MAINTENANCE OF MULTI-STOREY CAR PARKS

Widespread cracking in these precast concrete slab units instigated a review of the existing and present condition of the units. Widespread corrosion of steel was believed to have been exacerbated by the high shear stresses, but also by poor detailing of movement joints in the insitu concrete deck.

Central area Car Park, Sunderland - Inspection of Insitu Concrete Car Park and outline design of modification for new barriers and cladding.

Cladding to 1960’s car parks is often reaching the end of its life and repair to such sections is often not viable. Deterioration of the structural members needs to be assessed, and columns often require strengthening to enable them to withstand vehicular impacts.

The capacity of crash barriers to restrain vehicles on the upper floors also needs to be assessed. Detailing new barriers that will not encroach on the parking bay can be difficult.

Following a spate of collapses, it is now a requirement that owners of multi-storey car parks should ensure that the fabric is inspected regularly and that they should receive periodic structural assessments.