Post Tension Cable Repair

Post tensioned cable systems are everywhere. From parking structures to offices, post tensioning is an excellent construction strategy for keeping buildings safe. 

As with any construction, after so many years it may require repairs. However, post tensioned buildings are easier to repair, making them an attractive option to engineers and building owners.

Contact Tendon Systems for more information on our post tension cable repair and other services.

Continue reading to learn more about post tensioning construction, applications, benefits and repairs. 

What is Post Tensioned Concrete?

Post-tensioning is a form of prestressing in concrete. This is done to strengthen the concrete with cable reinforcement. Here is how post-tensioning works:

• Cables in plastic sleeves are placed in the form before the concrete is poured. 
• The concrete is poured into the form with the cables. 
• The cables are tightened after the concrete has hardened, but before it is laid in place in the building.

This process ensures that the concrete can bear the full load of the building. Post-tensioning systems are most commonly used in precast concrete. This is concrete that is formed before the structure is built. 

Some precast concrete is pre-tensioned, meaning that the cables are tightened before the concrete is poured. Either way, both pre-tensioning and post-tensioning are forms of prestressing the concrete. This is imperative to the lasting durability of the building.

Post Tensioning Applications

There are all kinds of applications for post-tensioning. Because precast concrete is so commonly used in buildings, many structures have some form of post-tensioning. Here are some applications for post-tensioning:

• Offices
• High rise buildings
• Parking garages
• Condominiums
• Hotels

Post-tensioning is often used in multi-story commercial buildings and multi-family homes rather than single-family residential spaces. This is because post-tensioning provides the utmost safety and security. 

Post-tensioning is also used for building reinforcement, such as in areas with frequent seismic events. It is also often used for slab-on-ground construction on soils that are softer. 

Engineers will use post-tensioning in bridges to increase the length between supports without compromising the integrity of the structure. Recently, it has also been used for water tank construction with the addition of waterproof epoxy coatings. 

Because so many buildings use post-tensioning, there are certain regulations in each state that pertain to how it is used. 

For example, post-tensioning in parking structures are typically outlined by the state’s Department of Transportation. These regulations ensure that post-tensioning is done correctly and safely. 

Benefits of Using Post Tensioning

Post-tensioning offers some excellent benefits for construction. 

Take a look at some of the advantages:

• Less likely to develop cracks and any cracks that due form are held together with the cables. Any cracks that do develop can be easily repaired using epoxy injections.
• The concrete is poured in thinner slabs because it is reinforced. This lowers the cost of materials and the time that is required to form the concrete.
• Perfect for slab on ground applications in which the soil is expansive or more likely to shift.
• Is used to reinforce already existing structures, especially in areas with frequent earthquakes.
• Quickens the construction process and makes it safer, especially if precast concrete is being used. This substantially lowers labor costs. 
• Easy to repair, restore and modify.
• Improved waterproofing abilities through epoxy coatings which is why it is frequently used in water storage tanks.
• Less maintenance required because the life of the concrete is dramatically increased with post-tensioning. 

Overall, post-tensioning is an effective construction method for all kinds of applications. Whether you are aiming to reinforce a building or reduce construction costs and time, post-tensioning is an excellent technique to take advantage of. 

Repairing Post Tensioned Cables

Although post-tensioned systems are designed to last a long time, they may require restoration or modifications. Some reasons why post-tensioned concrete may require repairs include cracking, rust staining, deflection and tendon eruption. These issues are detected through a visual inspection that should be part of your structure’s maintenance plan. 

When a post-tensioning repair service is scheduled, you should know what to expect.

Before any repair is conducted, the engineers or construction company workers should scan the structure. Concrete scanning helps to make the contractor aware of any electrical wiring, plumbing, cables and other internal structures that may affect how repairs are completed. The scan will also detect voids, thickness levels and imperfections in the concrete. 

When the concrete begins to show signs that a repair is necessary, be sure to call a qualified and experienced contractor such as Tendon Systems. Our team provides high quality post-tension concrete repair services. 

Here are the repairs that we complete:

• Crack repair using epoxy injections
• Replacement of expansion joints
• Epoxy top coatings for waterproofing abilities

These repairs ensure that the concrete will continue to withstand all kinds of conditions. Once Tendon Systems has completed the repair, our in-house engineers will perform a thorough inspection to make sure that all issues are effectively taken care of. 

Post Tensioning Systems Service

You need a contractor that you can trust. That is why so many turn to Tendon Systems for their construction needs. 

Here are some of the services that we provide:

• Post-tension cable repair
• Concrete restoration
• Scanning and coring
• Design, fabrication and installation
• Barrier cable construction
• Slab on grade 
• Engineering services

No matter what you need, we can help you. At Tendon Systems, we take pride in using only the best materials and most advanced equipment. To schedule a consultation with one of our team members, give us a call at (678) 835-11100 or contact us online.