Structural retrofitting is by definition a process performed on an existing structure to enable undamaged structural elements to carry more load than their current state. Structural reinforcement is needed for various reasons. As a result of the fact that a building has been built for a long time, it is made to eliminate the decay in the components of its carrier system and the decrease in its strength due to fatigue. In addition, structural reinforcement may also be needed to make the building more resistant to problems that may arise from the ground or any earthquake that may occur in buildings that have been built recently.
How is Structural Retrofitting Done?
The first step in the structural retrofit phase is the examination of the building by experts in this field. If there is a situation that will cause a decrease in the strength of the building for any reason, this situation is determined by the experts and it is decided how to apply reinforcement. Conditions such as slipping on the floor of the building, corrosion of steel reinforcements, decay, loss of concrete ratios of columns indicate that the building should be strengthened. Instead of demolishing and rebuilding the building where such situations are observed, the building retrofit application.
The first stage of the structural retrofit operation is an accurate and comprehensive analysis. As a result of this analysis, it is determined which stages will be applied. Rusty bars and concrete sections are also included in these strengthening operations. Loose and spilled concrete parts are removed from the structure in a controlled manner to make repairs. For the implementation of the necessary operation, the missing aspects of the structure are cleaned so that the new concrete to be laid is aimed to hold more firmly. Chemical liquids are applied to the irons that form the skeleton of the structure, especially against rusting. These chemicals prevent rusting. The columns of the building are also subjected to these processes. Thus, the structure becomes more durable.
In order to determine that the building needs to be strengthened, technical staff such as engineers, architects or technicians check whether the building is built accordingly by examining the previously made reports of the building such as the ground survey report, static project. Cores, which are hardened concrete samples, are taken from building elements (columns, beams, etc.) and subjected to pressure tests. Some experiments are performed to determine the condition of the steel reinforcements of the building (such as x-rays). As a result of such studies, the building, which is decided to be reinforced as a result of such studies, is reinforced using methods such as sheathing, steel sheathing, column sheathing, reinforced concrete sheathing, wrapping with carbon fiber material, cement or epoxy injection, plate bonding, wing attachment, floor reduction by trimming the building according to the situation, ground reinforcement.
Structural retrofit products to be used in these retrofitting processes are materials such as concrete, steel and carbon fiber. These materials ensure that the structural reinforcement of buildings is carried out smoothly by using the methods mentioned above. Thus, buildings gain strength and strength.
Structural Retrofit Techniques
Since our geography is in an earthquake zone, we need to make our buildings earthquake resistant. There is more than one way for buildings to be more earthquake resistant. It may be possible to protect against earthquakes by using the most appropriate of these ways. The number of earthquake-resistant buildings in our country is increasing day by day. So much so that buildings that are no longer earthquake resistant are demolished and rebuilt. Structural retrofitting makes buildings stronger by taking necessary precautions. Buildings that are unconscious and far from inspection can become stronger and more reliable thanks to this process. With this process, some supports are applied to the building and the building's resistance to earthquakes and wind is tried to be maximized. So which buildings need structural reinforcement?
Buildings Requiring Structural Retrofitting
If these buildings are given as an example, we can say historical buildings first and foremost. These buildings are not resistant to earthquakes etc. Since they are not made resistant to disasters, they should definitely be subjected to structural strengthening. The protection of historical buildings is very important, so cost is inevitable. After historical buildings, we can give examples of offices, apartments, stores. When it comes to these structures, the cost is of course important. We apply the most appropriate procedures by analyzing your structures with our expert teams. We make your buildings more resistant and prepared for earthquakes and disasters. Research and analysis are very important in structural reinforcement stages. Conducting appropriate analyzes will bring along the necessary operations. Thus, we will protect both your structure and your pocket by not applying unnecessary operations.