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Assessment Of Existing Structures
Evaluation of an existing structure is accomplished by applying engineering principles with experience.
CMS has over 50 years experience in evaluating in-situ structural conditions. Visual observations are
initially made, span and load conditions determined, and evaluation of available strengths calculated.
Available strengths are compared to the applicable service loads, as dictated by applicable building
codes, service conditions, or deflection limits. Testing may be required to determine strengths of the in-
situ structural materials. Testing may consist of destructive testing, ultra sound, x-ray, or chemical
analysis. Some field conditions may require selective demolition to observe precise field conditions.
Structures are subject to
environmental conditions such as
moisture, temperature, insect and
chemical attack. Non-treated wood is
extremely susceptible to deleterious
moisture conditions which can
promote rot and change internal
moisture content of the wood, thus
affecting strength.
Concrete exposed to the environment
is susceptible to reinforcement
oxidation. This susceptibility to rust is
dictated by moisture and the chloride
content in the concrete. Older
structures are particularly susceptible
due to the fact that some of the
admixture accelerators contained
high chloride content. De-icing
salts may also subject concrete to
accelerated deterioration.
Corrosion of the reinforcement
steel in concrete causes the metal
to expand and spall the adjacent
concrete, losing bond and strength.
Structural steel is also susceptible
to environmental conditions from
moisture and other corrosive
agents. Not only will steel rust, it may
also de-laminate under extreme,
prolonged deleterious conditions.
While galvanization prolongs the
service life of structural steel, it
remains a sacrificial surface that will
break down over time.
In addition, all structures are
susceptible to loads beyond their
available strength. Bearing, shear, and
bending failures present a hazard to
safe occupancy, and when discovered,
demand immediate shoring,
reinforcement and remediation.