'

Pull Testing: The Essential Service That Sets PROSOCO Apart

In the realm of facade construction and stabilization, the integrity and durability of wall assemblies is paramount, especially when it involves a structure's safety and longevity. One critical method for ensuring this integrity is pull testing—a service that not only measures the strength of a wall assembly but also can save contractors and building owners thousands of dollars.

Pull-testing services are complimentary when working with PROSOCO's Anchoring Systems
Pull-testing services are complimentary when working with PROSOCO's Anchoring Systems

Unlike its competitors, PROSOCO offers this essential service as part of a complete package included with any PROSOCO anchor job. In addition to free pull-testing, that package also includes comprehensive pull test reports, on-site training and continuous field support throughout the project – a level of support that our customers tell us time and time again they cannot find elsewhere. Jeff Scarpelli, PROSOCO's experienced Products Engineer for masonry anchors, sheds light on the invaluable benefits of pull testing. 

Why Pull Testing is Non-Negotiable

Pull testing, as Scarpelli explains, is vital for every wall anchoring project due to the life safety implications and the unpredictable nature of facade stabilization work. It measures the strength of wall assemblies, particularly when retrofits or post-installed anchoring systems are involved. Conditions on real-world projects can drastically differ from those in a controlled laboratory environment, meaning actual performance might not align with lab test values. This discrepancy underscores the importance of pull testing when it comes to creating a tailored solution to meet the specific needs of each project and wall.

Scarpelli says it’s important to test both the backup wall and the veneer material separately for accurate results. This helps identify the weakest link in the wall assembly, ensuring that solutions are not just theoretically sound but practically viable. He illustrates this point with the example of a brick veneer with an old, rotted wood stud backup, highlighting how testing only the composite strength might give a false sense of security.

Unlike its competitors, PROSOCO offers this essential service as part of a complete package included with any PROSOCO anchor job.

The PROSOCO Advantage: Comprehensive Support and Savings

PROSOCO’s commitment to pull testing as a free service provides a stark contrast to the industry standard, where contractors must often hire third parties at substantial costs, typically around $2,000, for these tests. PROSOCO’s approach includes not just the testing itself but an entire package of support services. From site visit training that ensures the correct installation and use of products, to detailed pull test reports that guide decision-making, PROSOCO ensures that each project benefits from tailored, effective solutions. The support doesn’t end when the pull test is complete. Ongoing field support ensures that contractors have expert advice and assistance at every project stage.

By offering pull testing and comprehensive field support for free, PROSOCO not only saves contractors significant expenses but also ensures the highest safety and performance standards are met. PROSOCO is committed to this level of excellence and customer support because we believe a deep understanding of the industry is important to deliver reliable, cost-effective solutions for facade stabilization and wall assembly integrity.

Helical pull test unit, also called a bell test unit
Helical pull test unit, also called a bell test unit

A Testament to Innovation and Customer Commitment

At PROSOCO, we want to be more than a manufacturer of anchors. We strive to be our customers’ partner invested in the success and safety of each project. We hope our philosophy on providing free pull-testing services to any PROSOCO anchor project demonstrates our commitment to innovation and quality, and aligns with our mission of empowering and inspiring others to build better.

chevron-logo

Benson Polytechnic High School in Portland, Oregon, is undergoing a $400 million restoration. Photo courtesy Matt Herz

Anchor Systems

Benson High School gets customized anchor support

Built in 1906, Benson Polytechnic High School in Portland, Ore., boasts many things: a storied past that includes its conversion into a hospital during the Spanish flu era of 1918-1920; a community that treasures its historical significance as the oldest high school in Oregon; a reputation as an exceptional trade[…]

Pull-testing services are complimentary when working with PROSOCO's Anchoring Systems

Anchor Systems

What is a pull test, and why would I need one?

PROSOCO's Jeff Scarpelli shares what you need to know about this test of wall strength. Whether a pull test is requested, or required, on your project, you may be wondering why it's needed, what it measures, and what to do with the results. To answer these questions, we sat down[…]

Anchor Systems

Herald of helicals

John Montecalvo is on a mission to spread the good news about helical beaming and its ability to minimize life safety hazards and wall restoration costs.  Each year, our national building stock grows one year older and either one year closer to needing repair, or another year overdue for it.[…]