Patient Details
Alpha Structural performed a damage assessment and forensic testing program for a fire-damaged foundation at this Pacific Palisades property. The foundation had been exposed to intense heat during the Palisades fire, requiring evaluation of the concrete and reinforcing steel to determine the extent of damage and identify portions of the existing grade beam and stem wall system that could potentially be salvaged. The assessment was developed in accordance with City of Los Angeles requirements for fire rebuilds.
The investigation began with field verification of the existing foundation using available as-built foundation plans. Permit history research was also included to locate historical permits, plans, and other building records that could provide additional information about the existing foundation system.
Schmidt testing was performed to evaluate the existing concrete and help determine appropriate locations for more detailed sampling. Test readings and proposed core locations were documented on the field-verified foundation plan to establish a clear record of the investigation.
Approximately 30 concrete core samples were planned throughout the perimeter and interior stem wall lines. Each sample location was recorded and coordinated with the foundation plan, allowing the testing results to be associated with specific portions of the existing foundation.
The extracted concrete samples were submitted to a laboratory for compressive-strength testing. These results provided additional information for evaluating the condition of the fire-exposed concrete and determining which foundation areas could be considered for reuse versus structural repair.
Following completion of the testing and damage assessment, structural plans were to be prepared identifying any stem wall or grade beam areas requiring repair. The plans would also document portions of the existing foundation recommended for reuse based on the results of the forensic testing and assessment.
