01482 659522 07950 415223 douglas@jaramassociates.co.uk
01482 659522 07950 415223 douglas@jaramassociates.co.uk
Buildings and structures are constantly subjected to internal and external stresses.
Factors such as ground movement, seasonal changes, construction works, or lack of support are examples of structural mis-alignment or the development of cracks.
Structural monitoring is a process which takes the survey process to another level. Instead of a one day or one time assessment this process can monitor the building precisely over an indefinite period of time.
Whether monitoring levels or tracking the progression of cracks, these techniques help property owners, engineers, and surveyors detect signs of deterioration or instability.
Level monitoring involves measuring the height of a structure to detect subsidence, heave, or tilting over time. It can be particularly necessary for historical or listed buildings susceptible to ground movement, during construction projects to monitor the impact on adjacent buildings or in response to visible signs of structural movement, such as cracking or misaligned doors and windows.
In accordance with BRE386, level monitoring involves the long term monitoring of the height of the building.
During the monitoring process, surveyors use a combination of instruments for level monitoring:
Crack Width Monitoring
ZDL-700
Monitoring Level
Cracking can take many forms and have many different symptoms and causations.
At Jaram Associates, we have many years of experience of inspecting cracking of varying types and severity. It is important to diagnose the cause of the cracking and deal with any underlying issues that will lead to its deterioration and ultimately the value of your asset.
Crack monitoring involves securely attaching small stainless steel discs on either side of a crack. The gap between these discs is measured with digital vernier calipers, offering exceptional precision with an accuracy of up to 0.01mm. This modern method is far superior to traditional techniques like tell-tales or glass strips, which are neither as accurate nor as tamper-proof.
At Jaram Associates, we provide comprehensive reports detailing the results of both level and crack monitoring, complete with professional interpretations. Unlike some competitors, we don’t leave you to decipher the data on your own. Our reports include clear explanations, expert opinions, and practical advice on the next steps, ensuring you have the guidance you need to make informed decisions.
Structural monitoring is the process of tracking the movement, shifts, and changes in buildings or infrastructure over time. This essential practice helps identify progressive signs of structural instability or deterioration, enabling timely intervention to prevent significant damage or safety hazards. Structural monitoring can detect a wide range of issues, such as subsidence, crack progression, foundation movement, or support issues that may affect the integrity of a building. By using advanced tools like digital levels and calipers, structural monitoring provides precise data on the stability of the building ensuring that any shifts or issues are detected.
Level monitoring is essential for detecting vertical or horizontal movements in a building or structure over time. Even minor shifts in the foundation, floors, or walls can indicate underlying issues such as subsidence, heave or landslip. Monitoring these changes early allows you to identify any potential issues early before they can lead to expensive repairs or potential structural failure. Level monitoring can be particularly important where there is more than one causation. Additionally, historical or listed buildings may be more susceptible to settling or shifting over time.
Cracks in buildings can arise from a variety of causes, including natural processes, construction practices, or changes in the environment. Some common examples of cracking include:
While it is possible to conduct crack and level monitoring yourself, there are several factors to consider. First, you would need the appropriate equipment to install and measure the monitoring stations, along with the necessary calibration—something we perform annually. Additionally, professional expertise is essential to accurately interpret the results. It's also important to consider whether your results would carry the same credibility as those from Jaram Associates, with over 30 years of experience in structural monitoring, ensuring both accuracy and reliability.
At Jaram Associates, we specialise in structural monitoring, including level and crack monitoring of various building types. With 30 years of experience in the surveying industry, we incorporate a range of diagnostic tools and technology to provide accurate results. To find out more about our level and crack monitoring services, or any other building assessments, please get in touch with Jaram Associates today.
Jaram Associates is an RICS registered firm of Chartered Building Surveyors formed in 2014
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Contact Us
Jaram Associates
5 Valley Drive
Kirkella
East Yorkshire
HU10 7PG
Tel: 01482 659522
Contact Us
Jaram Associates
Mobile: 07950 415223
Tel: 01482 659522
douglas@jaramassociates.co.uk
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