Classification of Concrete Cracks
There are several ways to categorise concrete cracks. Putting them into two categories—structural and non-structural—is one main method. The building’s structural integrity is impacted by structural cracking. It is especially concerning when support beams, columns, and load-bearing areas exhibit cracking. Some cracks in structural concrete allow the interior reinforcing steel to corrode, which further weakens the structure.
Contrarily, non-structural cracks do not compromise the integrity of the building, though they might need to be fixed for aesthetic purposes if there is a water leak or in order to take preventative measures to stop the cracks from getting worse over time and eventually becoming structural.
Another factor to examine is the cracks’ width, length, and depth. If hairline cracks are located at the right place, they usually pose no trouble. However, if they occur frequently, it may be a sign of an underlying stress problem that need attention. Cracks that are greater than 0.015 inches or more should, in general, be looked into. The probability of losing aggregate interlock increases with width. However, cracks down to 0.005 inches can be repaired.
Why might these cracks be taking place?
As we’ve already discussed, a property under some kind of stress is more likely to develop cracks than not. To find the real reasons for the cracks, we need to check one of the following: –
- Damp damage.
- Interior wood that is crucial to the construction of the property that has deteriorated or been crushed.
- Tree roots.
- An inadequate foundation issue.
- Changes in temperature.
- Settlement issue.
Severity of the cracks
By examining the crack’s width, it is mostly possible to identify a crack and determine its severity. A crack will typically be divided into 5 groups, each of which will require different methods to tackle it.
- An insignificant crack – This kind of crack will be hairline in appearance and less than a millimetre wide. Although they don’t look nice, but they are not too bad and can usually be fixed by just do some decoration on it.
- A tiny crack – This presence of this crack is usually due to structural movement throughout the time. This crack will range in width from 1 to 5 mm, and it is frequently repaired by sealing any gaps and then redesigning the interior.
- A slight crack – A moderate crack is one that requires building work if it is between 5 and 15 millimetres in length. These kinds of cracks are more likely to have a more complicated cause, and they are also more likely to damage a larger area.
- A large crack – These will require carrying our considerable structural repair work and could be up to 35mm wide. Typically necessitates the replacement of the affected building components. In many cases, a large crack will be surrounded by smaller cracks.
- An extremely large crack – If the crack measures more than 25 millimetres, it falls under this category, which denotes that the property has suffered serious structural damage and will require extensive repair work. This could involve structural underpinning to aid with any instability as well as partial or complete rebuilding.
Key Takeaways
In order to determine the extent of the damage, building owners who see cracks are urged to get in touch with a structural expert. They can assist in determining the significance of the problem. It’s critical to hire experts with problem-solving experience as soon as a problem is discovered. The correct solution to a problem requires a good understanding of the cause of that problem.
For a hassle-free professional service to diagnose and repair building cracks, get in touch with us.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more information. Our team will be happy and glad to assist you.
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