Forensic Engineering for Historic Structures

Description

Historic buildings and structures can show signs of distress or damage, but require an investigation to understand the root cause of the issue. Forensic engineering is the field of engineering where we assess and diagnose problems. Information from the investigation and materials testing is used to develop repair and restoration solutions that address issues appropriately and compatibly. Incompatible and inappropriate repairs can inadvertently lead to premature failure and limit the life-span of the structure. Forensic techniques can be used on a variety of types of construction and building materials to promote durability and resiliency. This presentation will use case studies to illustrate examples of how forensic engineering has been used for restoration and rehabilitation projects. Case studies will include historic stone masonry, terra cotta and steel structure, and exposed concrete.

Speaker Info

Amy Woods, PE, FAPT
Braun Intertec
awoods@braunintertec.com
312-859-0976

Speaker Bio

Amy Woods, PE, FAPT, is a principal engineer with Braun Intertec. Ms. Woods has over 25 years of experience in the field of forensic engineering of building materials, both historic and contemporary structures. Her experience includes facade and failure investigations with materials such as brick, masonry, terra cotta, stone, concrete, terrazzo, and stucco. Ms. Woods focuses on material consulting and collaborating with laboratory services on projects. From the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Ms. Woods obtained a BS in Architecture, MA in Architecture Historic Preservation, and MS in Civil Engineering Building Materials with a focus on cement chemistry. She is a licensed professional engineer in multiple states. Ms. Woods is a Fellow of the Association for Preservation Technology International (APT) and past Co-Chair of the Preservation Engineering Technical Committee (PETC), past Board member of the International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) Seattle and Chicago chapters, Existing Masonry Committee member for The Masonry Society (TMS), and founder of Women in Restoration & Engineering (WiRE).

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