Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
spalling of the surface at any time,
depending on exposure. The standard
was changed during the 1970s to
prevent the use of calcium chloride in
steel reinforced concrete.
Deterioration of this kind can
usually be repaired, though some
form of redecoration of the repaired
surface will be necessary to disguise
the repair. This type of repair is
probably best undertaken in
conjunction with upgrading the
thermal insulation by means, for
example, of an insulating render coat.
Work on site
Inspection
When checking the external walls for signs
of rusting, the incidence of aggregate
impurities causing rust-like streaking should
not be forgotten.
In no-fines construction the steel corbels
set into the external walls to carry the first
floor joists should be examined where rain
penetration has occurred through the wall.
Otherwise, the problems to look for are:
◊
rain penetration
◊
cracking, bulging or spalling of render
coats
◊
inadequate cover to reinforcement
◊
inadequate thermal insulation
◊
inappropriate painting of external
surfaces
◊
carbonation in dense concrete eaves
beams
