Hidden Threats to Building Health
A Silent Assault: Structural Vibrations
Vibration poses a significant structural risk, especially for industrial structures, buildings located near bridges or subway lines, and those in high-traffic areas. In addition, mechanical and electrical system equipment within the building can generate similar effects. Over time:
- Micro-cracks in reinforced concrete elements,
- Loosening in load-bearing systems,
- Fatigue in reinforcement steel.
According to the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, such dynamic loads weaken the performance of a building’s structural system in the long term and increase maintenance costs.
At DKM, we develop project-specific solutions to minimize these effects through detailed design strategies, material selections, and damping systems. Vibration isolation is one of the most effective ways to extend the lifespan of a structure.
Noise: Not Just a Nuisance, but a Risk Factor
Noise is often associated solely with comfort. However, structural noise can also lead to physical effects such as material fatigue and spatial deformation. Moreover, these sounds are often high-frequency and beyond the range of human hearing.
According to a study published by TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye), buildings exposed to continuous noise are affected by environmental stress factors more rapidly.
DKM enhances user comfort and ensures structural safety through systems for acoustic insulation, resonance control, and environmental noise management. These systems can be applied across a wide range of structures, from residential buildings to industrial facilities.
Micro-Damage: If Not Detected Early, It Grows
Micro-cracks, early signs of corrosion, and surface deformations… Each can be a precursor to major structural damage if not addressed in time.
A small crack on the surface may weaken the load-bearing element, allow moisture to penetrate, trigger corrosion in the reinforcement steel, and ultimately reduce the structural integrity of the building.
According to the Chamber of Architects of Türkiye, 70% of structural micro-damages occur within the first five years, and the majority progress because they go undetected in time.
The DKM Approach: Seeing the Unseen, Protecting the Future
At DKM, we ensure the durability of buildings not only against external factors but also against invisible internal threats. Every structure behaves differently, and therefore, each solution must be tailored to the specific project.
- Vibration Control and Damping Design
- Acoustic Reporting and Noise Insulation
Through these comprehensive services, we secure not only the current performance of buildings but also their long-term resilience.
Just like living beings, buildings deteriorate not only due to visible factors but also because of hidden influences. Vibration, noise, and micro-level damage can gradually lead to problems that are difficult to reverse. Therefore, protecting a building’s health is only possible through early detection of these threats and collaboration with expert solution partners.
DKM, with its vision of “healthy buildings,” brings not only engineering expertise to projects, but also longevity, safety, and sustainability.
References
- Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change – “Building Physics and Risk Report”
https://csb.gov.tr - TÜBİTAK Science and Technology Journal – “Acoustic Performance and Noise Management in Buildings”
https://bilimteknik.tubitak.gov.tr - Chamber of Architects of Türkiye – “Early Detection of Structural Micro-Damage”
https://www.mimarlarodasi.org.tr
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