of Concrete Structures
before Rehabilitation
Reported by ACI Committee 364
ACI 364.1R-19
First Printing
April 2019
ISBN: 978-1-64195-058-9
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Collection of Concrete Codes, Specifications, and Practices.
Consulting Members
Robert V. Gevecker Emory L. Kemp Dela Tharmabala Alexander M. Vaysburd
Stephen A. Johanson Weilan Song Robert Tracy William F. Wescott
This guide presents general procedures for assessment of concrete 3.3—Preliminary assessment, p. 4
structures before rehabilitation. Among the subjects covered are 3.4—Detailed assessment, p. 4
preliminary assessment, detailed assessment, review of documenta-
tion, field observation and condition survey, sampling and material CHAPTER 4—DOCUMENT REVIEW, p. 4
testing, evaluation, and final report. Evaluation to identify seismic
4.1—Introduction, p. 4
or building code deficiencies is beyond the scope of this guide.
4.2—Design information, p. 5
Keywords: assessment; condition survey; deterioration; distress; investiga- 4.3—Materials information, p. 5
tion; rehabilitation; sampling; testing. 4.4—Construction information, p. 5
4.5—Service history, p. 6
CONTENTS 4.6—Project documents, p. 6
1
2 GUIDE FOR ASSESSMENT OF CONCRETE STRUCTURES BEFORE REHABILITATION (ACI 364.1R-19)
tion will dictate the nature and quantity of information that Historic concrete structural systems were often developed
should be reviewed. In some cases, documentation may not in a competitive commercial atmosphere. Therefore, there
be available and a detailed assessment (possibly including were many proprietary reinforcement and forming systems,
nondestructive testing, material sampling, and laboratory including many reinforcing bar deformation patterns that
material studies) may be necessary. were protected by patents and illustrated in catalogs and by
trade organizations. Not only were design calculations often
4.2—Design information presented in tabular form, but the strength of the system was
4.2.1 Documents and other sources that may contain validated by load tests, and the results of tests included in
useful information include: the catalogs. Early textbooks and handbooks, which also
a) Construction documents, including drawings, specifica- include much of this information, are especially helpful.
tions, addenda, submittals, change orders, calculations, and Newspaper clippings and old photographs that describe or
other project correspondence illustrate the structural system, construction, or both, of a
b) Shop drawings for formwork, reinforcement, and concrete structure may be helpful during the process of planning for
placement the preservation of historic structures. If a historic structures
c) Quality control records and testing report has been developed for the project structure, it may
d) As-built drawings, photographs, job field records, test contain additional helpful information about the structural
data, and correspondence system and construction.
e) Construction documents for previous modifications or
alterations 4.3—Materials information
f) Manufacturer’s technical information, descriptions of Information on original construction and repair and main-
construction materials, patents, and test data tenance materials may be available, especially for more
g) Textbooks available at the time of design recently constructed structures, from the following sources:
h) Documentation of prior repairs and maintenance, prior (a) Original construction and repair project specifications
studies, or other history and drawings
i) Design and building codes in effect at the time of design (b) Submittals for concrete mixtures, components, and
and construction of the structure and any modifications or quality control test results
alterations (c) Submittals for reinforcing and prestressing steel
j) Interviews with owner, building manager, and building (d) Ready mixed concrete supplier historical data on specific
engineer mixtures used
k) Other potential sources for older structures, such as (e) Manufacturers’ technical information, installation
historic handbooks, historic catalogs, standards, newspaper instructions, and description of construction materials at the
clippings, photographs, and historic structures reports time of original construction
Information regarding original construction or alterations (f) Manufacturers’ technical information, installation
may be obtained from the owner, the architect or engineer instructions, and description of repair materials and mainte-
of record, local building departments or regulatory agencies nance materials used on the structure
for the governmental entity in which the structure is located,
the general contractor, subcontractors, manufacturers, fabri- 4.4—Construction information
cators, and suppliers. Local building department records Construction documents and other records from original
may be valuable in locating construction documents from construction may be helpful in understanding the construc-
an alteration and other related records, such as inspection tion methods, materials, basis of design, and difficulties
reports or violation notices. Although gathering all the infor- encountered during construction; however, it is important to
mation listed may not be required for typical assessment and understand that the as-built conditions may vary from those
rehabilitation projects, it could be required for more complex shown in original drawings and specifications. This infor-
and unusual projects. mation is valuable in the assessment process. The following
4.2.2 Historic structures—Buildings may be designated as records may be available:
historic structures at several jurisdictional levels including a) Correspondence, including requests for information and
federal, state, or local, with each jurisdictional entity estab- change orders, between members of the construction team,
lishing its own standards and requirements for reviews design team, and owner or developer
associated with preservation and rehabilitation. Often, the b) Concrete batch tickets and truck tickets
governing standards have varying requirements and specific c) Results of tests on fresh and hardened concrete
definitions that need to be reviewed and considered for each d) Quality control data and field inspection reports by a
structure. testing agency or others
When working on older structures, it is important to relate e) Drawings and specifications kept on the job, including
the structural system used in the project to the design and modifications and change orders
construction practices existing at the time of construction. f) Diaries or journals kept by the construction team,
Fortunately, for many older structural designs, there is a contractor daily field reports, or construction observation
substantial amount of available information about design reports from owner’s representative
and construction practice in the era being considered. g) Job progress photographs
Fig. 5.4b—Area of concrete delamination and spalling Fig. 5.4.1b—An example of severe cracking and spalling in
(photo courtesy of Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.). a concrete beam (photo courtesy of Concrete Science, Inc.).
