Structural Analysis of Historic Buildings

Due to a combination of cultural and economic factors, the past several decades have produced a marked increase in the restoration, preservation, and reuse of historic buildings. Architects and engineers involved in this burgeoning industry experience difficulty determining the basis of the original designs and the capacity of structural components and building systems. They need a dependable source of accurate and detailed information that takes the guesswork out of bringing new life to old buildings. Structural Analysis of Historic Buildings presents the actual technical data and calculation methods that were available to architects and engineers at the time a material or system was originally used. Architects and engineers will learn how to determine what kind of loads structural components were originally designed to bear, and whether specific components are still able to perform as originally intended. Using numerous case studies as well as line drawings, diagrams, and structural data taken directly from original sources, this book provides detailed structural information on foundation systems, walls and columns, floor systems, and roof systems. Ultimately, this information creates a reliable basis for modern certification by the professional who is responsible for the renewed life of the structure. For architects and engineers involved in preservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of historic structures, Structural Analysis of Historic Buildings is an indispensable resource and a timesaving guide. It is also an important reference for students and architectural historians.