Wall anchors: a reliable support during the holidays
Elegant light fixtures with hundreds of lights create a festive atmosphere and warmth for shoppers, but at the same time, they place a significant additional load on the wall anchors. Add strong gusts of wind, freezing rain, or a heavy layer of snow to the mix, and the question arises whether the anchors—after years of loyal service—can still support all that extra weight.
Holiday Lights
Unfortunately, this won’t be the first time a wall anchor has given way. Especially during this time of year (when it’s traditionally busy), it’s important for public safety to know whether the wall anchors can sufficiently withstand the tensile force, are securely anchored in the facade, and— last but not least —are still of good quality. This is especially true when they’re going to be subjected to the extra load of festive lighting. A measurement is the way to gain this necessary insight. After all, to measure is to know.
Measuring Wall Anchors
Normec Rei-Lux regularly conducts measurements of wall anchors for many municipalities in the Netherlands. The first step involves determining the number and exact locations of the anchor points. To this end, the client provides a measurement list with the locations of the anchors. Once this information is available, the project can get underway quickly. The next step is to inform shop owners and residents in the area. All in all, the preparations can be completed in about three weeks.
On the day(s) of measurement, Normec Rei-Lux arrives on-site with four survey technicians, two aerial work platforms, and the necessary equipment. Prior to the measurement, a calculation is made of the desired load capacity, taking into account external factors such as wind and snow. The required load-bearing capacity is determined by adding an extra margin. The actual measurement is typically performed using the dual measurement method, in which a single device pulls on two wall anchors simultaneously. At locations where this is difficult, Normec Rei-Lux uses the solitary method, with a measuring bracket placed over the anchor. This may sound like a complex process, but with the right knowledge, technique, and extensive experience, it can be handled smoothly.
Welcoming Visitors Safely
Once it has been determined which wall anchors can or cannot support the additional weight, the weak spots can be easily remedied. The shopping streets are ready to safely welcome the public with their sparkling holiday lights.
This article was published in Straatbeeld.
