Case 4

Introduction

Type of Building: Commercial

Cracks are noted at the construction joint between the beam and slab as well as on the underside of the beam. Water streaks run from the joint between the slab and the beam, resulting in water stains at the sides of the beam. Efflorescence has been formed below the soffit of the beam.

In general, cracks can be broadly grouped into pre-hardening and post-hardening cracks. The crack, in this case, was identified as a post-hardening structural crack caused by structural deficiency, which is the lack of provision for movement due to temperature changes. Water-bearing facilities such as planter boxes are located above the basement car-park ceiling. Therefore, leakage from the crack is inevitable with the prolonged exposure to the moisture source.

Seepage through cracks at joints