(g) Pedestrian or vehicular and equipment loading (including mation on nondestructive testing can be found in Chapter 6
impact of rolling heavy vehicles) of this guide and ACI 228.2R.
(h) Impulse/impact loads (for example, effects of traveling The condition survey should document the approximate
cranes) extent and severity of distress or deterioration, especially
(i) Time-related loss of prestressing steel tension that which could adversely affect the strength, durability, or
5.3.2.3 Environmental conditions—Environmental condi- service life of the structure (Fig. 5.4a). Previously repaired
tions affect the long-term performance of the structure and or modified portions of the structure and their condition
can impact the nature of the rehabilitation program, particu- should also be included in the condition survey. The condi-
larly the need for protective systems. Environmental condi- tion survey documentation should be supplemented with
tions such as exposure or shelter from water, salt, wind, and appropriate sketches, photographs, and videos. Condi-
sunlight should be noted (Fig. 5.3.2.3). tions listed as follows should be identified, measured, and
recorded using the guidelines in ASCE/SEI 11, ACI 201.1R,
5.4—Condition survey and visual inspection and The Concrete Society (1989, 1992, 2001):
The condition survey should be performed by, or under a) Crack width, depth, length, location, and type. Cracks
the direction of, a licensed design professional with experi- should be examined to determine if they are likely the result
ence in the evaluation of concrete structures. The condition of structural behavior, concrete shrinkage, thermal changes,
survey should include visual observations combined with material behavior, combination of these, or are of unknown
various nondestructive testing such as sounding (ASTM origin. Cracks occurring as a result of structural behavior can
D4580/D4580M) and exploratory openings. Additional be identified as flexure, shear, torsion, or direct tension. Note
information on condition surveys and visual inspection can crack patterns and determine whether the crack is actively
be found in ASCE/SEI 11 and ACI 201.1R. Additional infor-
moving or dormant. Refer to ACI 224R, 224.1R, and 224.2R of the beam in unspalled regions, as well as the location of
for further information the beam within the structure.
b) Surface defects such as scaling, popouts, and 5.4.2 Visible deviations and deformations—Measure
honeycombing and record visible deviations of components or members
c) Spalling or delamination due to distress or corrosion of from the intended position and size. Appraisals of devia-
embedded reinforcing steel (Fig. 5.4b) tions are often guided by comparisons with neighboring
d) Corrosion of reinforcement, including the extent and or adjacent structures, or components or members thereof.
amount of reduced cross section For example, unintended deviations from the vertical or
e) Delamination or debonding (including coatings, repairs, horizontal (excluding roof members that may be sloped for
and overlays) (ICRI 210.3R) drainage) plane more than approximately L/240 are likely
f) Suspected concrete material problems, such as alkali- to be noticed, where L represents the span length. For hori-
aggregate reaction or scaling zontal components, a slope exceeding L/50 (1/4 in./ft [20
g) Evidence of physical or chemical deterioration due to mm/m]) will generally be noticeable, as will a deflection of
chemical or environmental attack, including exposure to more than approximately L/240. Whenever visible deforma-
potential chemical or environmental attack (for example, use tions are noticeable on the structure, further monitoring and
of deicing salts on the structure or exposure to contaminated more detailed evaluation might be appropriate. For construc-
soils) tion tolerances, refer to ACI 117.
h) Surface erosion of concrete matrix 5.4.3 Foundation movement—The field investigation of
i) Water problems, such as leakage and areas of poor drainage foundation movement should include floor level surveys,
or ponding and documentation of the separations of structural members
j) Staining, efflorescence, leaching, or other evidence of and cracks that result from differential settlement or heave.
water intrusion The installation of displacement monitoring devices and
k) Exposed or erupted tendons in post-tensioned or periodic floor level surveys may be necessary to document
prestressed concrete members ongoing movement. The existing foundation construction
l) Loose, corroded, or otherwise defective connectors for drawings should be reviewed for the type of foundations,
precast concrete elements, or ties to architectural elements types of soils, design water table, surrounding terrain, site
or cladding drainage, and adjacent structures.
m) Permanent or transient deformations, out-of-plumb The field investigation should note changes in the water
columns, uneven or deflected slabs, and other misalignments table, any signs of erosion and scour, and the addition of
n) Signs of foundation settlement or heave and related distress structures or other construction, such as underground storm
5.4.1 Visible deterioration—It is generally difficult to clas- sewers, in the vicinity. If signs of differential settlement are
sify and quantify the visible deterioration because it depends present, it may be necessary to carry out a more detailed
on proximity to area, subjective criteria, and experience. For geotechnical assessment to fully consider the impact of the
example, concrete delaminations on a facade are difficult to observed conditions.
detect unless viewed up-close, from several angles, or both
(Fig. 5.4.1a). In addition, deterioration that is acceptable in one 5.5—Exploratory openings
circumstance may not be acceptable in another. For example, Exploratory openings may be necessary to verify as-built
spalls may be objectionable aesthetically, but they may have conditions, reveal hidden conditions, obtain insight to
no significant impact on structural load-carrying capacity; causes of deterioration, and provide information regarding
thus, their ratings may vary based on the criteria used for constructability of repair work (Fig. 5.5). For example, an
judgement. Therefore, the licensed design professional should exploratory opening can be performed to verify the size and
define terms such as severe, moderate, and minor deteriora- location of a concealed void or region of honeycombing
tion to establish a consistent representation and understanding identified through nondestructive testing methods. Typically,
of the significance of the damage irrespective of the individual exploratory openings into a structure are generally small and
conducting the evaluation (Fig. 5.4.1b). should be done in such a way to minimize their impact on
Following are examples of survey descriptions that may structural performance. If a large exploratory opening or
be used: removal and replacement of portions of a structure is to be
(a) Unsafe or potentially hazardous performed, it could necessitate the installation of temporary
(b) Severe distress or deterioration shoring and repair.
