Nouveau Complex Sportif, Lac Simon QC – Masonry Walls.

Once again Petra Building Consulting was contracted to implement an innovative reinforced masonry system using fiberglass bars in several new construction and rehabilitation projects in the region, in accordance with the specifications of the Canadian standard CSA S806 “Design and construction of components of buildings with fiber-reinforced polymers. This emerging technology was chosen due to its superior advantages in durability and corrosion resistance compared to traditional steel bars.

Approach and Methodology

The implementation of fiberglass bars in reinforced masonry will be evaluated through a series of detailed inspections and analyses, following the guidelines of CSA S806, which provides a comprehensive framework for the use of reinforced polymers of fibers in construction components. Buildings will be selected based on several factors, including their exposure to corrosive environments, expected structural loading, and accessibility for renovation. Comprehensive structural assessments, material performance testing and building envelope integrity analyzes will be conducted.

Fiberglass bars, lighter than steel and having comparable tensile strength, are immune to corrosion and meet specifications for harsh environments. Their compatibility with conventional construction methods allows their integration without significant modifications to existing construction processes.

Specific installation procedures will be developed to ensure the correct integration of the fiberglass bars into the masonry, with continuous monitoring of the long-term behavior of the materials and the rehabilitated structures, documenting the results and recommendations in performance sheets. related calculation.

Key Challenges

Adapting construction practices to the use of fiberglass bars in accordance with CSA S806 presents challenges, particularly in terms of training and skills development of the local workforce. Additionally, the logistics of distributing and handling a less common material like fiberglass requires careful planning.

Despite the benefits, integrating new hardware may be met with resistance due to lack of familiarity and perceptions of its cost-effectiveness. Therefore, it will be crucial to achieve wide dissemination and education among stakeholders and building authorities to promote acceptance and widespread use of this innovative material in accordance with Canadian standards.

Masonry walls – Water Treatment Station, Ville de Gatineau

Client: AAB  

Estimated Budget: Unknown

AAB, a GFRP distributor, chose to work with Petra Building Consulting thanks to our experience in designing with GFRP.  The mandate was to convert the current design from steel reinforced concrete to glass fiber reinforced concrete for the masonry walls at the water purification station.

Sinclaire Project

Client: Private

Estimated Budget: $1.5m

Working with the project manager and Nexcem ICF installer Petra Building Consulting’s engineers were given the mandate to for a full structural design for the house.  The house was built with Nexcem ICF from foundation to upper floor.

Key Challenge:

Working with an innovative product like Nexcem ICF poses unique challenges particularly concerning the workforce as this is a product that lacks familiarity within the construction professionals.  Additionally, for the same reasons, building officials require more education and reassurances that the product complies with the building codes and safety standards. 

Meaford Project

Client: Private

Estimated budget: $1,200,000

Petra Building Consulting was hired to produce the structural design for this new construction project.  Working directly with the homeowners, they requested a conventional foundation along with Structural Insulated Panels construction for above grade walls and for the roof.

Key Challenges:

Structural Insulated Panels are an innovative alternative solution to conventional stick framing that saves time on the job site, while offering many other benefits like a better effective R-value.  However, working with them require special equipment on the job, and the ability to handle properly handle them.

Apart from that, structural details differ significantly from conventional buildings, and in these cases, dealing with building officials and labor force can pose some challenges due to the lack of familiarity with the product.