Remarkable Stabilization and Lift of a Tilt-Up Building in Las Vegas, NV

The Challenge

A 120,000 sq ft warehouse experienced settlements of up to 6 inches, causing operational disruptions.

In the vibrant city of Las Vegas, a massive tilt-up building faced a significant challenge. Settlement issues and unlevel surfaces had become a recurring problem, causing disruptions and operational headaches for the warehouse tenants. However, the arrival of Groundworks, a reputable contractor based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, signaled a turning point in the building’s fate. Through their expertise and innovative approach, they successfully undertook the stabilization and lift of the entire structure, rejuvenating it for continued use.

The magnitude of the task was evident as the 120,000 square foot mix-use warehouse experienced settlements of up to 6 inches throughout. This led to uneven surfaces that hindered operations for the building’s tenants. Groundworks accepted the challenge, aiming to restore the structural integrity of the building and provide a safe environment conducive to tenant activities.

Key Facts

The Solution

Stabilized the warehouse using 282 push piers.

To achieve their objective, Groundworks implemented a comprehensive strategy that combined two techniques: steel underpinning and polyurethane injection. The exterior of the building underwent reinforcement and lifting using steel underpinning, while the interior was meticulously lifted and stabilized through polyurethane injection. This involved the strategic placement of 282 push piers and the use of over 19,000 lbs of geotechnical polyurethane, providing the necessary support and restoration.

Precision and careful execution were crucial to the project’s success. Groundworks adopted a methodical approach by lifting two walls at a time, incrementally raising them in 3-inch intervals. The exterior walls were hydraulically lifted using push piers averaging 60 feet in depth. Each pier was equipped with a hydraulic jack controlled by a single control point, ensuring uniform lift across the structure.

Once the exterior was lifted, Groundworks transitioned to the interior using polyurethane injection. An eight-man injection team simultaneously injected geotechnical polyurethane into the interior support columns and problematic areas. This synchronized effort achieved optimal coverage and a uniform lift, effectively resolving the settlement and unlevel surface issues.

The Impact

Restored 90% structural integrity in 3.5 months with 0 interruption.

The project spanned 3.5 months, during which Groundworks worked diligently to minimize disruptions to the warehouse tenants’ operations. The work was scheduled during the night to avoid the scorching Las Vegas summer heat and to maintain uninterrupted operations. Despite the ongoing project, the warehouse remained fully operational, accommodating two tenants on a three-shift schedule. This seamless coordination demonstrated Groundworks’ commitment to providing a safe working environment for their clients and their own team.

The success of the stabilization and lift project was a result of the collaborative efforts between Groundworks and Waypoint Engineering, a renowned design engineering firm. Waypoint Engineering played a vital role in overseeing the project and working closely with Groundworks to develop a customized plan tailored to the unique challenges of the tilt-up building. Their expertise and attention to detail further solidified the project’s success.

In conclusion, through Groundworks’ unwavering dedication and expertise, the tilt-up building in Las Vegas underwent a remarkable transformation. Settlement issues and unlevel surfaces that once posed significant challenges were effectively addressed. The combined utilization of steel underpinning and polyurethane injection restored 90% of the building’s structural integrity. The project’s completion within the allocated timeframe, without major disruptions to tenant operations, is a testament to Groundworks’ commitment to excellence. This successful collaboration between the Building Owner, Groundworks, Waypoint Engineering, and the warehouse tenants ensured a safe and level environment, providing a solid foundation for continued business success within the revitalized building.