(c) Moderate distress or deterioration Laboratory studies of concrete cores or samples removed
(d) Minor distress or deterioration from the structure often assist in the evaluation of concrete.
(e) Acceptable or good condition Determine the locations for concrete samples or concrete
Sketches, photographs, videos, measurements, and brief core removal during the field investigation to represent the
descriptions should supplement the condition survey. Note various conditions observed over the structure.
the extent and severity of deteriorated areas with respect to
the entire structure being surveyed. For example, if spalling 5.6—Unsafe or potentially hazardous conditions
of a concrete beam is observed, it is important to note the When conditions that appear to be unsafe or potentially
location, size, and depth of the spall. Also, note the condition hazardous are discovered during the field investigation,
Splitting tensile strength of cores (ASTM C496/ Determine approximate tensile strength
Tensile strength —
C496M) of concrete
Sampling and testing of sawed beams (ASTM Break-off test (Carino and Malhotra Limitations posed by aggregate size and
Flexural strength
C42/C42M) 2004) nonhomogeneity
Density Specific gravity of samples (ASTM C642) — Special technique requiring calibration curve
and samples should be protected from damage during 6.3—Testing and evaluation
recovery. If samples are being removed from an architec- Evaluation of existing concrete should be based on existing
tural or historic structure, sampling should be performed conditions, strength, serviceability, and properties of the
in less visible location and a suitable repair procedure used concrete as derived from field tests or laboratory studies on
to restore the structure’s appearance satisfactorily after samples removed from the concrete structure (ACI 228.1R;
sampling. In the absence of testing, some properties may ACI 214R; ACI 437R; NRMCA 1999; The Concrete Society
be based on the approximate construction date, historical 1989) (Fig. 6.3). Guidance on the type, frequency, and loca-
values for concrete compressive strength and yield strength tion of the testing is discussed in ACI 437R, ICRI 210.4,
of reinforcing steel are presented in ASCE/SEI 41 and ACI and ASCE/SEI 11. Data collection and subsequent evalua-
562. These values are typically conservative and can be used tion should provide an understanding of the ability of the
for analysis in place of testing. structure to sustain the loads and environmental conditions
to which it is subjected (Mather 1985; Hookham 1994).
6.3.1 Test procedures for concrete—Table 6.2 shows a
summary of typical test methods used to test concrete prop-
erties. Before proceeding with a given test method, its appli-
cability, availability of equipment and qualified personnel,
accuracy, and possible outcomes should be evaluated to
verify whether it is appropriate for the assessment.
6.3.2 Test procedures for steel reinforcement—The test
methods, as tabulated in Table 6.3.2, should be considered
in assessing the embedded steel reinforcement. As methods
used to define properties require destructive removal of
the cover concrete and sampling of in-place reinforcement
for laboratory testing, the need for this testing should be
confirmed based on availability of documentation and struc-
tural condition. Experienced personnel should be used for
conducting the sampling and the laboratory testing.
6.4—Test methods
In Tables 6.2 and 6.3.2, material properties of interest for
Fig. 6.3—Use of ground-penetrating radar, a nondestruc- a concrete structure are presented together with test methods
tive test procedure, to locate existing reinforcement bars and (primary and secondary), with an explanation of their require-
embedded members within a concrete slab (photo courtesy ments, advantages, and limitations (Thornton and Alexander
of Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.). 1987; Mathey and Clifton 1988; Carino and Malhotra 2004;
Table 6.3.2—Test methods to determine structural properties and determine condition of reinforcing steel
(partially adopted from ACI 228.2R and ASCE/SEI 11)
Possible test method
Property/condition Primary Secondary Comment
Expose reinforcement for measurement,
X-ray and γ-ray Steel location and distribution; concrete cover; bar
Reinforcement location pachometer; ground-penetrating radar (GPR)
radiography size estimation
(ASTM D4748, D6432)
Observe and measure reduction in steel;
Expose reinforcement and measure observe corrosion of embedded post-tensioning
Reinforcement cross- Intrusive probing;
diameter; using calipers, ultrasonic thickness components; verify location and extent of
sectional area reduction radiography
gauge (requires direct contact with steel) deterioration; provide more certainty in structural
capacity calculations
Identification and mapping of active reinforcement
Corrosion potentials Half-cell potential (ASTM C876) —
corrosion
Electrochemical Corrosion rate of embedded steel; rate influenced
Corrosion rate Linear polarization (SHRP S-324 and S-330)
impedance by environmental conditions
Tension testing of metallic materials (ASTM
Tensile testing — Tension testing of removed samples
A370 and ASTM E8/E8M)
Needed for determining weldability or to confirm
Chemical analysis Laboratory test on sample (ASTM A751) —
bar grade
Remaining coating thickness on exposed
Protective coating thickness surfaces (ASTM E376; ASTM D7091; — Requires calibrated test equipment
ASTM G14; ASTM G20)
Note: Other mechanical property testing of metal components, such as hardness and impact, are described in ASTM A370 and ASTM E8/E8M.
