Professional Documents
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BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
Concrete is a very versatile material. It can be cast in place with or without reinforcement. It can also be precast
or prestressed to achieve the required strength. To achieve the required strength there is a need for a proper
understanding of its behavior and constituents that are making the concrete. Any type of negligence in any of its
phases like placement, design & maintenance can lead to its deterioration and finally, it will not be able to
perform its intended functions. Some of the factors that can cause the deterioration of concrete are:
1. Accidental loading
2. Chemical reactions like sulfate attacks, alkali-carbonate reactions, alkali-silica reactions, etc
3. Corrosion of steel reinforcement
4. Poor construction detailing
5. Erosion
6. Freezing and Thawing
7. Shrinkage
8. Settlement
9. Fire and weathering
3. Cracks in walls
(superstructure):
Walls are vertical load-bearing elements that
provide structural support and enclosure for a
building. Cracks in walls can occur due to a range of issues, including poor workmanship, structural movement,
settlement, temperature changes, or the use of low-quality materials. These cracks can compromise the stability
and aesthetics of the walls, impacting their load-bearing capacity and integrity.
Most of the structural problems can be avoided by proper design and planning.
4. Substandard work:
Poor workmanship during the construction process, including inadequate supervision, improper construction
techniques, lack of quality control, or negligence, can contribute to structural defects. Errors in the placement of
reinforcing bars, insufficient concrete compaction, improper curing methods, or failure to follow engineering
specifications can result in compromised structural integrity and the development of cracks.
Addressing and rectifying structural defects in buildings typically requires the involvement of qualified
professionals such as structural engineers or construction experts. They can assess the extent of the defects,
identify the underlying causes, and propose appropriate remedial measures, which may involve repair,
reinforcement, or even reconstruction, depending on the severity of the issues. Regular inspections, quality
control, and adherence to construction standards and codes can help prevent structural defects and ensure the
long-term safety and durability of buildings.
1. Defects in brickwork
2. Dampness in old structures
3. Defects in plaster works
It can be concluded that design and construction defects at the least can cause minor cracking or spalling
leading to concrete deterioration and may become a source of a major structural failure. Therefore a great deal
of attention and care is required in designing, detailing, and constructing concrete structures.
Defects in Brickwork
Brickwork defects can include issues such as cracking, crumbling, or displacement of bricks. These defects can
occur due to factors like inadequate mortar mix, poor workmanship, insufficient curing, or improper alignment of
bricks. Brickwork defects can compromise the appearance and weatherproofing of walls, affecting their durability
and thermal performance.
Regular maintenance:
Conducting routine inspections and maintenance can help identify non-structural defects at an early stage.
Prompt repairs and maintenance, such as sealing cracks in brickwork, addressing plumbing leaks, or improving
drainage systems, can prevent the escalation of defects and minimize their impact.
Remedial works:
When non-structural defects are already present, remedial actions may be necessary. These can include
patching or re-plastering damaged areas, applying waterproofing treatments, or implementing improved
ventilation systems to address dampness issues. In some cases, it may be necessary to engage professionals,
such as plasterers or waterproofing specialists, to carry out the required repairs.
It's important to note that while non-structural defects may not pose immediate risks, they can still affect the
overall quality and value of a building. Regular maintenance, adherence to construction standards, and the use
of quality materials and workmanship can help minimize non-structural defects and ensure the longevity and
functionality of buildings.