Evaluation and Repair of Extensive Cracking of a New Suspended Parking Garage Slab

The Avalon Mall parking facility is a four level above grade structure, consisting of three suspended parking levels (approximately 7,750sq.m. each) and one on-grade parking level connected to the existing mall with a new pedestrian bridge. RJC was the structural engineer of record. During construction of the parking structure extensive cracking of the suspended parking garage slabs was noted at two of the 24 pours. RJC undertook a visual assessment of the parking slabs in question to determine the extent of the noted cracking and determined over 750lin.m. of cracks ranging in size from 0.5mm to 6.5mm in width. Following the visual assessment destructive testing of the concrete was undertaken to determine its in-situ properties as well as to understand the full extent of the cracking. The destructive testing protocol included standard and non-standard tests to determine if the noted cracking was a structural concern. Based on the results of the destructive testing, a crack repair program was developed and undertaken in order to ensure the structural design intent and long-term performance of the structure were met.

Presentation Learning Objectives:

1. assess cracking of structural elements
2. create testing protocols 
3. implement the expertise of the concrete repair industry in new construction 
4. identify and implement potential solution for crack repairs