ACI 228.2R; ASCE/SEI 11). In general, it is preferred that little or no distress or deterioration may warrant few, if any,
nondestructive tests be used to measure material proper- core samples, especially where design documents are avail-
ties where possible and to minimize sampling and repair able, and no change of usage is planned for the structure.
needs (Fig. 6.3). Based on findings of the field investigation, Alternatively, a structure exhibiting a wide range of distress
sampling and laboratory studies can also be used to determine or deterioration in different components and areas may
the causes of existing distress or deterioration, for example, warrant numerous samples to adequately assess the targeted
with laboratory petrographic analysis (ASTM C856). property and its degree of variation.
Where supplemental information is needed regarding Selection of test method(s) to diagnose the nature and
in-place structural behavior or extent of distress, a field extent of distress/deterioration should consider the likely
load test (ACI 318; ACI 437.1R; ACI 437.2) involving cause(s) or source(s) (for example, corrosion of reinforcing,
components or the full-scale structure may be carried out. alkali-aggregate reaction), the accessibility, and the struc-
However, the feasibility of such tests is often limited by the ture configuration/geometry, among other factors. Struc-
magnitude of the structure and the difficulty of delivering tural distress caused by prior loading events (for example,
accurate test loading to assess overall performance of the seismic, wind, gravity overload) may require more focused
structure. The controlling failure mechanism may also affect and rigorous testing/assessment to determine appropriate
the viability of load testing. For example, if the member is corrective action, including rehabilitation and repair.
flexure-controlled, it is easier to test than a shear-controlled Concrete is not an isotropic material and properties may
member that has an inherently brittle failure mechanism vary depending on the location or direction along which
(ACI 437R). samples are taken. Particular attention should be given to
vertical concrete components or members, such as columns,
6.5—Sampling techniques walls, and deep beams, because concrete properties can
6.5.1 Concrete—Concrete samples can be retrieved in the vary due to the placement operations, owing for instance
field and tested in the laboratory to determine strength as of nonuniform compaction, or the occurrence of significant
well as many other physical and chemical properties. The segregation or bleeding.
samples should be obtained, handled, identified (labeled), 6.5.1.1 Core sampling—The procedures for properly
and stored properly in accordance with ASTM standards to removing concrete samples by core drilling are given in
prevent contamination (Stowe and Thornton 1984). ASTM C42/C42M and Sezen et al. (2011). The number,
Guidance on developing an appropriate sampling plan size, and location of core samples should be selected such
is provided by ASTM C823/C823M. Samples are usually that required laboratory tests can be performed satisfacto-
taken to obtain overall statistical information about the prop- rily. It is recommended that separate core samples be used
erties of concrete in the structure, or to characterize some for each different test to avoid cross-contamination of test
unusual or extreme conditions in specific components (for results. The average concrete strength from core specimens
example, slabs, beams). Initially, sample locations should should only be used to verify the in-place concrete strength.
be randomly distributed throughout the structure. The type, The measured average concrete strength should not be used
size, and number of samples (for example, cores) extracted in calculating the existing load-carrying capacity. Appro-
from the structure depend on the nature and condition of the priate adjustment is needed before the measured strength can
structure to be assessed, the laboratory tests to be performed, be used as the in-place compressive strength. At least three
and their extent. cores should be removed at each location in the structure
Based on the field investigation, data needed, and defi- and the strength value should be taken as the average of the
ciencies identified, a sampling and testing plan should be three cores (ACI 318; ACI 562). Refer to ACI 214.4R for
developed. Where information about a specific concrete discussions of interpreting variations in core test strengths.
property is needed and that property is believed to be consis- For determining compressive strength or static or dynamic
tent, sampling locations should be distributed randomly modulus of elasticity, the diameter of the core should be in
throughout the area of interest, and all data treated as one accordance with the applicable standard (ASTM or other).
group (ACI 562). Otherwise, the study area should be subdi- 6.5.1.2 Sampling of concrete with sawed beams—Where
vided into regions of the structure believed to be relatively appropriate, sampling by sawing beam sections in accor-
consistent, with each region sampled and analyzed sepa- dance with ASTM C42/C42M may be used as an alternative
rately. As an example, the sampling frequency and method- to drilled core sampling. Refer to ACI 214.4R and ASCE/
ology required to determine concrete compressive strength SEI 11 for additional information on variations that may be
in a simple floor on metal deck will be different from the encountered when using both cores and sawed beam samples
one needed in a moment frame, where a structural analysis to assess the actual in-place concrete strength.
