About the Project
Building P-72 at Canadian Forces Base Borden is a heritage military facility constructed in the 1940s, notable for its large-span pitched-chord Warren trusses. Over decades of service, the structure has supported critical base operations while enduring the effects of age, environmental exposure, and prior reinforcement work. Q Engineering was engaged to perform a comprehensive structural inspection, focusing on identifying deterioration, assessing load-carrying components, and aligning rehabilitation strategies with the CETO Manual. The result was a clear, actionable plan to preserve the building’s historical integrity while ensuring its safety, functionality, and compliance with current engineering standards.
We specialize in full-scope services — from feasibility studies to permit approvals and construction-phase support — tailored to meet the complex needs of government clients.
Project Snapshot
- 9 Warren trusses inspected (pitched-chord timber trusses)
- CETO-aligned prioritization for urgent, short, medium, and long-term actions
- Comprehensive deficiency register and member-by-member condition scoring
From Inspection to Modernization
Preserving a heritage military building
Building P-72, located at Canadian Forces Base Borden, is a 1940s heritage facility featuring large-span pitched-chord Warren trusses. With decades of service and prior reinforcement work, the structure required a detailed condition assessment to ensure continued safety, compliance, and long-term performance.
CETO-aligned structural inspection
Our team completed an element-by-element visual inspection of all trusses, bracing, and purlins. Each structural member was scored for condition, and deficiencies were categorized using the CETO Manual’s urgency bands — Urgent, Short-Term, Medium-Term, and Long-Term. Recommendations were developed for reinforcement, repair, or replacement.
A clear roadmap for rehabilitation
The inspection produced a prioritized action plan, allowing the client to schedule repairs and maintenance over multiple budget cycles. The plan also recommended a regular inspection cadence to ensure ongoing safety and compliance.
Detailed Structural Findings
1- Building & Truss Description
- 9 timber Warren trusses with steel post-tension rods (trusses 2–8).
- Gable roof with purlins and bracing inspected for structural integrity.
2- Inspection Methodology
- Visual inspection from accessible points (floor, ladder, and available plenum spaces).
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Condition scoring based on surface deterioration, connection integrity, and deformation.
3- Deficiency Prioritization
- Urgent: Replace damaged splice blocks, sistering cracked members, secure loose connections.
- Short-Term: Reinforce bracing, tighten bolts, add anti-check clamps.
- Medium/Long-Term: Preventative shimming, localized reinforcement, ongoing monitoring.
4- Recommended Corrective Actions
- Use of structural-grade sister members for reinforcement.
- Targeted replacement of deteriorated wood and hardware
- Annual inspections for high-risk members; 3–5 years for low-risk members.
Collaboration for Success
This project was delivered in close coordination with WSP and Defence Construction Canada, ensuring that inspection methodology, reporting, and recommendations met the highest industry and government standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
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1. What is a Warren truss and why is it used in large-span buildings?
A Warren truss is a triangular-pattern truss that efficiently distributes loads, making it ideal for large-span military, industrial, and civic structures.
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2. How are deficiencies prioritized in a structural inspection?
Using the CETO Manual, deficiencies are ranked by urgency — from immediate safety issues to long-term preventative actions.
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3. Can heritage buildings like Building P-72 be modernized without altering their appearance?
Yes. Structural reinforcement can be designed to maintain the original aesthetic while meeting modern safety standards.
