We’d like to take this opportunity to let you know what our office will look like in response to current events surrounding COVID-19. We will continue to strive to provide safe service our client needs through this difficult time. Presently we are still taking calls, booking estimates and performing work under the following protocol as an essential business:
OFFICE The office is closed to the public except by appointment.
BOOKING ESTIMATES
Is done over the phone by calling the Main Office Number at (780) 448-2592. You may also go to our web-site dabarentrebuil.wpengine.com and fill out a contact form or direct email inquiries may be submitted at info@abarent.net
ESTIMATES
Currently all salespeople follow a stringent protocol on protection for the client and themselves. Masks are being worn and social distancing of 8 feet or more is mandatory along with stringent hand washing. Clients are to warn our office if they have any symptoms of Covid-19 or simple cold like ailments. In this case the estimate will be re-scheduled to keep all involved safe. Estimates will be issued in digital form only.
ENGINEERING INSPECTIONS
Currently one Engineer, Konstantin Ashkinadze P. Eng., is doing all of the inspections following a stringent protocol on protection for the client and for himself. Masks are being worn and social distancing of 8 feet or more is mandatory along with stringent hand washing. Clients are to warn our office if they have any symptoms of Covid-19 or simple cold like ailments. In this case the inspection will be re-scheduled to keep all involved safe. Reports will be issued in digital form only.
PROJECT WORK
If we are working onsite at a client project. All of our staff will be following a Strict Safety Protocol related to Covid-19, including but not limited to mask wearing, gloves, social distancing along with stringent hand washing. Staff will not be traveling in vehicles with more than 3 people. All staff have been educated on Covid-19 and its transmission so that they fully understand the boundaries. Any staff member experiencing any symptoms or not following protocols will not be allowed to work.
CONCLUSION
Covid-19 and how we are effected, is evolving. Given that, we too will continue to evolve as we work to align with the recommendations and updated changes from the World Health Organization (WHO), Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), and Alberta Health Services (AHS). We appreciate your patience and understanding while we manage this situation and work through unforeseen obstacles. We will continue to keep our communication up to date, as new information is available.
It is important through this difficult time that we support each other and local business safely. Thank you for your patience and trust in Abarent Construction Ltd. We are working hard to ensure continuity of your needs and projects while enforcing proactive measures to safeguard the health and safety of our employees, clients and partners in these unique times.
Having a structural engineer involved in the repair process for your project can be beneficial for many reasons. Your home foundation is something that is susceptible to a variety of factors that can easily have an affect on its structural integrity. Most homes were designed and built to fit under a generalized set of rules. An engineer brings a specific set of skills to every project so that we can evaluate where those rules fell short. Abarent is equipped with an APEGA Permit to Practice and an in house Engineer who they can work with to come up with a customized solution for the underlying cause of the fracturing or settlement that is occurring.
Unfortunately in this industry we all too often find ourselves at a project where one of our competitors has tried to repair a foundation using poorly and/or under designed solutions. It is important to use a qualified professional with the necessary credentials and experience in order to ensure every project is being completed properly and your investment is not being compromised.
Basement Before Repairs
Basement After Repairs
Qualifications of a Structural Engineer
An engineer is a person that is trained and skilled in the design, planning, and construction of an existing or new structure (residential and commercial). To become an engineer in Canada, they must possess and adhere to the following qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at an accredited post secondary institution (4 – 5 years).
Work as an Engineer In Training (EIT) for a minimum of 2 years under someone with a Professional Engineer (P. Eng) designation.
Successfully complete a professional practice exam in their respective province.
Once an engineer meets these qualifications they may then receive their P. Eng designation and are then bound by their provincial code of ethics.
Some things to look for when trying to determine whether an engineer meets these qualifications are:
The APEGA Permit To Practice
“Any company that engages in the practice of engineering or geoscience in Alberta as part of its business must have a Permit to Practice with APEGA.” Company Permit To Practice. (n.d.). Retrieved February 24, 2017
Stamp
The stamp is issued to a professional engineer by the association (APEGA for example) and comes bearing the engineering associations seal.
An engineer will use their stamp when when they are authenticating documents. The stamp will be accompanied by the engineer’s signature and the date the document was authenticated.
Engineering Reports
Once an engineer has had the opportunity to do a thorough inspection of the foundation they can then identify any underlying causes of structural issues that the foundation may have. They may provide a description of a recommended course of action to repair the damages and prevent any further issues if deemed necessary. This report can serve as a plan for contractors to follow during the repair process or it may be required prior to the sale of a home.
