THE PATHOLOGY OF Building DEFECTS

What is Building Pathology

Building pathology is the scientific study of the causes and consequences of faults in buildings. It involves the systematic investigation of the behaviour of buildings, their components, and the materials of which they are constructed. Where defects are manifest, the symptoms are methodically investigated to diagnose their causes and establish appropriate remedies. More broadly, building pathology can inform design and construction to prevent construction failures and improve building performance.

Papers on Building Pathology

Building Acoustics

After cracking and water damage, complaints relating to building acoustics are more numerous than any other category of reported defect.

Faulty Building or Failed Construction?

Building defects, faults, and failures - damage and loss

Construction Defects

Balance the benefits of removing faults as they arise with the alternatives and follow the contractual mechanisms for remedying defects

Common Building Defects

The incidence of different types of defects

Water Damage - Rising Damp

Capillary rise and efflorescence

Corrosion

Uniform corrosion, Galvanic (bimetallic) corrosion, Pitting, Crevice corrosion, Intergranular corrosion, Exfoliation, Filiform Corrosion, Stress-corrosion cracking, Corrosion fatigue

Condensation

Surface or Interstitial, The Action of Condensate, Fungal Growth, Condensation Control

Building Defects Investigations

Unscientific investigation and imprecise reporting is potentially more descriptive of the level of competence of the surveyor than of the condition of the surveyed building

Defective Building Materials?

Negligent design or selection, failing to consider the sequence of tasks when building, Communication Between Tradesmen and Designers is Fundamental

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