Every building has a story to tell. It’s up to us to listen.

Imagine a structure that suddenly shifts or shows signs of distress. You see cracks running up the walls, rusted columns, or mold creeping along the ceiling. Perhaps the floor feels uneven, or the wall appears to bulge outward. Maybe you hear unusual sounds, such as creaking or popping, emanating from the building.

Individually, these indicators suggest structural distress. However, when found together, they can foreshadow potentially catastrophic harm to the structure, its surrounding environment, and nearby people.

Early detection and timely intervention can help prevent further damage and ensure the safety and stability of a structure.

Forensic science, in its simplest form, refers to the use of scientific methods to find out how or why something happened. Forensic structural investigations apply this same principle to buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. It involves detailed examination and analysis to determine why the infrastructure experienced structural failures, defects, or collapse.

Conducted by forensic structural engineers, each investigation requires a unique blend of technical expertise, analytical skill, and investigative prowess to uncover the truth behind the structural mystery. These professionals will delve into the core issues and examine visual evidence found in masonry, concrete, steel, wood, and other materials. The primary goal of a forensic structural investigation is to identify the root cause of a problem and provide recommendations for remediation or repair.

Forensic structural investigations typically follow a systematic approach that involves four key steps: 

1. Site Inspection – Engineers conduct thorough site inspections to assess the extent of damage and collect pertinent data. They document their findings through photographs, measurements, and sketches. JPR also utilizes drone technology allowing for closer observation of high-elevation areas of concern.

2. Analysis – Detailed analysis of structural components, materials, design plans, and construction methods is performed to identify potential causes of failure.

3. Testing – Various methods, including material testing and non-destructive testing, are employed to evaluate the integrity of the structure and identify weaknesses.

4. Reporting – A comprehensive report summarizing the investigation findings, including the root causes of failure and recommendations for remediation, is prepared.

Through an investigation, a forensic structural engineer can ensure the infrastructure complies with applicable codes and standards, can aid in the support of an insurance claim or litigation involving structural issues, and can help determine the feasibility of a renovation. Additionally, forensic structural investigations often follow incidents – such as building collapse, damage from fires and natural disasters, or construction defects. Investigations may also be conducted proactively to identify potential risks or future vulnerabilities.

A proactive approach can provide both a peace of mind for the client, as well as cost-savings if structural issues are found. This is illustrated in the investigation of a high-elevation cantilever deck on Klinger Lake in Michigan. Although the client had no explicit structural concerns at the time of the investigation, they wanted to do their due diligence regarding safety. It was fortunate they did, because serious issues were found that would otherwise not have been detected.

The investigation found significant cracks in all four of the concrete footings, steel brackets that were rusted and broken at the concrete interface, and one of two long columns near the lake’s edge was significantly out of plumb. These issues, alongside others, severely reduced the ability of the footings to support the load capacity of the deck. Had these issues not been found and repaired, they could have later resulted in property damage or loss of life.

The importance of forensic structural investigations cannot be overstated. Not only do they shed light on the factors contributing to structural failures, but they also play a crucial role in preventing future disasters. By identifying design flaws, construction errors, material defects, and environmental factors, these investigations enhance the safety and resilience of built environments.

PROJECT EXAMPLE:

Water Works Standpipe Investigation
‍Bremen, Indiana

In 2023, JPR performed a Forensic Structural Investigation of the Historic Water Works Standpipe for the Town of Bremen after deteriorated brick and mortar were discovered around the ground floor access door. The intent of the investigation was to be an early step toward future restorations to extend the life of the standpipe.

Constructed in 1892 as a public water supply tower, the standpipe consists of a 68-foot-tall brick base with Second Gothic Revival style design elements. A 36-foot-tall cylindrical steel water tank sits atop the base. Decommissioned in 1955, the standpipe was named an American Historic Water Landmark in 1975.

JPR performed a visual inspection around the exterior of the tower as well as the interior areas that were safely accessible – from the ground floor to the top floor, immediately below the tank. Non-destructive testing was performed using a rock hammer for sounding and chipping; a 4-foot carpenter’s level for checking level, plumb, and straightness; a magnifying glass for close examination of construction material cracks; and a flashlight. A drone was also used to collect valuable high-elevation images of the standpipe tank quickly and efficiently, as well as obtain comprehensive evidence on the condition of the brickwork from top to bottom at areas that were not easily or cost-effectively accessible.

As part of the report, comprehensive photographic images were organized to enable the client not only to observe the structural problems that have been identified but also to gauge the prevalence of these issues across the entire structure. They illustrate the deterioration of the wood decking, staircases, and supports that were original to the structure, while highlighting the absence of safety handrails. The images also provide insight into the standpipes condition, eliminating the need to enter the structure and expose oneself to unsafe conditions.

JPR provided the Town with a list of recommended historical restoration contractors, as well as potential sources of grant funding for restoration construction. Our team will continue to work with the Town in future phases to restore the standpipe, so it stands as a historic icon for generations to come.

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