Page 451 - Forensic Structural Engineering Handbook

13.2 MATERIAL-SPECIFIC FORENSIC ANALYSES

Stains 13.32
Color Discrimination 13.34
Construction Failures 13.35
Workmanship 13.35
Construction Tolerances 13.35
Mason Productivity 13.35
Temporary Bracing 13.35
MASONRY FAILURE INVESTIGATION 13.36
Qualifications of a Masonry Investigator 13.37
Consulting and Investigating Services 13.37
Initial Problem Statement 13.38
Site Visits 13.38
Reconnaissance Site Visit 13.39
Data Collection Site Visit 13.40
Masonry Testing 13.40
Testing Masonry In Situ 13.41
Interviews 13.44
Document Discovery 13.44
Literature Search 13.45
Research Needs 13.46
Report 13.46
REMEDIAL MEASURES 13.46
Cracks and Voids 13.46
Grout Injection 13.47
Tuck-Pointing 13.47
Coatings 13.47
Color Variation 13.48
Cleaning 13.48
Demolished or Collapsed Masonry 13.48
CASE HISTORIES 13.48
A Low-Rise Hotel 13.48
A High-Rise Hotel 13.49
REFERENCES 13.50

INTRODUCTION

This chapter addresses forensic investigation of stone, clay brick, and conventional concrete
masonry. It does not include consideration of chemical resistant, refractory, aerated concrete,
glass block masonry, or adhered veneer.
Forensic investigation of masonry structures involves questions of failure of masonry to
perform adequately. The purpose of such an investigation may be to avoid greater failure,
provide a basis for recommended remedial measures, or settle a claim by negotiation, arbi-
tration, or litigation.
Masonry failures may relate to aesthetics, engineering, or economics and may involve
any of the following:

Abrasion Cleaning
Adhesion Coatings
Anchorage Color discrimination (of masonry)
Building investment analysis Constructability