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Recent Articles

Regaining the Client's Trust
SWRI / Applicator Magazine, Spring 2009

Using science-based data instead of just verbal assurances, a contractor is able to test validity of concrete repairs without resorting to large-scale demolition

By Andy Schrader, M.S.C.E., E.I.

When a client questions if construction repairs are being performed correctly, it can be useful to address their concerns using third party testing to separate fact from fiction. Such was the case at 440 West Condominium located in Clearwater, Fla. In this case, non-destructive testing (NDT) was used to examine an elevated concrete slab, find the areas most likely to be deficient and pinpoint those areas for physical examinations. Costly and time-consuming demolition of concrete repairs was averted.

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Half-Cell Potential Corrosion Survey Aids Repair Design
ICRI Magazine, September/October 2008

By F. Carter "Bud" Karins and Andy Schrader

440 West Condominium consists of two 16-story towers and a central plaza deck overlooking Clearwater Beach, FL. The structure rests on an elevated parking deck and 94,000 ft² (8732 m²) garage. The suspended parking deck is constructed of nominal 11 in. (27.9 cm) thick, two-way, cast-in-place, conventionally reinforced concrete flat-plate slabs.

Constructed in 1975, the structure had never undergone a concrete restoration job prior to this project, and the concrete slab went without waterproofing membrane on top for many years.

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