Red Road Commons is a three-level condominium structure with a below-grade one-level parking deck. The building and garage were leased to the University of Miami for student housing with a move-in date of August 1, 2009. Failure to complete on time would result in substantial liquidated damages.

As work on the project approached completion, a Fire Marshall conducting an inspection in the garage noticed cracking in the overhead slab. A City of Miami engineer was immediately called in and determined that the 18,500 square foot slab was structurally deficient and each of the 23 columns was experiencing punching shear through the slab. The entire slab was shored and the Owner immediately began researching strengthening options because of the impending the deadline.

Because the project was 95% complete and there were only six weeks until the mandated project deadline, the Owner, General Contractor, and Engineer of Record (EOR) worked together closely to select a contractor experienced with fast-paced strengthening projects. After joining the team, STRUCTURAL worked closely with all members. With the design team working around the clock, a solution to repair the deficiencies and meet the completion date was devised and approved.

A solution to address a “worst-case” scenario was developed.The plan was to form and pour drop panels around each column – essentially forming a column capital. Each panel was designed six inches thick with varying widths according to the strength needed around each column. Carbon fiber rods also were placed on the top side of each column – two on either side – to provide additional strength. Using self-consolidating concrete (SCC), with a high ultimate strength (6000psi), put the columns above design strength criteria within 48 to 78 hours.

In addition to the column repairs, the crews performed 4,400 linear feet of crack repair – 2,200 with topside gravity feed and 2,200 feet with overhead injection. Crews worked a 24/7schedule for two weeks straight with approximately 40 people on each crew.

Work was completed within less than a six weeks - ensuring the Owner met its original deadline and avoided costly penalties.