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BellMont Blog

Nothing to Crack Up About

26/6/2018

1 Comment

 
Buildings are amazing structures, but sometimes even they crack under pressure…literally. While not all cracks require repairs they are definitely not an issue to crack up about as they can lead to serious structural issues if left untreated. Luckily, we are here to help with everything you needed to know about cracking.
 
Explanation:
Cracks are signs of release for a structure with built up stresses that assist contractors and engineers to identify the areas of weakness for the structure, so they know where to begin their rectification work.  
 
Types:
Shrinkage
  • Shrinkage cracks are usually created at the beginning of the construction process with the use of an inadequate concrete mix or rapid curing and are most commonly diagonal or vertical cracks. Although these types of cracks can allow water to enter through the wall causing internal stresses, they do not pose a threat to the structural integrity of the building.

Hairline
  • Hairline cracks like shrinkage cracks are created at the beginning of the construction process due to poorly mixed or poured concrete and likewise do not pose threats to the structural integrity. These cracks are usually spotted in the middle of a wall, where the wall is commonly at its weakest.
​
Settlement
  • Settlement cracks are caused by the failure to properly prepare the subsoil or compact the underlying ground.  These cracks are usually continuous and can appear multiple times on a wall, appearing wider at the top and narrower towards the bottom.

Appearance:
Vertical
  • Vertical cracks tend to appear multiple times and have various causes. If a vertical cracks appears straight it is usually due to shrinkage, making it a low risk crack and no cause for concern. However, if the vertical crack has ongoing movement and seems distressed, you should contact a structural engineer immediately.

Diagonal
  • Diagonal cracks can be caused by settlement issues, expansion and shrinkage and will appear differently depending on the issue. If a diagonal crack appears along almost all of the foundation it is usually due to a settlement issue, in particular with the footing on one side of the wall. If you are experiencing this issue you should get in contact with a consultant. If the crack is wider a at the top than the bottom this is usually an expansion issue. Lastly, if the crack is uniform and stays the same width the whole crack then this is a shrinkage issue which not something to worry about, structurally.

Horizontal
  • These cracks are usually identified in the centre of the wall and are most commonly signs of a foundational or loading issue created at the beginning of the construction process. In some cases these fine cracks can go unnoticed for years, which can have a negative impact on the structure of the building, in this instance a consultant should be contacted to evaluate the damage.

Floor Cracks:
  • Floor cracks are quite common and not a cause for alarm in terms of issues that will damage the buildings structural integrity, this being said they should still be repaired to prevent future complications. 
1 Comment

Benefits of Using Stainless Steel

19/6/2018

7 Comments

 
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​​Just as its names suggests stainless steel is a metal that has the ability to resist stains and corrosion. Stainless steel contains about ten percent of a material called chromium which gives it not only the ability to combat various conditions but,  to heal itself. While I am certain you are already won over by the capabilities of this material, let’s uncover some additional benefits of its use.

  • Durability: Stainless steel is one of the most durable materials used in the construction industry as it has corrosion resistance which is the ability to withstand time, harsh conditions and remain practically unaffected unlike alternative metals.
 
  • Versatility: stainless steel allows those who use it a chance to be creative with their designs as in most cases the material can be cut, welded, formed, machined or fabricated readily. Stainless steel is aesthetically appealing to clients as it is available in various fishes that are easily maintained, satisfying and durable.
 
  • Practicality: ​ This material is low maintenance and durable and therefore, low cost in the long run in comparison to competitors. Many commercial spaces such as kitchens, hospitals and other industries use this metal as they are easy to maintain in terms of sterilization and cleaning, and provide the standard of cleanliness these spaces require.
 
Now that you are aware of the benefits of using stainless steel I am sure you are itching to give the material a go and steel the scene for yourself with some impeccable designs only this material can achieve! 
7 Comments

How Often Should a Strata Building Be Inspected?

12/6/2018

0 Comments

 
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While circumstances such as age and environment do affect how often a building should be inspected, we recommend that strata managers have their buildings inspected at least once every five years to ensure that they are in a sound and liveable condition.
 
Age plays a huge part in determining how often a strata building should be inspected. Both newly built and older buildings should be assessed regularly. Newer buildings should be inspected regularly to ensure that any defects identified can be rectified as early on as possible and similarly older buildings, which are prone to longer term deterioration issues should be inspected regularly to ensure that material failures do not result in the creation of hazardous environments.  Early detection of any condition affecting the structure or amenity of the building is developing, allows an engineer to assess and recommend measures to rectify and conserve the building element.
 
Heritage buildings are of particular interest with regard to regular assessments and Bellmont are highly skilled in this field having worked on some of Sydney’s most prestigious Heritage structures.

If you are a manager or owner who wishes to have your building inspected by a professional, the team at BellMont would be more than happy to assist! You can get in contact with us below.

Contact Us
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The Drone Impact

5/6/2018

0 Comments

 
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Whenever I hear the word drone I immediately think “toy”. But the fact is, these days drones are considered an innovative tool by a number of industries, making day to day operations swifter and more effective than ever before. So what have drones achieved for operations within the construction industry so far ?
 
Bird’s eye view perks:
The process of surveying land can sometimes be a strenuous one that drains both time and energy. That is however, before the incorporation of drones into construction operations. Through the use of drones, engineers and builders alike are given a “birds eye view” of the site that they never had such access to before, resulting in not only an easier process, but a more accurate one that eliminates human error.
 
Constant Communication is key:
We already have phones, headsets and walkie-talkies to allow constant communication while on site, but what if we had devices that could offer round the clock 360 visuals of the site that allow us to be offsite but still make the same commentary as if we were there? Well you are in luck! Because that’s exactly what drones have achieved for the construction industry. Drones give builders and engineers alike the opportunity to surveillance the site at all times, while also supervising employees even if they can’t be on site. 
 
Inspections made easier:
It’s not always easy for an engineer or builder to access all areas onsite, this is where drones come in. This technology allows industry professionals to undertake usually difficult inspections without having to leave their comfort zone, saving not only time and energy, but eliminating risk onsite.
 
I promise I won’t drone on any longer, what are your thoughts on this integration of technology on construction sites?
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For More Info:
Phone: ​​02 9518 0775
​Email: info@bellmont.net

  • Services
    • Civil and Structural Engineering
    • Heritage Buildings
    • Expert Witness Services
    • Waterproofing
    • Concrete Repair Investigations
    • Project Management
    • Rope Access
    • Design Building Practitioner
  • Our Team
  • Case Studies
    • Facade Case Studies >
      • Bondi
      • Marrickville
      • Darling Point
    • Heritage Buildings Case Studies >
      • Chinatown Gate Refurbishment
      • St Sophia Church
      • Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
      • Fortune of War Hotel
      • Spectacle Island
      • Ashfield
    • Waterproofing Case Studies >
      • Neutral Bay
      • Mascot
      • Summer Hill
    • Structural Case Studies >
      • King Street Wharf
      • Rockwall Apartments, Potts Point
      • Kirribilli
  • Blog
  • BULLETIN
  • Accreditations and Suppliers
  • Contact us