2.3 STRUCTURAL DAMAGE Impairments to the integrity of the building structure can be placed in one of four main groups. The boundaries of these groups are by no means clear-cut, and there will often be overlapping, The groups are: (a) Structural Cracking and Movement....
2.2.2 Tests In addition to the visual examination, the standard inspection should also include the carrying out of Tests. When conducting a standard inspection, the following physical actions should be undertaken by the Consultant: opening and shutting of doors,...
2.2.1 The visual examination The inspection should, in general, be confined to a visual examination of surface work.
2.4.3 Floor structure 2.4.3.1 Reinforced concrete construction Cracks, variable in direction and depth Often cracks will form in reinforced concrete including slab-on-ground construction, suspended slab floors, stair flights, landings and balconies or the like....
2.4.2 Wall structure 2.4.2.1 Masonry - foundation related cracking Diagonal cracks Most commonly occurring at the corners of buildings, the cracking will tend to be wider at the top of a wall, while narrowing down to the bottom. However, in straight...
2.4.1 Roof structure 2.4.1.1 Concrete roof slabs Cracks, variable in direction and depth Cracking will commonly result from one or more of the following causes: shrinkage during setting; inadequate support; thermal movement; foundation movement; and corrosion of steel...
2.5.2 Wall structure 2.5.2.1 Framed and masonry construction (a) Vertical bowing and horizontal bending or even collapse of walls Deformation is caused by the wall not resisting vertical pressures from foundations or upper floors and roofs, and...
2.5.1 Roof structure 2.5.1.1 Roofframing and roofing (a) Distortion/lifting/damage Movement of the roof is commonly caused by the roof not adequately resisting wind uplift forces. Often the roofing is not adequately secured to the roof framing or the roof...
2.5.3.1 Suspended concrete slabs (a) Excessive deflection A reinforced suspended concrete floor may deflect producing side-effects such as failing to continue to provide support for walls built on them. In such cases a horizontal crack may often be found at...
The recent spate of severe storms in Brisbane drives home the importance of keeping a home well sealed and dry. Moisture in the form of leaks and water ingress and more seriously, flooding will cause mould, decay and damage to a property. Coupled with warm...