In some cases a contractor may offer to do an inspection report, but they maybe more inclined to suggest repairs that help their bottom line. Having a licensed engineer complete the report ensures that the recommended remediation plan isn’t being padded with unnecessary items that aren’t required to fix the problem.
Engineers Stand Behind Their Word
When an engineer receives their designation they are bound by the governing body for their respective provinces. They are legally liable to prevent against harm or loss to another person as a result of their work. Having an engineer diagnose a problem or create a repair / design plan can enable you to move forward without needing to get another opinion from an unqualified contractor.
Learn more about the engineering services we offer and let us know how we can assist you.
The Role of Structural Engineers in Foundation Assessment
Structural engineers play a crucial role in foundation assessment. These professionals use specialized tools like crack gauges and laser levels. Structural engineers can detect subtle signs of foundation movement. They analyze soil composition and its impact on foundations. Understanding the early signs of foundation problems is crucial for timely intervention and cost-effective repairs.
Structural Engineers and Building Code Compliance
Structural engineers ensure buildings meet local building codes. They stay updated on changing regulations and safety standards. These professionals can interpret complex code requirements for homeowners. Structural engineers provide documentation for permit applications. Consulting a structural engineer before starting foundation work can prevent costly code violations and ensure project approval.
The Impact of Structural Engineers on Insurance Claims
Structural engineers provide expert testimony for insurance claims. Their reports carry weight with insurance adjusters. These professionals can accurately assess damage extent and repair costs. Structural engineers help homeowners navigate complex claim processes. Having a structural engineer’s assessment can significantly impact your home’s resale value and insurance coverage.
Structural Engineers in Renovation and Remodeling Projects
Structural engineers are vital for safe home renovations. They assess load-bearing walls before removal. These professionals design support systems for open floor plans. Structural engineers ensure additions don’t compromise existing structures. Consulting a structural engineer for basement floor lowering projects can prevent potential structural issues and ensure safety.
The Role of Structural Engineers in Disaster Preparedness
Structural engineers assess buildings for natural disaster resilience. They recommend retrofitting measures for older structures. These professionals design earthquake and hurricane-resistant buildings. Structural engineers create evacuation plans based on building analysis. Proper foundation repair guided by structural engineers can significantly improve a building’s ability to withstand natural disasters.
Structural Engineers and Sustainable Building Practices
Structural engineers incorporate eco-friendly materials in designs. They optimize building orientation for energy efficiency. These professionals calculate carbon footprints of different structural solutions. Structural engineers balance sustainability with structural integrity. Understanding different foundation repair methods can help homeowners choose environmentally friendly options without compromising stability.
The Importance of Structural Engineers in Historic Preservation
Structural engineers assess the integrity of historic buildings. They develop preservation plans that maintain architectural authenticity. These professionals use non-invasive testing methods on delicate structures. Structural engineers balance modern safety standards with historical significance. Underpinning techniques recommended by structural engineers can preserve historic buildings while ensuring their long-term stability.
Structural Engineers and Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Structural engineers use BIM for accurate 3D structural modeling. They collaborate with architects and contractors through BIM platforms. These professionals detect design conflicts before construction begins. Structural engineers use BIM for lifecycle management of buildings. Advanced foundation drafting services utilizing BIM can provide more accurate and efficient structural solutions for complex projects.
Nancy has been with Abarent for over 4 years. Nancy brings a working knowledge with experience in construction for many years. Nancy is the “voice” of Abarent Construction Ltd and is there to greet client’s most days with their requests and questions. Her knowledge of our company and industry is always helpful and reassuring. She takes her role as Office Manager and client’s interests personally and works hard to ensure everyone is taken care efficiently.
Ron brings a strong construction background to the Abarent team and knows how essential it is to be a driving force in the company managing all operations using his extensive experience in all fields of construction. Ron enjoys working closely with office staff paying close attention to detail always making time to work along side the field staff. Ron’s works on building relationships with Abarent’s clients through each of their construction processes. Ron’s commitment to the Abarent team is widely felt and reflects in our projects and our client satisfaction.
Maxine brings her experience from the promotional and marketing world to Abarent Construction Ltd. Along with her marketing efforts Maxine lends a hand at the office when needed during the busy season. You can always find Maxine hard at work with a smile on her face greeting Abarent clients.
