Holdfast Training Services Trial Blog

Situation…  So I am responsible for the section of the structure which will envelop the heritage building in the image above. In the permanent state, the structure will surround the heritage site as shown in the two images below…

Issue…  Whilst the beam, which allows level 3 of the structure to cantilever over the heritage building, clears the roof in the permanent state, it fouls it in the temporary. The beam has to be poured in two stages due to its depth. In order to achieve the required strength between pours, the depth has to increase from that required in the permanent state. This causes the beam to foul the roof of the heritage building… Ah!

Options…

1. Accept the collateral damage and remove a section of the parapet wall to allow for the beam.
2. Prop the beam in the temporary state, allowing the beam depth to be reduced to that required in the permanent condition, thus avoiding a clash with the roof. However, to accommodate these props the floor boards and roof tiles will need to be removed and ceilings penetrated. The props will have to be strategically positioned to avoid joists and rafters. Once the beam has reached its required strength, the props can be removed, floor boards and tiles replaced and ceilings patched.

The heritage authority aren’t exactly happy with either of these options but think option 1 is the lesser of the evils.  A structural survey of the heritage building is soon to take place and if I were a betting man, I anticipate huge aspects of the heritage building will be condemned.  If the floors, ceilings and roof need replacing, option 2 may take the lead.

I will keep you abreast of the situation once a decision is made.