Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) is a lightweight
material that gained popularity in construction between the
1950s and 1980s.
It was thought RAAC was strong & sturdy…
…but it turns out the air bubbles inside it make it prone to
degradation.
When RAAC is compromised, buildings collapse.
The only solution was to spend millions to demolish & rebuild…
but not anymore!
Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) is a lightweight material that gained popularity in construction between the 1950s and 1980s.
It was thought RAAC was strong & sturdy…
…but it turns out the air bubbles inside it make it prone to degradation.
When RAAC is compromised, buildings collapse.
The only solution was to spend millions to demolish & rebuild…but not anymore!
ReGrid (Reinforcement Grid) technology is an innovative solution for commercial and residential concrete structures.
Utilising an industry leading bonding process known as Adhesive Riveting Technology (ART), structural epoxy forms rivets in the open grid created by carbon fibre tows woven with Kevlar® cross threads.
This chemically bonds the product to the concrete structure.
The Fortress line of products have been both lab and the real-world tested to be the strongest and most reliable concrete reinforcement products on the market.
At Structural Repairs, we have developed an innovative and effective solution to address the major issues associated with RAAC structures.
Our approach involves the use of re-grid carbon strips, which are anchored into the wall and then riveted across the span of the ceiling at spaced intervals.
ReGrid (Reinforcement Grid) technology is an innovative solution for commercial and residential concrete structures.
Utilising an industry leading bonding process known as Adhesive Riveting Technology (ART), structural epoxy forms rivets in the open grid created by carbon fibre tows woven with Kevlar® cross threads.
This chemically bonds the product to the concrete structure.
The Fortress line of products have been both lab and the real-world tested to be the strongest and most reliable concrete reinforcement products on the market.
At Structural Repairs, we have developed an innovative and effective solution to address the major issues associated with RAAC structures.
Our approach involves the use of re-grid carbon strips, which are anchored into the wall and then riveted across the span of the ceiling at spaced intervals.
Understanding the unique challenges of RAAC concrete in schools is vital
for ensuring student safety and structural integrity.
More than 234 schools affected by RAAC, the risk of structural issues has
prompted urgent action, leading to government consultations on the list of
schools closed due to concrete problems.
Understanding the unique challenges of RAAC concrete in schools is vital
for ensuring student safety and structural integrity.
More than 234 schools affected by RAAC, the risk of structural issues has
prompted urgent action, leading to government consultations on the list of schools closed due to concrete problems.
Understanding the potential dangers of RAAC in houses is crucial for homeowners.
Many residential properties built between the 1950s and 1970s may contain this material, which poses risks of structural deterioration and possible asbestos exposure.
Consulting with RAAC surveyors can help ensure safety, protect property value, and address any identified problems effectively.
Understanding the potential dangers of RAAC in houses is crucial for homeowners.
Many residential properties built between the 1950s and 1970s may contain this material, which poses risks of structural deterioration and possible asbestos exposure.
Consulting with RAAC surveyors can help ensure safety, protect property value, and address any identified problems effectively.
Understanding the impact of RAAC in public buildings is vital for ensuring safety and structural integrity.
Many hospitals and government facilities built using RAAC face risks
of moisture ingress and structural deterioration. The current RAAC crisis highlights the need for detailed assessments across the list of buildings affected by RAAC.
Understanding the impact of RAAC in public buildings is vital for ensuring
safety and structural integrity.
Many hospitals and government facilities built using RAAC face risks of moisture ingress and structural deterioration. The current RAAC crisis highlights the need for detailed assessments across the list of buildings affected by RAAC.
Cracking and spalling:
Prevent further deterioration caused by moisture ingress.
Reduced load-bearing capacity:
Restore the integrity and safety of your structure.
Corrosion of steel reinforcement:
Protect against long-term degradation affecting structural capacity.
Cracking and spalling: Prevent further deterioration caused by moisture ingress.
Reduced load-bearing capacity: Restore the integrity and safety of your structure.
Corrosion of steel reinforcement: Protect against long-term degradation affecting structural capacity.
Stay proactive – understand the condition of your concrete assets before issues arise.
For renovation and safety: Understanding what lies beneath the surface is critical for the continuity and safety of your RAAC buildings.
Preventative maintenance: Invest in proactive repairs to extend the life expectancy of your structures.
Streamlined process: Our non-invasive approach means minimal disruption while delivering maximum effectiveness.
For renovation and safety: Understanding what lies
beneath the surface is critical for the continuity and
safety of your RAAC buildings.
Preventative maintenance: Invest in proactive
repairs to extend the life expectancy of your structures.
Streamlined process: Our non-invasive approach
means minimal disruption while delivering maximum effectiveness.
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions on RAAC concrete
Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) is a lightweight precast concrete material made from a mixture of sand, cement, lime, and aluminum powder. Known for its insulating properties and used primarily in roofs and walls during the mid-20th century, RAAC has a long history in construction but has recently raised concerns about its structural integrity and durability.
Considering repairs is critical because RAAC can deteriorate over time, leading to potential safety risks, such as structural failures and moisture-related damage. Addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the safety of residents, protect property values, and comply with regulatory requirements.
RAAC repairs can address a variety of issues, including:
The repair process typically involves a thorough assessment of the RAAC structure, identifying any areas of concern. Following this, specialized techniques, such as using carbon strips or other reinforcement methods, are applied to restore strength and integrity. The process may also include moisture management strategies and surface treatments to prevent further deterioration.
Yes, when conducted by qualified professionals, RAAC repairs are safe and effective in restoring the structural integrity of affected areas. The techniques used, such as carbon strip reinforcement, have been proven to enhance strength while minimizing disruption to existing structures.
The duration of the repair process can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific methods used. However, most repairs can be completed relatively quickly, often within a few days, ensuring minimal disruption to the property.
Yes, after the repair process is complete, you will receive a detailed report summarising the work performed, the condition of the RAAC structure, and any recommendations for future maintenance or monitoring.
While many of the techniques used for RAAC repairs are specific to RAAC structures, some solutions can also be adapted for use with other types of concrete and lightweight building materials. It’s important to consult with a structural engineer or RAAC specialist for specific recommendations.
It is advisable to inspect your RAAC structure regularly, typically every one to two years, or more frequently if there are signs of deterioration, such as cracks or moisture issues. Regular inspections help ensure that any problems are identified early, allowing for timely repairs.
To schedule a consultation for RAAC repairs, you can contact us directly through our website or by phone. Our team will be happy to discuss your concerns, arrange a site visit, and provide expert advice on the appropriate repair solutions for your needs.
No, while both are lightweight materials, RAAC and breeze blocks (or concrete blocks) are not the same. Breeze blocks are typically made from a concrete mix that is denser and does not have the aerated properties that characterise RAAC.