Condition Assessment Protocals
For the past few years, our team has been working on the cutting-edge of a new timber strength assessment protocols that we have pioneered with structural engineers in New Zealand, Great Britain and Canada. This methodology is designed specifically for applications within historic timber buildings, where the objective is to retain the maximum amount of historic building fabric.
Additionally, M&L has the capacity to visually-grade timbers in-situ, in accordance with NLGA guidelines for structural timbers, and can provide registered grading certificates when required.
Condition Assessment
M&L uses a variety of condition assessment protocols to inspect historic buildings and accurately determine their structural integrity.
In addition to visual inspection, we use resistograph (micro-drilling) and ultrasonic tools to accurately and objectively determine the condition and strength of wood and timber elements. These tools can also be used to discretely assess the condition of heritage artifacts and architectural features. We use this information to guide our recommendations for repairs, which we typically present in both written specifications and drawings.
All of our processes are consistent with the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada, and best conservation practice as defined by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), of which we are a professional member.
Resistography
M&L utilizes resistographs (decay detecting drills) to micro-drill into timbers as part of our non-destructive testing methods for the condition assessment of historic timbers.
The specialized tool produces a resistance graph that allows for the visual identification of deterioration within timber with high levels of precision.
Ultrasonic
Ultrasonic inspection tools are pulse velocity measuring devices used to detect decay within building timbers.
This non-destructive testing tool allows for the in-situ defectoscopy of historic timber elements by measuring the differences in the transmission velocity between the intact and damaged wood.
Destructive testing and mechanical testing
M&L is familiar with a wide range of destructive testing and mechanical testing methodologies for timber and steel, and has previously been responsible for developing testing procedures in order to refine / justify innovative structural designs on several occasions.
This sort of materials testing is highly specialized, and M&L employs testing houses and laboratories on a case by case basis depending on the specific needs of each project. By utilizing this approach we have consistently been able to reduce costs and increase the amount of historic fabric that can be retained.
