“This project required a complete structural reinforcement of the building, starting from the foundations and including the construction of shear walls, column encasements, and strengthening of the floor beams. The building had been unused for over 20 years.

While working on the first floor, we discovered a startling issue when an existing mezzanine beam detached. It was revealed that, during the original construction 20 years ago, the rebar in the beam was never properly connected to the column. Instead, it was merely held in place by a concrete “tooth” that fit into the column. It was incredible that this had gone unnoticed for so long. In light of this discovery, we decided to reinforce all the mezzanine beams as a precaution. Although this may have been an isolated issue, we felt it was important to ensure that all beams were adequately strengthened. What always concerned me was the thought that everyone involved in the project—inspectors included—had unknowingly passed beneath that beam without realizing the danger it posed.”