Monday, 10 June 2013

The Different Forms Of Building Defects

By Craig Nisbett


Generally, satisfactory buildings are those that are located where they are needed, fit well into the environment where they are situated and are able to offer enough space and facilities. Such structures are also protected from extreme weather and other external conditions that are not desirable. Such requirements cannot be met over short periods of time and may need to be worked on over some time, with certifications needed before approval. There are many building defects that affect structures.

Some buildings are located in moist places and are thus bound to be affected by fungus stains and other harmful growths. Fungal stains tend to be favored by environments with high humidity and which lack proper ventilation. Examples of harmful growths are creeping plants and ivy plants. They are able to grow on gutters, roofs and walls. What makes such growths to thrive is the penetration of dirt in small openings in joints left by mortar as well as on walls.

The growth of seedlings is facilitated by such spaces left in joints and walls. As the plants continue to grow, there is continued penetration of roots into the holes. Consequently, there is tendency of the cracks to widen. If not put under check, such cracks may pose great danger to such buildings.

Mortar joints getting eroded is yet another defect. The main purpose of mortar joints is to even out irregularities in building blocks or stones. The causes of erosion of mortar joints are salt crystallization, scouring action of wind and dampness that comes about through water penetration. In eradicating decayed mortar, there are several techniques that can be used. It can be done forcibly by the use of mechanical discs or they can also be raked manually using a knife.

Depending on the type of paint and the conditions walls are exposed to, painted surfaces are bound to peel off. Peeling is mainly associated with plastered walls and more so surfaces that are exposed to excessive rain and moisture. Structures around the sea are even at a greater risk due to the conditions around such places. The water is acidic and the surrounding is constantly windy.

Air conditioning systems are an integral part of most structures. They serve to bring about a balance in the temperatures of rooms and buildings as a whole. However, they are also a source of defects. The air that they produce is much drier and cooler. This may lead to building materials shrinking adversely. In addition, condensation may result, bringing about build-up of moulds.

Foundations are an essential component in distribution of loads all parts of the building. Structurally, they are vital when it comes to how permanent a building will be. If the foundation of a building is poor, there is no need investing in other aspects as it may end up collapsing. Problems with foundations are dependent on the geology of the ground on which the building stands. Dampness and vibrations may weaken improperly constructed foundations.

It would be difficult talking about building defects without mentioning insect and termite attacks. Timber if not treated is prone to termite attack, leaving them weak. To prevent termite and insect attacks, fumigation is necessary.




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