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.
Key Takeaways About Structural Engineering and Foundation Repair
Abarent Construction provides comprehensive structural engineering services with certified professionals who ensure proper foundation assessment and repair.
Professional engineers must complete extensive education and training to receive their P.Eng designation.
Engineering reports provide detailed analysis and specific repair recommendations based on scientific evaluation.
Regular structural inspections help prevent costly foundation problems and maintain property value.
Engineers use specialized tools and software to accurately assess foundation conditions.
Professional engineering oversight ensures compliance with building codes and safety standards.
Structural engineers maintain legal accountability for their work and recommendations.
Having a structural engineer and professional construction specialist involved in the repair process for your project can provide essential structural analysis and load calculations for your property. Your home foundation requires comprehensive site investigations and geotechnical reports to assess its structural integrity. Most homes were originally designed and constructed according to standardized building codes and safety standards. An engineer brings specialized material testing expertise and engineering consultations to every project so that we can evaluate where those standardized approaches need customization. Abarent is equipped with an APEGA Permit to Practice and an in-house engineer who performs thorough structural integrity tests to develop a customized solution for the underlying cause of the fracturing or settlement that is occurring.
Basement Transformation After Engineering-Guided Repairs
Professional Qualifications and Requirements for Structural Engineers
An engineer is a qualified professional who specializes in structural analysis, design planning, and construction oversight for both existing and new structures. To become an engineer in Canada, professionals must meet and maintain these essential 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 fulfills these qualifications, they receive their P. Eng designation and must adhere to their provincial code of ethics.
Essential Professional Credentials and Verification Methods
These are crucial elements to verify when confirming an engineer’s qualifications:
The APEGA Permit To Practice Requirements
“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
Professional Engineering Stamp Requirements and Usage
The engineering stamp is officially issued by the provincial association and includes the engineering association’s seal.
An engineer applies their stamp when authenticating structural calculations and construction documents. Each stamp must include the engineer’s signature and authentication date.
Comprehensive Engineering Documentation and Reports
While contractors might offer inspection reports, they may recommend repairs that prioritize profit over necessity. Having a licensed engineer with professional liability insurance complete the assessment ensures that the recommended remediation plan focuses solely on essential structural modifications.
Professional Accountability and Engineering Ethics
Licensed engineers are bound by strict professional standards and their provincial governing body’s regulations. They maintain legal responsibility to prevent harm or loss resulting from their work. Having an engineer perform structural analysis and create detailed repair plans provides authoritative documentation that eliminates the need for additional contractor opinions.
The Role of Structural Engineers in Foundation Assessment
Structural engineers employ advanced foundation assessment tools and conduct thorough site investigations. These professionals utilize specialized equipment like crack gauges and laser levels for precise measurements. Structural engineers detect subtle foundation settlement indicators through detailed monitoring. They analyze soil composition and evaluate its impact on structural integrity. Understanding early warning signs of foundation deterioration enables timely intervention and cost-effective repairs.
Structural Engineers and Building Code Compliance
Structural engineers ensure all construction meets current building codes and safety standards. They maintain expertise in evolving regulations and construction specifications. These professionals interpret complex technical requirements for property owners. Structural engineers prepare comprehensive project documentation. Consulting qualified structural engineering professionals prevents code violations and ensures proper permit approval.
The Impact of Structural Engineers on Insurance Claims
Structural engineers provide expert assessments for insurance purposes. Their detailed reports carry significant weight with insurance providers. These professionals conduct thorough damage evaluations and cost analyses. Structural engineers guide homeowners through claim documentation. Professional structural engineering assessments significantly impact property value and insurance coverage.
Structural Engineers in Renovation Projects
Structural engineers perform essential load calculations for safe renovations. They evaluate load-bearing structures before modification. These professionals design comprehensive support systems for open concepts. Structural engineers ensure additions maintain building integrity. Professional engineering oversight for basement modifications prevents structural issues.
The Role of Structural Engineers in Disaster Preparedness
Structural engineers assess building resilience against natural disasters. They recommend specific reinforcement measures for existing structures. These professionals design buildings to resist environmental stresses. Structural engineers develop safety protocols based on thorough analysis. Engineering-guided foundation repairs enhance structural disaster resistance.
Structural Engineers and Sustainable Construction
Structural engineers integrate sustainable materials into design specifications. They optimize structural efficiency for energy conservation. These professionals evaluate environmental impacts of construction methods. Structural engineers balance sustainability with building integrity. Understanding various engineering-approved repair techniques helps select environmentally conscious solutions.
The Importance of Structural Engineers in Historic Preservation
Structural engineers assess historic building integrity using specialized methods. They create preservation strategies maintaining architectural authenticity. These professionals employ non-invasive testing for heritage structures. Structural engineers integrate modern safety requirements with historical preservation. Professional underpinning methods preserve historic integrity while ensuring stability.
Structural Engineers and Modern Technology Integration
Structural engineers utilize advanced modeling software for precise analysis. They collaborate with construction teams through digital platforms. These professionals identify potential issues before construction begins. Structural engineers manage building lifecycles through technology. Advanced engineering drafting services provide accurate solutions for complex projects.
Important Information about Structural Engineering Services
Structural engineers typically use specialized equipment including laser levels, crack monitors, and moisture meters during foundation inspections.
Professional structural inspections should be scheduled every 3-5 years for residential properties.
Structural engineers provide detailed documentation and expert testimony that significantly strengthens insurance claims for foundation damage.
A comprehensive structural engineering assessment typically costs between $500 and $3,000 depending on property size and complexity.
Structural engineers evaluate foundation condition through visual inspection, measurement tools, and soil analysis to determine repair needs.
Modern structural engineers utilize CAD software, finite element analysis programs, and 3D modeling tools.
A thorough structural inspection usually takes 2-4 hours to complete.
Professional foundation repairs typically last 25-30 years when properly engineered and maintained.
Experienced structural engineers conduct an average of 150-200 foundation inspections annually.
Regular structural inspections can prevent approximately 70% of major foundation issues.
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:
concretenetwork.com
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:
vattihome.com
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:
thearepa.com
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.
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
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
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
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
Call Our Edmonton Foundation Specialists for Your Estimate
