Temporary Shoring and Underpinning Design for Daycare Facility – Toronto
This project involved the structural design of temporary shoring systems and permanent underpinning works for renovations at the Upper Yonge Village Daycare Centre in Toronto, Ontario.
The scope included the design of temporary support walls, adjustable shoring props, and a staged concrete underpinning system beneath existing masonry foundations, all designed in accordance with the Ontario Building Code and applicable CSA standards.
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Completion: April 2025
Sector: Institutional (Daycare)
1. The Challenge
Renovation work required partial removal and modification of load-bearing elements within an existing occupied building footprint.
Existing Structural Conditions:
The building was supported on existing masonry foundation walls and footings, with limited tolerance for movement during construction.
Construction Sequencing Risks:
Excavation and foundation work needed to be performed in confined areas, requiring strict sequencing to maintain global stability.
Safety and Code Compliance:
Temporary works had to safely support gravity, construction, and snow loads while complying with OBC requirements and construction safety regulations.
2. The Engineering Solution
Parsways developed an integrated design addressing both temporary and permanent structural requirements.
a) Temporary Shoring Walls:
Engineered wood shoring walls with defined stud spacing, bracing, and load paths were designed to support existing framing during demolition and construction.
b) Adjustable Shoring Prop System:
Steel shoring props with verified axial capacity were specified to support rafter beams and transfer loads safely to the basement level.
c) Staged Underpinning Design:
A sequential underpinning system using reinforced concrete pins was designed, including dowels, shear keys, and curing requirements to maintain foundation stability.
3. The Outcome
The project resulted in a fully stamped, permit-ready structural design accepted by the local authority. The temporary shoring and staged underpinning allowed construction to proceed safely, controlled settlement and movement of the existing structure, and ensured long-term foundation performance in full compliance with OBC requirements and applicable CSA standards.