PUBLISHED ARTICLES

Paul Jeffs has authored numerous technical articles concerning concrete and masonry. Examples are detailed below. Click on the title to view the article on-line (Some articles can be downloaded as a PDF document.)


A Tale of Two Towers
Published in Construction Canada, November 2008 - (Go to Page 10)
This article highlights the major restoration of the Church of Our Lady in Guelph, Ontario (now a Basilica) and includes details of the investigation process and the development of a restoration strategy to correct the problems causing cracking and damage to the two stone towers. How the tower walls were stabilized to prevent further cracking is described in detail.
A synopsis of this Case Study can be viewed on the Case Studies section.

Stabilizing Cracked Masonry
Published in Construction Canada, January 2007 (Go to Page 8)
This article highlights the restoration of a beautiful stone campus building at Mount Allison University in New Brunswick. It includes details regarding how major problems with cracking and destabilized foundation walls were resolved, using grouting, installation of masonry ties and reinforcement, and complete repointing of the masonry.

Cape Race Lighthouse: A Case Study
Published in Construction Canada, May 2007 (Go to Page 98)
This article features the restoration of Cape Race Lighthouse in Newfoundland which had suffered considerable cracking over the decades. The history of previous restoration is discussed, together with the development of a unique strategy which not only prevented further cracking after repair, but provided improved movement accommodation and long-lasting durability.
A synopsis of this Case Study can be viewed on the Case Studies section.

Masonry Restoration - The Importance of Cause Analysis
Published in Construction Canada, November 2010 (Go to Page 20)
This article stresses how important it is to fully understand what caused deterioration or damage that may have occurred to masonry structures - as well as the mechanisms of failure. Cameo case studies are used to illustrate where poor design or material selection contributed to a particular problem - and how failure to understand this sometimes leads to repeat failure.  

Owens Art Gallery: A Holistic Conservation Strategy
Published in Construction Canada: May 2012 (Go to Page 38)
This article examines the investigation process, conservation strategy development and restoration of  an 1895 art gallery that had suffered severe damage as a result of re-roofing work that was carried out in the 1970's.
A synopsis of this Case Study can be viewed on the Case Studies section.

Dingle Memorial Tower ~ A Study in Conservation Strategy Development
Co-Authored with Syd Dumaresq, Architect
Published in Construction Canada, April 2014 (Go to Page 33)
This article examines the investigation and restoration strategies that were developed for this National Historic Site landmark in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The mechanisms that caused the extensive damage that had occurred to both the interior and exterior are examined, as well as the combination of conventional and novel restoration materials and techniques that were used to restore the tower to a durable condition.

Modern Materials & Techniques for Historic Masonry Structures
Published in OBEC Canada's Pushing the Envelope, Spring 2011
This article examines the major differences between modern and traditional materials that can be used for the restoration of historic masonry. In particular, the article emphasises the importance of selecting materials and techniques that are compatible with the fabric of the masonry assembly.

Traditional vs Modern Repointing Mortar
 Published in Home Builder Magazine, September 2014
 This article discusses why it is important to understand the difference between modern masonry mortars and those that were used for traditional brick and stone -
 and why the wrong choice can sometimes accelerate the deterioration processes.

Restoring a Solid Foundation
Published in OBEC Canada's Pushing the Envelope, Fall 2013
This article examines materials and techniques for restoring, consolidating and stabilizing  traditional masonry. Deterioration mechanisms are discussed, together with investigation and evaluation techniques that are often used prior to the establishment of a restoration strategy. The use of cellular foam cement grout injection materials and techniques are also discussed.

Producing Quality Polished Concrete Floor Slabs
Published in Construction Canada: May 2016 (Go to Page 48)
This article evaluates the complexity of factors that influence the achievement of good quality polished floors - as well as those that can adversely influence results. 

Drones and Construction - Maximizing the Benefits while Minimizing the Risk
Published in Construction Canada: September 2016 (Go to Page 18)
This article evaluates the current use of drones within the construction industry - with particular emphasis on their benefits for building and structure inspections. Regulations that should be followed to comply with Transport Canada's requirements for commercial use are also discussed.
(Note: click here  to download the company brochure providing more information.

Concrete Cracking Problems - A Modern-Day Phenomenon?
Published in Construction Canada: October 2016 (Go to Page 54)
This article explains the author's theory that today's concrete is more susceptible to cracking - and explores the reasons why.