Deformation of steel truss canopy during erection

Stock photo

London, United Kingdom

During the refurbishment of a London office building, a new steel roof incorporating a cantilever canopy exhibited excessive movement during erection, delaying completion and prompting a dispute over the cause and allocation of responsibility.

I was asked to investigate the cause of this undue deflection. This work included reviewing design and site records and assessing parameters affecting the steel truss behaviour, including design assumptions, connection detailing, fabrication and erection tolerances, and the effects of temporary works and erection sequencing.

The findings of this investigation were provided to the solicitors acting for the main contractor to inform their client’s position.