Palma Del Mar IV is a condominium structure in St Petersburg, Florida. Structural Preservation Systems (SPS) was contracted by the condominium association to perform concrete repairs, replace expansion joints, and install a urethane deck coating on the condominium's parking garage.

Going into the project, SPS was aware that the garage was designed with an elevated flat slab with banded post tension cables running over the column lines in two directions. What was not readily apparent, however, was the deterioration to the monostrand post tension cables because the lack of proper coverage over the cables had allowed water infiltration.

At that point, a survey of the post-tension cable system was conducted. The initial phase of the survey examined the condition of the high and low points of the topside and underside of the slab to determine positive and negative reinforcement. Technicians also looked to see if water had infiltrated the bottom of the sheathing. While on the surface it was apparent that only 2 cables were broken, careful investigation located 9 others that were broken or close to breaking. Ultimately, it was determined that 7 main cables needed to be repaired, 8 anchors had to be replaced, 5 add-ons were required, and 108 anchor pockets needed cleaning and trimming.

The repairs consisted of greasing and re-sheathing of the unbroken exposed strands, full length cable repairs, replacement of extensively corroded anchors with excessive slippage and loss of section, and cleaning and trimming of anchor pockets. Additionally, sacrificial anodes were placed every 20 to 24 inches per square foot area and the reinforcing bars treated with a corrosion inhibitor (except in areas where leads from the anodes tied onto the bar). The skill of the crew in keeping concrete removal to a minimum and the prompt delivery of materials by VSL, another Structural Group company, were key features in the successful completion of these repairs.

All repairs were completed in an accident-free environment while the parking garage remained operational. With the assistance of VSL and the resources of SPS, the project to finished on-time, under-budget, and to the great satisfaction of the client.