Why do buildings crack?
Series/doc. No
Digest
Digest 361
Year
1991
Abstract
Examines the causes of cracking in buildings and shows, with descriptions and illustrations, the visible results of a wide range of problems. The Digest is a key to other, more specialised, BRE Digests and other publications and does not contain a complete solution to every cracking problem. It aims to broaden the understanding of the factors responsible and increase the likelihood of correct diagnosis and repair. Avoidance of some of the pitfalls will minimise future trouble in new buildings and lead to better design and workmanship.
History
Replaces - BRE Digest 75.
Subject(s)
Special subject areas
Building failures
Supplement
Core. To subscribe to The Construction Information Service please telephone Customer Care on +44 1344 328300
Publisher History
Formerly known as the Building Research Establishment, BRE is wholly owned by the BRE Trust. Their activities include research, consultancy, training and certification. They publish a range of reports, information papers, guides, digests, and case studies covering all aspects of construction.
Table Of Contents
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Extent of movement
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2
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The effect of movements - how do cracks occur
|
2
|
|
Diagnosis
|
3
|
|
Significance of cracking
|
3
|
|
Illustrated examples
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4
|
|
Temperatures changes
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4
|
|
Initial drying out of moisture and wetting and drying
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4
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|
Loss of volatiles
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5
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|
Freezing and thawing of absorbed water
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5
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Sub-surface crystallisation of soluble salts
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6
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|
Sulphate attack
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6
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|
Corrosion or oxidisation of steel
|
7
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Moisture expansion of fired clay products
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7
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Carbonation
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8
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Alkali silica reaction
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8
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Hydration of oxides and unstable clinker aggregates
|
8
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Imposed load effects
|
9
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|
Foundation movement
|
9
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|
Vibration
|
10
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