Case Study: Four Story Assisted Living Facility Alleges Unacceptable Design and Construction Defects; What Can We Learn?

Abstract

A four story, 22,200 m 2 (239,000 ft 2 ) wood light-framed assisted-living residential structure was examined for the causes of multiple alleged construction and design defects. The structure was framed using certain "advanced framing" techniques. Observed defects included uneven floors, window and door operation problems, misaligned I-joists and detailing problems with the building envelope. Alleged design defects related to structural engineering included wood shrinkage, uneven and excessive settlement and inadequate design documents. We discuss our approach and methods towards the investigation, including steps taken to ensure fairness in our examination. We present the possible defects in design and construction that we discovered which were easily preventable. We will present recommendations for practicing design professionals and code officials including: • Reasonable tolerances for light framed wood construction,• Additional details or specifications to clarify design intent,