Co-Location Towers Structural Challenges and Solutions

Co-location towers have become increasingly valuable as telecom operators seek to expand network capacity while minimizing the cost and environmental impact of building new infrastructure. By accommodating multiple tenants on a single structure, co-location supports wider coverage and faster deployments. However, this shared use places significant additional demand on towers—many of which were not originally designed to carry the larger wind sail area and combined loading that modern equipment introduces. As a result, proper structural assessment has become a critical step in ensuring tower safety and long-term reliability.

The main engineering challenges with co-location involve managing increased wind forces, resolving complex load combinations, and ensuring that overstressed members are identified early. Multiple antennas and microwave dishes add substantial horizontal and vertical loads, often overstressing legs, bracings, connections, and even foundations. These challenges are more pronounced in older lattice towers and rooftop installations, where original design margins may be limited. With precise structural modelling, member-by-member checks, and foundation evaluations, engineers can determine the most efficient reinforcement strategy and ensure compliance with relevant standards.

At Wes Amp Limited, we specialize in structural assessment and reinforcement design for co-location towers across Nigeria and Europe. Our engineering team provides detailed analysis, optimized equipment layout recommendations, and tailored strengthening solutions to help tower owners safely accommodate multiple tenants without compromising structural integrity. If you’re planning a co-location upgrade or need a professional structural review of your tower, contact Wes Amp Limited today—we ensure your infrastructure remains safe, compliant, and ready for future expansion.