may be needed to identify where samples can be extracted 6.5.1.3 Random sampling of broken concrete—Sampling
without affecting the overall safety of the structure. of broken concrete generally should not be used where a
For tests intended to measure the average value of a strength property of concrete is in question; however, such
concrete property, such as compressive strength, elastic samples can be used to assess chemical or physical deteriora-
modulus, or air content, the number of samples should be tion using petrographic or other laboratory analyses, partic-
determined in accordance with ASTM E122, ASTM C42/ ularly when a failure plane is involved. When performing
C42M, and ACI 214.4R. For example, a large structure with
tests on a broken concrete sample, effects of the damage (f) Test execution observations and results
source should be considered. (g) Data recovered, sorted by specific tests completed and
6.5.2 Steel reinforcement—Samples of reinforcement can data type (for example, strength and chloride content)
be tested to determine physical or chemical properties of the (h) Assessment of test results and extrapolation of such rela-
reinforcing steel. The sampling characteristics, selection, tive to the concrete structure as a whole
and preparation are discussed in ASTM A370. Some general (i) Recommendations for additional testing or other action
considerations related to conventional reinforcement are:
a) Specimens should be removed at locations of minimum CHAPTER 7—EVALUATION
stress in the reinforcement. Not more than one specimen
should be removed from the same cross section of a struc- 7.1—Introduction
tural component or element. Evaluation is the process of determining and judging the
b) Specimen locations should be separated by at least the structural adequacy of a structure, member, or system for
development length of the reinforcement to avoid excessive its current intended use or performance. Deficiencies are
weakening of the component. identified during this process, such as distress or deteriora-
c) For structural members, being investigated, having a span tion. Older structures may be found deficient with respect
of less than 25 ft (7.5 m) or a loaded area of less than 625 ft2 to original or current code provisions. The physical condi-
(60 m2), at least one specimen should be taken from the main tion of the structure, completeness of information gathered
longitudinal reinforcement (not stirrups or ties) (ACI 437R). in the investigation, the strength and quality of the existing
d) For longer spans or larger areas, more specimens should construction materials, and other factors will influence the
be taken from locations well distributed through the portion level of evaluation. Some concepts common to many proj-
being investigated to determine whether the same strength of ects are discussed in this chapter. These should be applied
steel was used throughout the structure. with the judgment of the licensed design professional as
e) Information from grade marks and mill marks from rein- appropriate to the specific situation.
forcing bars should be collected when possible and used as Rehabilitation programs that change the use of a structure
appropriate in guiding sample collection. may require different considerations, including the struc-
f) Newer conventional reinforcing steel typically exhibits tural and architectural impact of the proposed modifica-
low variability in material properties across a structure. tions. Effects of modifications can range from the relatively
As a result, less sampling may be needed to gain reason- obvious (for example, higher live loading requirements) to
able confidence in in-place mechanical properties. For older more subtle aspects (for example, alteration of a shadow
structures, where smooth, square, or iron-based reinforce- line on a facade as a result of a change in slab thickness).
ment was used, additional sampling may be needed. In addition to the impact on the structural requirements
g) The minimum gauge length for testing mechanical properties of the sections that are being modified, it is also neces-
should be in accordance with ASTM A370. Shorter samples sary to consider what structural or architectural changes
may still be useful. Coupons for testing may be obtained from are mandated by the governing code or regulations when
samples with a length of at least 4 in. (100 mm), which will extensive rehabilitation is being performed. When modifica-
provide some information on physical and chemical properties. tions are sufficiently extensive, it may become necessary to
Sampling of prestressed reinforcement for laboratory upgrade existing construction to satisfy current code require-
testing should be undertaken with care using appropriate ments including conformance with current accessibility or
safety procedures. When the anchorages of unbonded seismic upgrade requirements. Refer to the local jurisdic-
tendons are accessible, a visual examination can be carried tion, International Existing Building Code (IEBC 2018), and
out and lift-off tests conducted to measure the prestress force to ACI 562 for guidance.
(ACI 546R; Gupta 2003). Sampling of unbonded tendons
and wires is generally not recommended unless corrosion is 7.2—Determining causes
observed, cracking has occurred, or the structural capacity is When distress or deterioration is encountered, it is impor-
in question (PTI DC80.3/ICRI 320.6). tant to establish their causes during the evaluation process. It
is also important to consider whether the conditions are wide-
6.6—Test reporting spread or isolated. For example, where a similar cracking
The findings and results from testing performed on a pattern is observed throughout the structure, the cause may
concrete structure should be documented in a written report be related to the design or a construction technique. Where
as described in Chapter 8. The sampling and testing portion cracking is isolated to one location, the cause may be related
of the report should include the following information: to an isolated construction defect, localized deterioration,
(a) Scope of sampling and testing completed or exposure to overloading. Another example is corrosion-
(b) Lab certification information induced spalling that may occur at only a portion of the
(c) Date of testing and names/qualifications of personnel structure or be widespread throughout the structure. If the
involved identified distress or deterioration is isolated to one location,
(d) Equipment used and accuracy/calibration information consider what makes that area different than the remainder
(e) Alignment of sampling/test performed with plan of the structure. The effectiveness of an appropriate reha-
document bilitation technique is a function of whether the cause of the
8.2—Purpose, objective, and scope of assessment projected future performance of the concrete materials and
This section of the report should describe the purpose, components tested.
objective, and scope of the assessment as agreed upon with
the owner or other party who requested the assessment. The 8.7—Evaluation
report should also note any modifications made to the scope The report should summarize the significance of the
of services during the course of the assessment, significant observed condition of the various components of the struc-
assumptions, and applicable building codes and standards. The ture, as well as the results of material testing and analysis
level of assessment undertaken, from preliminary or detailed that may have been performed as part of the assessment.
