075-X.
  5. ^ Bresc-Bautier, Geneviève (2008). The Louvre, a Tale of a Palace. Musée du Louvre Éditions. p. 26. ISBN 978-2-7572-0177-0.
  6. ^ Bresc-Bautier, Geneviève (2008). The Louvre, a Tale of a Palace. Musée du Louvre Éditions. p. 30. ISBN 978-2-7572-0177-0.
  7. ^ Bresc-Bautier, Geneviève (2008). The Louvre, a Tale of a Palace. Musée du Louvre Éditions. p. 55. ISBN 978-2-7572-0177-0.
  8. ^ Bresc-Bautier, Geneviève (2008). The Louvre, a Tale of a Palace. Musée du Louvre Éditions. p. 106. ISBN 978-2-7572-0177-0.
  9. ^ Bresc-Bautier, Geneviève (2008). The Louvre, a Tale of a Palace. Musée du Louvre Éditions. p. 138. ISBN 978-2-7572-0177-0.
  10. ^ Marinache, Oana (2015). Ernest Donaud - visul liniei (in Romanian). Editura Istoria Artei. p. 79. ISBN 978-606-94042-8-7.
[edit]
  • Media related to Ceilings at Wikimedia Commons
  • "Ceiling" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 5 (11th ed.). 1911.
  • "Ceiling" . New International Encyclopedia. 1904.
  • Merriam-Webster ceiling definition

 

 

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Reviews for


Jeffery James

(5)

Very happy with my experience. They were prompt and followed through, and very helpful in fixing the crack in my foundation.

Sarah McNeily

(5)

USS was excellent. They are honest, straightforward, trustworthy, and conscientious. They thoughtfully removed the flowers and flower bulbs to dig where they needed in the yard, replanted said flowers and spread the extra dirt to fill in an area of the yard. We've had other services from different companies and our yard was really a mess after. They kept the job site meticulously clean. The crew was on time and friendly. I'd recommend them any day! Thanks to Jessie and crew.

Jim de Leon

(5)

It was a pleasure to work with Rick and his crew. From the beginning, Rick listened to my concerns and what I wished to accomplish. Out of the 6 contractors that quoted the project, Rick seemed the MOST willing to accommodate my wishes. His pricing was definitely more than fair as well. I had 10 push piers installed to stabilize and lift an addition of my house. The project commenced at the date that Rick had disclosed initially and it was completed within the same time period expected (based on Rick's original assessment). The crew was well informed, courteous, and hard working. They were not loud (even while equipment was being utilized) and were well spoken. My neighbors were very impressed on how polite they were when they entered / exited my property (saying hello or good morning each day when they crossed paths). You can tell they care about the customer concerns. They ensured that the property would be put back as clean as possible by placing MANY sheets of plywood down prior to excavating. They compacted the dirt back in the holes extremely well to avoid large stock piles of soils. All the while, the main office was calling me to discuss updates and expectations of completion. They provided waivers of lien, certificates of insurance, properly acquired permits, and JULIE locates. From a construction background, I can tell you that I did not see any flaws in the way they operated and this an extremely professional company. The pictures attached show the push piers added to the foundation (pictures 1, 2 & 3), the amount of excavation (picture 4), and the restoration after dirt was placed back in the pits and compacted (pictures 5, 6 & 7). Please notice that they also sealed two large cracks and steel plated these cracks from expanding further (which you can see under my sliding glass door). I, as well as my wife, are extremely happy that we chose United Structural Systems for our contractor. I would happily tell any of my friends and family to use this contractor should the opportunity arise!

Chris Abplanalp

(5)

USS did an amazing job on my underpinning on my house, they were also very courteous to the proximity of my property line next to my neighbor. They kept things in order with all the dirt/mud they had to excavate. They were done exactly in the timeframe they indicated, and the contract was very details oriented with drawings of what would be done. Only thing that would have been nice, is they left my concrete a little muddy with boot prints but again, all-in-all a great job

Dave Kari

(5)

What a fantastic experience! Owner Rick Thomas is a trustworthy professional. Nick and the crew are hard working, knowledgeable and experienced. I interviewed every company in the area, big and small. A homeowner never wants to hear that they have foundation issues. Out of every company, I trusted USS the most, and it paid off in the end. Highly recommend.

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