Blog
November 19, 2024

Navigating Compliance & Safety in Underground Garage Restoration

Underground garage restoration is a challenging but rewarding process. Underground garages are growing in popularity, especially in Canada’s most bustling cities, so it’s of utmost importance that the functionality and appearance of a neglected or deteriorating parking facility are revitalized and enhanced. With proper planning and execution, underground garage restoration can breathe new life into an essential but often overlooked part of a building.

Key Factors to Consider

It’s important to have your underground garage inspected regularly by a professional to determine if it requires restoration services. Some of the key factors include:

Cracks & Deterioration

If there are cracks or signs of deterioration on the walls, floors, ceiling, or columns, this can indicate structural issues.

Water Damage

Leaks and moisture buildup can lead to further deterioration. Water damage should always be addressed early on.

Corrosion

Metal elements, such as support beams, railings, etc. should be inspected for signs of corrosion as it can weaken the structure of the garage over time.

Safety Concerns

If there are any safety concerns such as loose railings, inadequate lighting or markings, or unstable slab on grade, they should be addressed immediately to avoid potential hazards.

Proper Ventilation

Adequate ventilation prevents the buildup of harmful gasses, specifically carbon monoxide. Your underground garage requires proper exhaust fans and vents.

Lighting & Electrical Systems

Your garage should have sufficient lighting to ensure visibility and safety for anyone using the space and that the electrical systems meet code requirements to prevent fire hazards.

rules and regulations regarding how to maintain or even paint your underground garage

Is Your Underground Garage Up to Code?

Before proceeding with any restoration services, it’s also important to hire a professional to ensure your garage meets the necessary building codes. This isn’t just a place where cars park… It's much more complex than that. The codes and regulations are something many property owners don’t understand as they can be difficult to navigate. The following have all of their own rules and regulations regarding how to maintain or even paint your underground garage:

  • Fire Code
  • Ontario Building Code
  • Ministry of Labour
  • and TSSA (Technical Standards & Safety Authority)
  • OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration)
  • OHSA (Occupational Health & Safety Act)
  • CSA (Canadian Standards Association)
  • The Municipal Property Standards Code or municipal by-laws
  • CCOHS (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety)
  • WHMIS regulations

Throughout the regulations, you’ll find information regarding which colour sprinklers should be, drainage pipes, fire equipment, exit doors and frames, and hazards. There are also several regulations for traffic coating. You should always work with someone who has the necessary knowledge, skills and experience who can navigate these regulations with you and walk you through the complexities associated with underground garage restorations.

Common Underground Garage Restoration Services

Deteriorating concrete is one of the most common issues that our team finds during assessments. Restorations will typically fall into one of the several major categories:

  • Spalled Concrete
  • Concrete Delamination
  • De-bonded Concrete
  • Leaking Cracks
  • Leaching
  • Scaling
  • Chloride Contaminated Concrete
  • Carbonation
  • Corroded Reinforcing Steel
  • Joint Deterioration
  • Joint Leaks

We’ll provide recommendations on any repairs, installations, or other restoration measures required.

Another common issue we identify is with waterproofing systems. Water infiltration causes deterioration, damage to vehicles, flooding, and air quality issues, leading to costly repairs and long-term closures. There are several methods involved with restoring waterproofing for an underground garage.

Work With Building Science & Engineering Experts

Work With Building Science & Engineering Experts

Our team has decades of experience assessing multi-unit and municipal underground parking garages. We utilize period condition assessments that help us determine if underground parking garages require rehabilitation services such as repair of structures, concrete, drains, ramps, membranes and other items while also ensuring the underground garage is up to code. Most importantly, we can walk you through how to ensure you’re complying with safety rules and regulations so your underground garage remains sturdy and safe for many years to come. The rules and regulations regarding maintaining and even painting your underground garage can be complex, so having an expert explain in detail the various health and safety acts, building codes, and by-laws is crucial. If you have any questions about your underground garage, contact our team today. We’re thorough in our assessments and can offer recommendations for restoring your underground garage safely and efficiently.

 

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