assessment, including testing, should be clearly stated. The assumptions made, and methods used in the assess-
ment process, should be documented including, if appli-
8.3—Project, background, and history cable, building codes, loads, modeling approaches, and
The report should contain the project description, signifi- computer tools. If required, a brief description of rehabilita-
cant assumptions, background information, description, and tion approaches or strengthening methods considered should
history of the structure. The history should include a descrip- be included. In addition, if included in the agreed scope of
tion of structure alterations, previous repair projects, extent the detailed assessment, the various approaches and methods
of work, applicable building codes and standards, and other can incorporate sketches or drawings showing typical details,
items that are pertinent to the assessment. cost estimates, and the impact of the proposed rehabilita-
tion method(s) on the structure and its users. In situations
8.4—Documentation obtained to support where strengthening or structural rehabilitation is needed,
assessment the report should indicate the extent to which it is neces-
The results of the document review should be summarized sitated by code-mandated provisions (upgrades) along with
and supplemented by plans, photographs, copies of draw- any special conditions that exist (for example, rehabilitation
ings, and any other pertinent information as applicable. procedures for historic buildings). The assessment results
The summary should include available information on the should also identify any follow-up recommendations for the
existing structure, including its location, size, architectural structure, such as:
and structural descriptions, history, historic significance (if (a) Immediate remedial actions needed from a safety or
any), current uses(s), architectural or structural modifica- serviceability perspective
tions, and past repair and maintenance programs. A list of (b) Additional testing or analysis that could be used to
the documents reviewed or referenced, and their sources confirm or refine report conclusions
should be included. (c) Monitoring of specific components
(d) Long-term maintenance program to warrant adequate
8.5—Field observations and condition survey condition and performance
Results of the field observations and condition survey (e) Seismic retrofit, as required by code
included in the scope of the work should be presented to
include a description of the portions of the structure that are 8.8—Findings and recommendations
to be rehabilitated or altered for change of use or appear- The findings from each preceding task should be summa-
ance. As-built construction, including verification of compo- rized in this section of the report. It should include a discus-
nents, deviations, and deficiencies, should be documented sion of the current conditions of the structure (or components
as part of the scope of the assessment. Components of the of the structures identified in the scope of assessment), the
structure included in the scope of the assessment that could identified causes of deterioration and distress, the expected
not be evaluated, or could only be partially evaluated, should future performance of the structure (or components), and the
be noted in the report. feasibility of the rehabilitation under proposed programs and
Existing conditions, including deterioration or distress options. The recommendations may address the following
for investigated components, with inspection methods and topics: action plan; cost estimates; and additional consider-
equipment used, should be described with photographs, ations such as scheduling, constraints, and feasibility.
sketches, drawings, and other pertinent information prepared 8.8.1 Action plan—The recommendations should iden-
during the inspection and field survey operations. tify a course of action for the structure or components of the
structure, such as:
8.6—Sampling and material testing results (a) Regular maintenance and inspection
The locations, methods, and results of the nondestructive (b) Correct identified deficiencies (deterioration, distress, or
and destructive testing performed during the assessment, performance concerns)
as well as test results obtained from laboratory analysis, (c) Conduct additional testing, assessment, monitoring, or
should be summarized. The summary may be supplemented all three
with photographs and copies of laboratory test reports as (d) Change the use
appropriate. This section can include a description of how (e) Phase out of service
the testing results demonstrate the in-place properties of (f) Close immediately or provide suitable protection against
the concrete in terms of physical condition, strength, and failure such as shoring
The course of action that will best satisfy the owner’s ACI 228.1R-19—Report on Methods for Estimating
objectives should be considered, and an appropriate and cost- In-Place Concrete Strength
effective solution for the rehabilitation, as required, should ACI 228.2R-13—Report on Nondestructive Test Methods
be developed. The plan for the structure should address what for Evaluation of Concrete in Structures
action(s) should be taken and how it should best be accom- ACI 318-14—Building Code Requirements for Structural
plished. Where budget constraints exist, it may be prac- Concrete and Commentary
tical to assign priorities to the various rehabilitation works ACI 365.1R-17—Report on Service-Life Prediction
required and to stage the program over a certain period ACI 437R-03—Strength Evaluation of Existing Concrete
of time. Feasible alternatives to the recommended plan of Buildings
action should be identified, including estimated costs. ACI 437.1R-07—Load Tests of Concrete Structures:
8.8.2 Cost estimates—Cost estimates should address the Methods, Magnitude, Protocols, and Acceptance Criteria
