STRUCTURAL REPAIRS
Often times, buildings are damaged by weather, aging, soil movements or other means. Laird Engineers has vast experience investigating these unique situations. Our services include evaluating existing structures, developing repair solutions and providing the Client with estimated construction costs for the repairs. In addition to visual observations, a variety of techniques and methods are used to determine the extent and magnitude of damage, so we can visually depict the findings to the Client. Analysis of the existing structure can be performed to determine if the existing structure is adequate to carry loads prescribed by the applicable building code.
With repair projects, not only is cost an important factor, but many times the location and types of repairs selected are important in order to avoid disturbing the building occupants. We work with the Architect, Owner and Contractor to develop repair methods that will expose the occupants to construction as little as possible. By drawing on experience gained in a wide range of previous repair projects, Laird Engineers incorporates practical and cost-effective repair solutions in order to regain the functionality of the structure, keeping the safety of the occupants as a priority at all times.
HIGHLAND VILLAGE
Originally built in the early 1960’s, the Highland Village shopping center was a central component of the city of Jackson, being located between downtown Jackson and the largely-residential area of northeast Jackson. As the city has grown, Highland Village has remained a mainstay in the upscale retail business in Jackson. Only undergoing one major renovation, in the mid-1970’s, since the original construction of the buildings, Highland Village has decided the exterior look of the buildings should match the fashionable lifestyle promoted by the stores housed within the shopping center.
Providing a more open feel while providing more daylight to enter the stores was key to several renovations in which Laird Engineers was involved. Red Square wished to have a larger storefront, thus removing a large portion of the exterior walls. In doing so, the structural steel supports were modified and strengthened to allow the changes. In another two-story building, now housed by Lululemon, the second floor was removed to allow an airy feel throughout the large space while allowing light to enter the second floor windows. A steel frame was added on the interior of the building to support the exterior walls. Other projects around Highland Village provide better access to the second floor spaces. New stairs and elevated walkways were added, as well as replacing an existing elevator to make the second floor ADA accessible.
As a result of this renovation, the buildings of the shopping center will be as trendy as the stores and restaurants located inside.
FITZHUGH HALL
Following a condition assessment and recommendation of demolition of the existing East Wing of Fitzhugh Hall, Laird Engineers designed a new three-story East Wing while at a previous firm. The building is constructed of structural steel beams and columns supporting steel bar joists and concrete floors. The foundation utilizes a stiffened slab-on-grade construction with columns being supported by belled piers.
Once construction of the East Wing was underway, Laird Engineers provided a condition assessment of the West Wing of Fitzhugh Hall. Following the condition assessment, Laird Engineers provided construction documents for repairs and strengthening of the existing structure in order to mitigate problems that were encountered by the East Wing. During construction, Laird Engineers provided on-site observations and construction administration services.
HEBER LADNER BUILDING
Housing the Office of the Secretary of State for Mississippi, the two-story Heber Ladner Building was constructed in 1924 of a concrete slab on grade and a concrete and steel frame. Over the years, the structure has experienced significant differential movements throughout the building, causing cracks in the architectural features of the building. An investigation was performed to determine the appropriate solution for repairing and stabilizing the building. Serving as the prime professional on the project, Laird Engineers designed the foundation underpinning using helical piles and the concrete slab on grade was re-leveled using mudjacking. Once the structural repairs were complete and the building was stabilized, the interior finishes of the building were repaired. The existing clay tile roof was repaired using Ludowici clay tile to match the existing historic roof.