SUMMARY PAPER
ON STRUCTURAL DEFECTS
Submitted by: Talara, Jeter Jan A.
Submitted to: Engr. Leo Nhel Abao
Structural defects is one of the most common problems engineers face when it comes
to structures. These defects poses significant challenges to the functionality and integrity of
the building systems. The paper provides an overview of structural defects, especially
definitions and how to identify them.
The paper defines what defects are, it is the deterioration of the building features and
members to undesired conditions where the quality and functions of the building fails to
serve its purpose. The most common building defects are also discussed in the paper. These
defects include: Wall cracks where obvious cracks in walls appear, Peeling Paint probably
caused by aging or improper application, Dampness which can result into unhealthy living
conditions, Timber decay which may also be caused by aging or an Insect or Termite attack,
Fungi and Small plant attack due to improper building maintenance, Sagging and deformation
which poses a threat to the safety of the building occupants, Honeycombing, Erosion of
mortar joint, Defective plaster rendering, Roof defect, Unstable foundation, and lastly, Leaning
walls, all of which poses a threat to the structural integrity of the building.
Building defects were categorized into two main classifications namely, structural
defects and non-structural defects. This classifications are vital in understanding and
addressing the specific issues that may arise within a building. In general, structural defects
are the problems that relates to the primary structural framing system or the structural
elements composing the building. Examples of structural defects are; Failure to carry or
transfer imposed loads, which may lead to a partial or total collapse of the building structure.
Structural defects may be caused by the age of the structure or due to a poor and defective
design, faulty workmanship, defective materials or a combination of these. Nevertheless,
structural defects can cause significant damage if left unaddressed.
Non-structural defects on the other hand are issues that does not affect directly affect
the structural integrity of the structure. However, this defects may still be harmful in terms
of functionality and the living conditions of the building occupants. These defects may cause
inconvenience and decrease the value of the building.
A lot of these defects are likely caused by design and detailing errors. A deviation from
the plans and specifications during the construction process can lead to serious issues in the
long run. The file exaggerates the causes of these errors. The accuracy of drawings and the
number of design revisions play a big role in these errors. The more revisions made, the
higher chance of misinterpretation and miscalculation may occur.
The types of design errors are also discussed. Number one design error is the
inadequate structural design which causes the concrete to be exposed to greater stress than
it can handle. Some of the symptoms that can be observed are spalling of concrete due to
high compressive strength, and cracking of concrete due to torsion and shear stress. This can
be prevented by thorough review of the design calculations.
Poor design detailing is another type of design error. This includes; abrupt changes
in the section design, insufficient reinforcement at corner openings, incompatibility of
materials, etc. Poor design details can cause localized concentration of high stresses in
structural members. Common observation when there is poor design detailing is the
cracking of concrete and structural failure. This can also be prevented by a thorough review
of all the design calculations. Included in the paper are pictures which shows the different
defects with various causes.
In conclusion, structural defects are caused by multiple reasons such as design errors
and poor detailing. These defects poses a threat to the integrity of the structure which can
cause significant damage and unhealthy living conditions to the occupants if it is not
addressed immediately and properly.