Partition demolition and joist strengthening in Cannes

At OMPT STRUCTURE, an engineering office specialising in structural analysis and optimisation, our mission is to ensure the safety and durability of buildings before any work begins. We recently carried out an in-depth study ahead of an apartment refurbishment project involving the demolition of partitions and the strengthening of the existing joists.

Demolishing a partition may seem simple, but it is essential to understand its role in the building's structure before intervening. During our investigations, we found that some of the partitions planned for demolition were partially load-bearing, helping to distribute the loads of the floors above. This situation, common in older buildings, calls for particular precautions to avoid any sagging or structural imbalance.

Our team of engineers carried out a detailed study in several stages:
• Site surveys: Analysis of the partitions, load-bearing elements and associated loads.
• Structural modelling: Simulation of the stresses before and after demolition.
• Technical recommendations: Temporary shoring and suitable reinforcements to guarantee stability during and after the works.
• Recommendations for strengthening the joists

To make up for the loss of load-bearing capacity of the partitions, we recommended installing steel beams in a twin-beam clamping (moisage) arrangement in one part of the apartment, fixed with threaded rods for optimal strength. In the other part of the apartment, single IPN100 beams were installed.

We also stressed the importance of suitable temporary shoring to stabilise the structure during the demolition work. Once the reinforcements were in place, we recommended applying an anti-rust treatment to the steel beams to protect the structure against corrosion and maximise its lifespan.

We remain at your disposal to support you with your construction or refurbishment projects. Whether it involves demolition, strengthening or structural optimisation, our expertise provides tailored solutions suited to your needs and the requirements of your building.