Lessons from the Field
From Uncertainty to Understanding: Navigating a Major Concrete Restoration Project
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned over nearly 30 years is that successful concrete restoration involves more than identifying deterioration and developing technically sound repairs. It also requires understanding the challenges facing the people responsible for making difficult decisions.
Read MoreWhy Thorough Concrete Repairs Matter
One of the most difficult parts of a major concrete restoration project is explaining why the repair scope can become so extensive. Board members and unit owners understandably look at the visible deterioration and ask: Why do we need to repair so much concrete? The answer is that the objective of a properly designed concrete…
Read MoreWhy Do Concrete Repairs Cost So Much?
Why does a concrete repair cost so much? Learn what goes into concrete restoration, from removing damaged material and addressing corroded rebar to proper preparation, access, labor, and long-term repair performance.
Read MoreThe Danger of the Low-Ball Restoration Estimate
Concrete restoration estimates can vary widely. Learn what condo boards and property managers should consider before choosing the lowest estimate.
Read MoreWhy Florida’s Definition of “Substantial Structural Deterioration” Needs Another Look
By UPE President, Carmelo Giglio, PE, SI, FRSE, CGC, CSI-CDT One aspect of Florida’s milestone inspection statute that I have repeatedly criticized in my presentations is the statutory definition of “substantial structural deterioration.” With the recent release of the NIST report on the Champlain Towers South collapse, I believe those concerns are even more relevant…
Read MoreIs Your Concrete Restoration Timeline Realistic?
The Timeline Detail Most Communities Miss When planning a concrete restoration project, many communities focus on the construction phase. But the truth is, the timeline starts much earlier. From the initial assessment to contractor selection, permitting, and mobilization, a typical concrete restoration project can require 6-8 months before construction even begins, assuming everything moves on…
Read MoreBudgeting for Change Orders: A Conservative Approach
Budgeting for Change Orders: A Conservative Approach to Concrete Repair Projects Change orders are a reality in nearly every concrete repair and restoration project. No matter how detailed the planning, hidden conditions and unexpected issues will surface once work begins. For condominium boards and property managers, the question isn’t if change orders will happen—it’s how…
Read MoreThink You Know What You Need? Maybe Not.
At UPE, we’ve noticed something lately: many times when we receive requests for proposals, the manager or owner doesn’t actually know what services they truly need. Here’s an example. A manager requested a proposal for a full building structural condition assessment as they knew they needed repairs. We submitted exactly that. Later, we were told…
Read MoreLessons from the Field – A Word on Partial-Depth Repairs
A Word on Partial-Depth Repairs Lessons from the Field EXAMPLE OF FAILED PARTIAL DEPTH REPAIR THAT WE HAD TO RE-DO…THE CORRECT WAY…WITH A FULL-DEPTH REPAIR. As many of you know from working with us or attending one of my presentations, I’ve been involved in concrete restoration for over 26 years. Across hundreds of projects—some highly…
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