Case 3
Navigation
- Introduction
- Causes of Defects
- Good Practices
- Standards
- Maintenance and Diagnostics
- Remedial
- Similar Cases
- References
Causes of Defects
There are several factors attributable to the cause of the defect. These can be the sole factor or a combination of factors. The probable factors are:
- Differential structural movement; such as the joint between the column and wall
- Differential settlement of foundation;
- Structural deficiency;
- Drying shrinkage of cementitious materials;
- Volumetric changes;
- Direct stress;
- Flexural stress;
- Thermal shock caused by sudden change in temperature
- Differential movements due to a change in moisture and/or temperature
During the curing process, the concrete undergoes a degree of shrinkage which should be accounted for. This is due to the evaporation of water within the cementitious material. The reduction in water results in shrinkage which results in the cracking of the concrete.
The figure below shows a typical detail of a wet area.
