What Are Installations of Crack Monitoring and Level Monitoring?
Sometimes it is necessary to monitor the movement of a property or structure to ensure its stability or to understand the pattern of movement and what might be causing it. At CTS we offer two main types of monitoring services during an investigation of subsidence: crack monitoring and level monitoring.
Our Crack Monitoring and Level Monitoring Services:
Crack Monitoring
Crack monitoring is the process of tracking the opening and closing of cracks in a structure or wall for movement.
Crack Monitoring can be undertaken both internally and externally around a property.
Our crack monitoring services are regularly used by property developers, insurance companies and structural engineers, loss adjusters, and solicitors, and are typically used when subsidence is occurring or where building work is being completed.
Following each survey, we provide easy-to-understand graphs and reports. The data and reports can help ascertain the significance of the movement, the type of movement, and therefore the potential cause.
Crack Monitoring Testing Process
The crack monitoring process includes systematically measuring and recording changes in width, length, and orientation of cracks either in a wall or a structure. The crack monitoring testing process involves the following key stages:
- Initial Assessment And Setup
- Installation Of Monitoring Devices
- Initial Measurement
- Ongoing Monitoring
- Data Analysis
- Interpretation And Reporting
- Repeat Monitoring
Level Monitoring
Level monitoring is used to record the movement of the footprint of a property or structure to precise levels.
Using the latest technology, our level monitoring surveys provide comprehensive results of when and how much a foundation is moving.
A comprehensive report is provided which gives greater detail as to how the property is moving and specifically which area of the property.
Level Monitoring Testing Process
At CTS we pride ourselves on adhering to best practices and using accurate measurement tools to ensure the reliability and usefulness of all collected data. Our level monitoring testing process includes the following key stages:
- Initial Assessment And Planning
- Installation Of Monitoring Devices
- Baseline Measurement
- Ongoing Monitoring
- Data Analysis
- Interpretation And Reporting
- Mapping And Visualisation
- Continuous Monitoring
- Detailed Reporting
- Actionable Insights And Recommendations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is level monitoring?
Level Monitoring is a process of monitoring the foundation movement in a structure to precise levels. It is a more expensive form of monitoring than crack monitoring, but it can provide more in-depth results as to when, how, and how much a building's foundation is moving.
How do you measure subsidence?
Elevation or elevation-change measurements are fundamental to monitoring land subsidence. They are measured by using interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR), continuous GPS (CGPS) measurements, campaign global positioning system (GPS) surveying, and spirit-leveling surveying.
Why should subsidence be monitored?
Monitoring may be required over several months to ensure that cracks are indications of anything more than superficial damage. If the house is moving and the damage continues to worsen, your insurer may decide to monitor your property over several months before agreeing to repairs.
How do you monitor structural movement?
One of the most commonly used methods is crack monitoring to determine whether there is ongoing movement in the building. Small metal studs are inserted on either side of the cracks, and regular readings are taken to ascertain whether the cracks are opening or closing. Typically, as little as 1mm movement can be detected.
Why Choose CTS for Installations of Crack and Level Monitoring?
At CTS our specialist team provides fast, effective, and accurate level and crack monitoring services to property developers, insurance companies, structural engineers, loss adjusters, and solicitors. We pride ourselves on delivering a professional service to all our clients.
To find out more about our level and crack monitoring services, please get in touch with a member of the CTS team today, and we’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services and how we can help you.
