Owner: The Spanos Corporation
Client: The Spanos Corporation (Architect: Kephart)
Project Cost: $30,000,000
Services: New Design, Existing Structure, Condition Assessment, Forensic Engineering, Foundation Repair, Condition Survey, Load Testing, Peer Review

Summary:

During the construction of multiple large apartment buildings, excessive settlement was observed in the steel screw pile foundations under the partially completed structures. Spanos engaged J.R. Harris & Company (JRH) to investigate the cause of the foundation failure and assess the feasibility of repairs in collaboration with a geotechnical engineer.

Our team began with a peer review of the original foundation design to assess potential shortcomings. To evaluate the actual load capacities of the installed piers, we designed and implemented a series of full-scale load tests on-site. Along with the peer review, a comprehensive load rundown analysis was conducted to determine the foundation loads accurately. Using the results from these tests and geotechnical design parameters, we developed an economical foundation retrofit system that reinforced the existing screw piles while minimizing demolition and disruption to completed construction. In addition to these repairs, JRH also provided new complete designs for the buildings that had not been constructed yet. Throughout the construction phase, we provided ongoing services to support the successful implementation of the new foundation system.