In-Person Breakfast Meeting: Restoring Resilience

Restoring Resilience

As concrete structures age, the need for effective assessment and   restoration strategies continues to rise. Forensic and Restoration Engineers   play a key role in diagnosing deterioration, selecting appropriate   investigative methods, and designing durable, cost-effective repairs. This   presentation highlights a series of case studies involving structural   concrete systems for parking garages, elevated slabs, podium decks, and   façades. Each of these projects required tailored solutions to restore   integrity and extend the service life of the structures.

A central focus is the use of non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques such as ground-penetrating radar, rebound hammer testing, and relative elevation surveys. These tools enable engineers to assess damage without intrusive sampling. In parallel, advances in digital tools, such as photogrammetry, have transformed documentation workflows, allowing the creation of 3D models to quantify and track distress over time. These models also provide clearer communication with stakeholders and more precise repair planning.

The presentation also emphasizes how NDT results are often validated   through selective exploratory openings to ensure accuracy. Repair strategies   developed in response to observed conditions are tailored to address client goals and consider factors such as budget, durability, and constructability. Each case study demonstrates the integration of assessment and repair, reinforcing the value of a tailored approach.

Attendees will leave with practical insights into how diagnostic tools and restoration techniques can be effectively combined to solve complex challenges in concrete structures.