The Strathcona Hall, a historic building at McGill University, showed advanced deterioration of its foundation and interior brick walls. To preserve this heritage gem and extend its useful life, structural reinforcement was essential. Atwill-Morin was commissioned to carry out this complex work, combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technologies.
ICRI (International Concrete Repair Institute) Award-Winning Project
Transforming At-Risk Foundations into an Unshakable Base
Your building has rested on solid foundations for decades, but time takes its toll. After complete excavation of the Strathcona Pavilion perimeter, we enlarged the pile heads with new concrete, then added anchors at the base of the walls using threaded rods and pressurized cement grout, housed in a sleeve that fits the masonry cavities. New reinforcement and a new wall thickness were then added.
To adapt to the complex shape of the foundation, we opted for shotcrete, a technical solution that ensures optimal adhesion and uniform load distribution. The result? Reinforced, smooth walls that are structurally compliant with the most demanding current standards.
The final protection: professional waterproofing membrane, optimized drainage system with sumps, and methodical backfilling.
Combining Heritage and Technology
As an owner of a historic building, you know the dilemma: how to reinforce the masonry of a century-old structure without destroying its authenticity? We solved this puzzle by completing a Canadian first with MAPEI‘s FRCM (Fiber-Reinforced Cementitious Matrix) system. This cutting-edge technology involves applying a fiber-reinforced cementitious matrix, which significantly increases wall strength while respecting their historic composition. Moreover, FRCM reinforcement stands out for its ability to let masonry breathe, unlike epoxy-based systems. Result: your heritage investment is protected like never before.
Meticulous Masonry Preparation
Before even considering reinforcement, we know your masonry must be impeccable. That’s why our masons always begin with complete restoration: replacement of damaged bricks, professional repointing, and integration of stainless-steel helical bars to stabilize critical areas. Surfaces were also thoroughly cleaned to eliminate efflorescence and prepare the masonry to receive the mortar and fiber layers. Cleaning was performed with dry ice, a water-free method particularly suited to interior work.
Application of the FRCM System
Once the masonry was ready, application of the fiberglass mesh could begin. These were integrated with specialized repair mortars, forming a reinforced and homogeneous envelope. Unlike traditional methods that rigidify (and crack), this approach increases ductility: your walls absorb movements instead of cracking. It’s a system that offers both strength and durability while remaining compatible with traditional materials.
To complete this system, carbon fiber wicks were inserted into the structure and fixed using resins and epoxy mastics. This step ensures structural continuity between walls and floors, creating lasting cohesion over time.
Metal Reinforcements for the Roof
We also contributed to reinforcing the roof structure. Metal reinforcements were installed, in addition to the FRCM system, precisely targeting critical areas between existing beams. Simultaneously, the masonry under the beam supports was consolidated using helical rods: joints were opened, anchors inserted horizontally, then joints filled back in, ensuring solid and durable reinforcement.
Once the FRCM system application was complete, the premises were fully restored. Insulation and wall thickness were rebuilt identically using new metal framing, moldings, and gypsum boards.
Result: a building that is both safer and still faithful to its original character. Your legal liability is protected, your occupants are safe, and your real estate asset is enhanced.
By combining innovation, masonry expertise, and heritage conservation, we help preserve iconic buildings in Quebec and Canada for decades to come.
Do you have a heritage building in peril? We master the technologies that will save it.