Konstantin Ashkinadze, P.Eng. has over 30 years experience in various fields of residential, commercial and industrial construction in Canada and Russia. He has been involved with Abarent for 15 years as a consultant and recently joined us as our Engineering Manager. Konstantin brings in his advanced theoretical and extensive practical knowledge in foundations, soils and building structures. His particular strength and passion is investigative inspections; if you want to know what is going wrong with your property, he would be the person to ask! Konstantin is an expert in different systems of underpinning, remedial secondary foundations and “reading” the sometimes, convoluted framing arrangements of old houses. This, and his ability to think outside the box come instrumental in choosing the best remedial strategy to your unique problem. Besides engineering, Konstantin is an avid badminton and chess player, guitarist, singer and songwriter, and a nature enthusiast.
Travis has 10 years of experience in the construction industry, 5 of which have been with Abarent Construction. Working in various capacities from customer service to working in the field; Travis is a valuable asset to the team. Recently, Travis has graduated college with a diploma in Architectural Technologies. He brings with him his knowledge of building science and technical drawings while working closely with our structural engineer to create construction drawings for many of our structural projects. Outside of work, Travis plays an active role in the community and enjoys spending time with family.
Water damage to a basement is costly, both on your wallet and on your nerves. There are several options for basement flooring, but not all of them are ideal in situations of flooding or water leakage, which can damage your floor and floorboards. Ideally, you want to use materials that are cost-effective (won’t cost you a fortune should they need to be replaced) and offer a quick dry time without the risk of mold.
What is the best flooring for basements that flood?
The following basement flooring options are best suited for all basements, but especially for basements that are prone to water damage or have a history of water damage.
Sealed, Painted or Stained Concrete for a Cost-Effective Basement:
The least expensive and worry-free basement flooring option is your existing concrete. Rather than cover your concrete with additional materials that risk damage or mold in a water prone basement, keep your concrete exposed with a stone-look finish. There are paints, stains and epoxies available specifically for concrete floors that can add a rustic and elegant finish to your basement floor, without the added cost should your basement flood.
Luxury Vinyl Tiles for a Waterproof Basement:
Luxury vinyl tiles are elegant, water-resistant, and warm underfoot without the risk of chips or cracks like ceramic tile.The tiles install easily over concrete, with or without grout, and come in a wide range of style options, such as hardwood, slate or a stone-look finish. If water leaks or spills on the floor should happen, it’s no problem, just grab the mop, wipe, and you’re done. Vinyl flooring is made from synthetic materials rather than organic, such as plywood, hardwood and carpet, so it stands up against moisture far better.
Laminate Hardwood for a Durable Basement:
Laminate hardwood floors are a suitable basement flooring option because it is not real wood, which would get severely damaged should your basement flood, yet it looks like wood. The plastic coating of laminate hardwood adds durability and easy clean-up for those who are tougher on their floors.
Laminate flooring and subfloor system
However, what’s critical for laminate flooring is the subfloor system you install along with it. Many subfloors include plywood flooring which, once wet, can be costly to replace and has a higher risk of developing mold. To ensure this doesn’t happen, you want to add an extra layer of protection to give the flooring the ability to dry after flooding. Products like Amdry Insulated Subfloors are designed specifically for subfloor systems that require better insulation and air flow between floor and concrete.
Reduce Your Basement’s Risk of Severe Flood Water Damage
All of the basement flooring options above offer durability, water resistance and cost-effective solutions to water prone basements or basements with a history of water damage. Make sure that the basement flooring option you choose is installed by professionals who use materials that will reduce the chance of damage and mold created by excessive water, just like you would contact professionals to aide in a basement flooded by water.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for a job well done. After this past weekend’s deluge, our basement was left completely dry.
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Aileen & Wayne Dembicki
Abarent provided a 3-page, itemized list of the specific work to be done at each stage of the project, including descriptions of optional issues (including additional costs) that might arise during the work. The company president did the initial walk-through for their estimate and later went through it, line by line. He pointed out potential problems and things we had to prepare for during the work (extra cracks, concrete dust, effects on neighbors, etc.)… Repairing a foundation is a very traumatic event for any householder because all of your house investment is (literally!) in the air. If you have to do it, call Abarent. They are professional – we cannot recommend them highly enough.
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John Baker
We have had our fair share of unremarkable and even troublesome experiences with other contractors, so you guys were certainly a breath of fresh air. An honest contractor, bang on with the timeline, finished on time, within budget, your “nothing is too much trouble” attitude…and a job well done.
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Michael Abbott
It is terrific to see that your company’s motto of “Quality without Compromise” is more than just words… The job was completed ahead of schedule and the workers ensured that when they left, the yard looked just like it did when they arrive. Well, actually it looked better…
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Don and Eve Neil
Call Our Edmonton Foundation Specialists for Your Estimate