recommended repair work, including options and alter- ACI 437.2-13—Code Requirements for Load Testing of
nates. The cost estimate can also cover phasing, engineering Existing Concrete Structures and Commentary
services, testing services, construction period services, ACI 546R-14—Guide to Concrete Repair
effects on owner’s operations, contingencies, and other ACI 562-16—Code Requirements for Assessment, Repair,
items. Depending on the scope of the assessment, the service and Rehabilitation of Existing Concrete Structures and
life expectancy of various alternate rehabilitation schemes Commentary
and the life-cycle performance of the entire structure may be
evaluated (ACI 365.1R). American Society of Civil Engineers
8.8.3 Scheduling—The project schedule is primarily ASCE/SEI 11-99—Guideline for Structural Condition
determined by the extent, type, and urgency of the reha- Assessment of Existing Buildings
bilitation project along with the phasing, weather, ongoing ASCE/SEI 31-03—Seismic Evaluation of Existing
operations, and other construction conditions. If the project Buildings
schedule is part of the report, it should consider the lead time ASCE/SEI 41-17—Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of
for engineering, preparing construction documents, permit- Existing Buildings
ting, contractor selection, and mobilization. Rehabilitation
projects often involve discovery of hidden or unexpected Applied Technology Council
conditions, so additional time should be considered in the ATC-20-1-15—Field Manual: Postearthquake Safety
schedule to account for possible modifications and required Evaluation of Building, Bhutan Edition
extra engineering services during the construction phase. ATC-45-04—Field Manual: Safety Evaluation of Build-
ings after Windstorms and Floods
CHAPTER 9—REFERENCES
ACI committee documents and documents published by ASTM International
other organizations are listed first by document number, full ASTM A370-18—Standard Test Methods and Definitions
title, and year of publication followed by authored docu- for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
ments listed alphabetically. ASTM A751-14—Standard Test Methods, Practices, and
Terminology for Chemical Analysis of Steel Products
American Association of State Highway and Transportation ASTM C39/C39M-18—Standard Test Method for
Officials Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens—
AASHTO T 259-2002(R2012)—Method of Test for E Learning Course
Resistance of Concrete to Chloride Ion Penetration ASTM C42/C42M-18—Standard Test Method for
Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and Sawed Beams of
American Concrete Institute Concrete
ACI 117-10(15)—Specification for Tolerances for ASTM C157/C157M-17—Standard Test Method for
Concrete Construction and Materials and Commentary Length Change of Hardened Hydraulic-Cement Mortar and
ACI 201.1R-08—Guide for Conducting a Visual Inspec- Concrete
tion of Concrete in Service ASTM C215-14—Standard Test Method for Fundamental
ACI 214R-11—Guide to Evaluation of Strength Test Transverse, Longitudinal, and Torsional Resonant Frequen-
Results of Concrete cies of Concrete Specimens
ACI 214.4R-10(16)—Guide for Obtaining Cores and ASTM C341/C341M-18—Standard Practice for Prepara-
Interpreting Compressive Strength Results tion and Conditioning of Cast, Drilled, or Sawed Specimens
ACI 224R-01(08)—Control of Cracking in Concrete of Hydraulic-Cement Mortar and Concrete Used for Length
Structures Change Measurements
ACI 224.1R-07—Causes, Evaluation, and Repair of ASTM C457/C457M-16—Standard Test Method for
Cracks in Concrete Structures Microscopical Determination of Parameters of the Air-Void
ACI 224.2R-92(04)—Cracking of Concrete Members in System in Hardened Concrete
Direct Tension
ASTM C469/C469M-14—Standard Test Method for ASTM F1869-16—Standard Test Method for Measuring
Static Modulus of Elasticity and Poisson’s Ratio of Concrete Moisture Vapor Emission Rate of Concrete Subfloor Using
in Compression Anhydrous Calcium Chloride
ASTM C496/C496M-17—Standard Test Method for ASTM F2170-18—Standard Test Method for Deter-
Splitting Tensile Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens mining Relative Humidity in Concrete Floor Slabs Using in
ASTM C597-16—Standard Test Method for Pulse situ Probes
Velocity Through Concrete ASTM F2420-05—Standard Test Method for Deter-
ASTM C642-13—Standard Test Method for Density, mining Relative Humidity on the Surface of Concrete Floor
Absorption, and Voids in Hardened Concrete Slabs Using Relative Humidity Probe Measurement and
ASTM C803/C803M-18—Standard Test Method for Insulated Hood
Penetration Resistance of Hardened Concrete ASTM F2659-10(2015)—Standard Guide for Preliminary
ASTM C805/C805M-18—Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Comparative Moisture Condition of Concrete,
Rebound Number of Hardened Concrete Gypsum Cement and other Floor Slabs and Screeds Using a
ASTM C823/C823M-12(2017)—Standard Practice Non-Destructive Electronic Moisture Meter
for Examination and Sampling of Hardened Concrete in ASTM G14-04(2018)—Standard Test Method for Impact
Constructions Resistance of Pipeline Coatings (Falling Weight Test)
ASTM C856-18—Standard Practice for Petrographic ASTM G20-10(2015)—Standard Test Method for Chem-
Examination of Hardened Concrete ical Resistance of Pipeline Coatings
ASTM C876-15—Standard Test Method for Corrosion
Potentials of Uncoated Reinforcing Steel in Concrete International Code Council
ASTM C900-15—Standard Test Method for Pullout IEBC 2018—International Existing Building Code
Strength of Hardened Concrete
ASTM C1152/C1152M-04(2012)—Standard Test Method International Concrete Repair Institute
for Acid-Soluble Chloride in Mortar and Concrete ICRI 210.3R-13—Guide for Using In-Situ Tensile Pull-
ASTM C1202-18—Standard Test Method for Electrical Off Tests to Evaluate Bond of Concrete Surface Materials
