RESOURCES
Academic publications, research findings, and industry insights from our collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology.
Research & Development
At Strand Forensic Engineering, we are committed to advancing the industry through rigorous research. In collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology, our research focuses on structural damage assessment, expansive soil behavior, and foundation design improvements. Our studies contribute to better engineering solutions for residential buildings, particularly in mitigating the risks associated with climate conditions and soil movement.
Guidelines for Homeowners
Essential maintenance tips to protect your home from structural damage.
Guidelines for Builders
Best practices for construction to prevent structural issues.
Academic Publications
Forensic Investigation of Foundation Movement in Reactive Clay Soils
This study examines the relationship between soil reactivity and foundation movement, providing insights for forensic engineering assessments.
Smith, A., et al. (2023). Australian Geotechnical Journal, 45(3), 112-125.
Read More →Structural Assessment Methodologies for Residential Buildings
A comprehensive review of modern structural assessment techniques for residential buildings affected by ground movement.
Johnson, R., et al. (2022). Engineering Structures International, 78(2), 89-102.
Read More →Project Highlights
Strand Forensic Engineering
We recently investigated a rare case where a fully piled slab lifted dramatically, cracking almost every pile head along the edge beams. The lesson? Even with piles, soil behaviour and slab design can’t be ignored. Case is ongoing - more to come once legal proceedings are complete.
Strand Forensic Engineering
STRAND Forensic Engineering recently completed a complex investigation in the Riverina region of NSW, where a large rural home built on expansive Clay soils had developed significant structural distress only a few years after completion. Cracks had formed around door and window openings, cornices had separated, and external brickwork was showing signs of movement.
Strand Forensic Engineering
Designing or building a damage-free house on unstable or moving soil is always a challenge. In fact, the Australian Standard AS2870 outlines the types of damage commonly seen in homes built on reactive (expansive) soils.