The basic function of a building is to provide structurally sound and environmentally controlled spaces, protect occupants and contents. If this basic function is not achieved, it is because some aspect of the building has failed. The source of deficiencies can include inadequate design, improper execution of the work, defective materials, or simply normal and expected ageing perhaps coupled with lack of maintenance
Structural failures can occur from a range of different sources. The type of failure is associated with the nature, environment and application of the structure. Some of the reasons are
Weak Structures: The structure is not strong enough to withstand the load which is subjected to it. This is usually due to inappropriate geometric design or material choice.
Structural Deterioration: The structure deteriorates due to corrosion, fatigue, wear or creep. Fatigue failures begin when cracks form at regions of high stress. These cracks grow when subject to cyclic loading, resulting in sudden failure.
Manufacturing Errors:This includes using the wrong materials or not following the manufacturing procedures or standards. It can also result from poor workmanship or components.
Defective Material: The materials not up to the standards, resulting in a lower load bearing capacity than designed may cause severe structural failure.
Improper Environmental Considerations: Engineers or contractors or some of the clients may neglect important features for certain natural environmental conditions lead to distress.
Improper Operational Conditions: The structure is not used for its intended purpose may lead to structural failure.
We have to get rid of those problems at the earliest before it worsens. Structural Rehabilitation and repair is implied restoring the structure to its original condition
This refers to the repairs of structural members such as roof, foundation, floor slabs, exterior walls and support columns. The first task when a structure shows a sign of cracking or spalling or any other sign is to determine whether the damage is structural or non-structural. It is better to appoint a specialist to monitor the situation before any works start. This monitoring can take a while, but the right diagnosis is always worth waiting for. The repairs and rehabilitation of structures includes inspection method, assessment, monitoring, and maintenance of structures, testing, analysis and general repairs.
The success of repair activity depends upon the identification of root cause of deterioration. If this is properly identified, satisfactory repairs can be done for the improvement of strength and durability and life of concrete structures.
