Concrete Structural Inspections

Concrete surfaces should be visually checked regularly for spalling and corrosion due to weathering, unusual or extreme tension, erosion, cavitation, vandalism, and other damaging powers. For properties in South Florida, especially near the ocean, concrete can be very susceptible to damage.  Structural issues can be seen by splitting, exposure of reinforcement bars, wide sections of broken-out mortar, misalignment of joints, undermining and settling of the framework. Have you ever been in a parking garage and notices the rusty steel bars behind chipped concrete structures? This is a clear indication of concrete spalling. 

Rust stains noted on the concrete may suggest internal corrosion and degradation of the reinforced steel. Spillway floor slabs and upstream slope safety slabs should be tested for degradation of the base material. 

Concrete walls and structure foundations should be tested to assess if the building junctions have been designed and misaligned. This is the work of a structural engineer. 

NEED A STRUCTURAL INSPECTION? We offer different types of inspections Call us to discuss your project (954) 434-2053

Type of Concrete Structural inspections

There are three main types of inspections for reinforced concrete buildings. They are regular, systematic,  inventory, and specific inspections. 

A regular and detailed inspection is carried out more frequently to assess the condition of a property’s structure. This helps to recognize any defects that have occurred and identify any major structural modifications that may be needed, such as deformation and lack of camber. A detailed inspection can be used to determine necessary maintenance and repair techniques to correct identified deficiencies or degradation.

A systematic Inspection is a more detailed inspection usually required throughout a number of regular checks such as every 40 or 50 years depending on the city building compliance standards. 

An Inventory inspection is carried out before a building is open and gives assurance that the concrete construction is structurally stable and suitable for its planned use. It can, thus, recognize the real and potential causes of trouble at the earliest of stages.

Specific inspections are carried out when a structure has experienced unusual loads, such as in the case of earthquakes, hurricanes, or other events that could have damaged the integrity of a structure. This inspection will include the requisite details as to which action will be taken to carry out repairs, renovation, and reconstruction in the concrete framework. Inspection must be carried out by engineers with adequate technical skills and experience, or the effects of the work can lead to the collapse of buildings and to a more serious loss of life.

What else is included in a Systematic Inspection?

A detailed or systematic inspection is more rigorous, time-consuming, and comprehensive than a regular inspection. It is carried out between a certain number of regular checks and is scheduled on the basis of the value of the structure.

The auditor should thoroughly review all structural details such as structural, mechanical, environmental, reliability, material, and electrical details.

If required, advanced instruments, such as hammer sound checking or some other non-destructive measure, can be used to correctly assess the condition of the system. Specially qualified engineers who can prepare extensive repairs can carry out a thorough inspection.

What else is included in an Inventory inspection?

Inventory inspection is carried out until the structure is completed and ready for opening. This may be performed after a major remodel or new construction when the structure is ready to return to service. The findings of the inventory review shall be used as a basis for additional inspections that may be carried out in the future.

What else is included in a specific Inspection?

Specific inspections of concrete buildings shall be carried out under special circumstances after an occurrence or incident. Specific inspection is dependent on the need and is carried out when necessary. It may require further examination and structural review and the intervention of a certified structural engineer.

The findings of this kind of inspection should be adequate to allow a reasonable judgment about the safety of a concrete building’s structure as well as any next actions to be taken under consideration. Conditions for specific inspection can include, but not restricted to, the given situations:

  • When the loading structure is to be increased due to a revised or expanded loading level.
  • When the base is settled.
  • Distressed concrete buildings.
  • When an earthquake has taken place.
  • Where signs of vulnerabilities have been found through regular or thorough examination or some other observations.
  • When subsidence occurs in mineral or coal mining fields.
  • In the case of extraordinary incidents such as flooding, hurricanes, explosions, injuries, etc.

There is no doubt structural concrete inspections are essential for everyone’s safety.

NEED A STRUCTURAL INSPECTION? We offer different types of inspections

Call us to discuss your project (954) 434-2053