How Legend Hire Saved a Sagging Mezzanine Slab in Sydney
Legend Hire recently completed a complex concrete slab lifting project involving the controlled recovery of a sagging mezzanine slab by 80mm, without causing cracking or structural damage.
The client required a solution that maintained site operations while restoring load-bearing integrity to the slab. As a result, our team implemented a staged hydraulic jacking and temporary propping system to safely lift and stabilise the structure.
This case study highlights how engineered slab lifting techniques can resolve structural settlement issues efficiently, even in constrained commercial environments.
Project Overview: Why the Mezzanine Slab Required Recovery
A construction project in Sydney encountered a serious setback when their suspended concrete mezzanine slab sagged significantly once temporary formwork was stripped away. The cause? Under-engineering during the initial construction phase had left the slab unable to support its own weight properly.
The client contacted Legend Hire knowing they needed more than just equipment, they needed technical expertise to solve this high risk structural problem.
The Challenge: High-Stakes Lifting Operation
The Technical challenge the client faced:
- The suspended concrete slab had sagged and required lifting approximately 80mm to restore it to its designed level position
- Standard lifting operations carry significant risk of cracking or structural damage
- The greater the lifting distance, the higher the probability of concrete failure
- Any miscalculation could result in complete slab failure, creating safety hazards and costly demolition
Considerations with the project:
- Precise load distribution to prevent stress concentrations
- Controlled, gradual lifting to minimize structural shock
- Continuous monitoring throughout the operation
- Temporary support system capable of holding the slab until permanent repairs could be installed
The Solution: Engineered with Legend 50T System
Legend Hire’s technical team collaborated with the client’s structural engineers to develop a safe, effective lifting strategy.
Equipment Deployed:
- 50T Hydraulic Prop provided vertical support
- 50T Hydraulic Jack enabled controlled and allowing for incremental liftin
The Propping and jacking was positioned at the slab’s centre point as per engineered specification
Why This Configuration Worked:
- The Legend 50T system offered the perfect combination of load capacity and control. By positioning the equipment at the centre of the suspended slab according to the engineered design, we created optimal load distribution while maintaining the ability to make micro-adjustments during the lifting process.
- The hydraulic jack provided the crucial capability to lift slowly and steadily which is critical when dealing with concrete structures where rapid movement can induce cracking.
The Outcome: A Perfect Recovery
The Execution:
- Firstly, the contractor gradually lifted the slab 80mm back to its correct level position
- Which allowed for zero cracking or structural damage occurred during the lifting operation
- Then the Legend hire 50T Prop held the structure securely in position throughout the repair phase
- Which allowed for permanent reinforcement to be successfully installed while the temporary support system maintained structural integrity
- Finally the props were safely removed after permanent supports were certified
The Success Factors:
Firstly, Technical Expertise: Legend Hire’s team provided equipment guidance based on load calculations and structural requirements. Secondly, Quality Equipment: This Industrial grade 50 tonne system is designed for high-stakes applications. Thirdly, Controlled Process: Hydraulic precision allowed gradual lifting that prevented shock loading. and finally Collaborative Approach: Working closely with the client and engineers ensured compliance with all structural specifications.
Why Choose Legend Hire for Industrial Propping & Jacking?
This project exemplifies what sets Legend Hire apart in the Australian construction equipment Hire market!
Technical Support You Can Trust
Legend Hire doesn’t just hire you equipment, we work with you to understand your project requirements, and recommend the right solution. Whether you’re dealing with concrete slab recovery, bridge construction, building underpinning, or complex formwork support, our technical experts provide guidance every step of the way.
Industrial-Strength Equipment
We specialise in heavy-duty propping and jacking equipment designed for Australian projects:
- Hydraulic props from 10T to 50T capacity
- Hydraulic jacks for controlled lifting operations
- Props and adjustable steel supports
- Complete shoring and formwork systems
Nationwide Coverage
With hire locations across Australia’s, Legend Hire is positioned to support your project:
- Sydney
- Brisbane
- Sunshine Coast
- Victoria
