Title:
Concrete Q&A: Modification of Existing Structure with Change in Loads
Author(s):
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
39
Issue:
9
Appears on pages(s):
88
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
9/1/2017
Abstract:
The Q&A in the May 2017 CI featured an
interesting question about existing structures. The
answer is related to one of my current projects. I
am the licensed design professional (LDP) responsible for the
structural design of a modification of a hotel building at a ski
resort. The owner wants to create an exterior rooftop terrace
(bar) on the top floor of the building by removing a portion of
the existing roof and façade. The original floor was designed
for hotel occupancy. However, the new terrace area would be
exposed to both snow loads and a higher occupancy floor
load. The existing structure is reinforced concrete beam
and slab construction from the early 1980s. What are the
appropriate code provisions for the evaluation of the existing
structure? How should I deal with the snow load (including
drifting snow) and increased live load on the new terrace area
(again, the structure was designed for residential floor loads)?