Highlights of our work include the following:
- Condition assessment of the limestone panels
- Use of vibrating wire strain gauges connected to a central data logger connected to our office in Massachusetts that allowed us to monitor movement between the limestone cladding and the backup structure to an accuracy of 1/10,000 in.
- Prediction of long-term panel movement to minimize remedial work and to verify the extent of thermal movement of the facade once the soft joints were installed
- Analysis of wind stress on panels using a relational database and finite element models
- Development of remedial contract documents for patching spalled panels, replacing panels with significant cracks, installing soft joints to isolate cladding from structure, and re-anchoring 7,500 panels
SGH found that the lack of soft material in the vertical joints between adjacent panels cause accumulation of lateral movement resulting in panel fractures and spalls at building corners. At the time of trial, our expert testimony resulted in a settlement that covered all repair costs.