Indication of Concrete’s Ability to Resist Chloride Ion ICRI 210.4-09—Guide for Nondestructive Evaluation
Penetration Methods for Condition Assessment, Repair, and Perfor-
ASTM C1218/C1218M-17—Standard Test Method for mance Monitoring of Concrete Structures
Water-Soluble Chloride in Mortar and Concrete
ASTM C1556-11(2016)—Standard Test Method for Post-Tensioning Institute
Determining the Apparent Chloride Diffusion Coefficient of PTI DC80.3/ICRI 320.6-12—Guide for Evaluation and
Cementitious Mixtures by Bulk Diffusion Repair of Unbonded Post-Tensioned Concrete Structures
ASTM D4263-83(2018)—Standard Test Method for Indi-
cating Moisture in Concrete by the Plastic Sheet Method Strategic Highway Research Program
ASTM D4580/D4580M-12(2018)—Standard Practice SHRP C-315:1991—Handbook for the Identification of
for Measuring Delaminations in Concrete Bridge Decks by Alkali-Silica Reactivity in Highway Structures
Sounding SHRP S-324:1993—Condition Evaluation of Concrete
ASTM D4748-10(2015)—Standard Test Method for Bridges Relative to Reinforcement Corrosion. Volume 2:
Determining the Thickness of Bound Pavement Layers Method for Measuring the Corrosion Rate of Reinforcing
Using Short-Pulse Radar Steel
ASTM D6432-11—Guide for Using the Surface Ground SHRP S-327:1992—Condition Evaluation of Concrete
Penetrating Radar Method for Subsurface Investigation Bridges Relative to Reinforcement Corrosion. Volume 5:
ASTM D6938-17—Standard Test Methods for In-Place Methods for Evaluating Effectiveness of Penetrating Sealers
Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil-Aggregate by SHRP S-328:1992—Condition Evaluation of Concrete
Nuclear Methods (Shallow Depth) Bridges Relative to Reinforcement Corrosion. Volume 6:
ASTM D7091-13—Standard Practice for Nondestructive Method for Field Determination of Total Chloride Content
Measurement of Dry Film Thickness of Nonmagnetic Coat- SHRP S-329:2002—Condition Evaluation of Concrete
ings Applied to Ferrous Metals and Nonmagnetic Noncon- Bridges Relative to Reinforcement Corrosion. Volume 7:
ductive Coatings Applied to Non-Ferrous Metals Method for Field Measurement of Concrete Permeability
ASTM E8/E8M-16—Standard Test Methods for Tension SHRP S-330:1992—Condition Evaluation of Concrete
Testing of Metallic Materials Bridges Relative to Reinforcement Corrosion. Volume 8:
ASTM E122-17—Standard Practice for Calculating Procedure Manual
Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the
Average for Characteristic of a Lot or Process Authored documents
ASTM E376-17—Standard Practice for Measuring Carino, N., and Malhotra, V., 2004, Handbook on Nonde-
Coating Thickness by Magnetic-Field or Eddy-Current structive Testing of Concrete, second edition, Auerbach
(Electromagnetic) Testing Methods Publishing, 392 pp.
Gaudette, P., and Slaton, D., 2007, “Preservation of Evaluation of Existing Structures,” Concrete International,
Historic Concrete,” Preservation Brief 15, Heritage Preser- V. 33, No. 11, Nov., pp. 43-48.
vation Services, National Park Service, U.S. Department of Slaton, D., 2005, “The Preparation and Use of Historic
the Interior, Washington, DC, 16 pp. Structure Reports,” Preservation Brief 43, Heritage Preser-
Gupta, P., 2003, “Field Evaluation of the Prestressing vation Services, National Park Service, U.S. Department of
Force in Unbonded Tendons,” PTI Journal, V. 1, No. 2, the Interior, Washington, DC, 16 pp.
Aug., pp. 9-14. Stowe, R. L., and Thornton, H. T., 1984, “Engineering
Hookham, C., 1994, “Damage Tolerance Analysis in Condition Survey of Concrete in Service,” Technical Report
Structural Rehabilitation,” Proceedings, ASCE Structures REMR-CS-1, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Waterways
Congress, Reston, VA. Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS.
Mather, K., 1985, “Preservation Technology: Evaluating The Concrete Society, 1989, “Analysis of Hardened
Concrete in Structures,” Concrete International, V. 7, No. Concrete,” Technical Report No. 32, Surrey, UK.
10, Oct., pp. 33-41. The Concrete Society, 1992, “Nonstructural Cracks in
Mathey, R. G., and Clifton, J. R., 1988, “Review of Nonde- Concrete,” Technical Report No. 22, Surrey, UK.
structive Evaluation Methods Applicable to Construction The Concrete Society, 2001, “Diagnosis of Deterioration of
Materials and Structures,” NBS Technical Note 1247, U.S. Concrete Structures,” Technical Report No. 54, Surrey, UK.
Department of Commerce, Washington, DC. Thornton Jr., H. T., and Alexander, A. M., 1987, “Develop-
NRMCA, 1999, “In-Place Concrete Strength Evaluation— ment of Nondestructive Testing Systems for In Situ Evalua-
A Recommended Practice,” Committee on Research Engi- tion of Concrete Structures,” Technical Report REMR-CS-
neering and Standards, Publication No. 133-99, National 10, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Waterways Experiment
Ready Mixed Concrete Association, Silver Spring, MD. Station, Vicksburg, MS.
Sezen, H.; Hookham, C.; Elwood, K.; Bartlett, F.; and
Moore, M., 2011, “Core Testing Requirements for Seismic
· Technical committees that produce consensus reports, guides, specifications, and codes.
· Periodicals: the ACI Structural Journal, Materials Journal, and Concrete International.
Benefits of membership include a subscription to Concrete International and to an ACI Journal. ACI
members receive discounts of up to 40% on all ACI products and services, including documents, seminars
and convention registration fees.
As a member of ACI, you join thousands of practitioners and professionals worldwide who share
a commitment to maintain the highest industry standards for concrete technology, construction,
and practices. In addition, ACI chapters provide opportunities for interaction of professionals and
practitioners at a local level to discuss and share concrete knowledge and fellowship.
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