Structural evaluation is the first and most critical step in any restoration or rehabilitation project. It involves a systematic assessment of a structure’s current condition to determine its strength, stability, durability, and residual service life. The goal is to identify defects, assess their severity, and plan suitable repair or retrofitting measures.

Objectives of Structural Evaluation

  • Determine the current health of the structure
  • Identify visible and hidden defects
  • Analyze the root cause of deterioration
  • Assess the residual load-carrying capacity
  • Recommend appropriate repair/rehabilitation solutions

Steps in Structural Evaluation

  1. Preliminary Inspection
    • Visual survey and mapping of cracks, spalling, deformation, or corrosion
    • Review of design drawings, construction history, and previous maintenance records
  2. Detailed Structural Audit
    • Non-Destructive Testing (NDT):
      • Rebound Hammer Test (surface hardness)
      • Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Test (internal defects)
      • Half-Cell Potential Test (corrosion mapping)
      • Cover Meter Survey (cover thickness)
    • Destructive Testing (if required):
      • Core cutting for compressive strength testing
      • Chemical analysis of concrete (chlorides, sulphates, carbonation depth)
  3. Load Testing (If Necessary)
    • Simulating design loads to check deflection and serviceability
    • Required for bridges, slabs, and critical structural elements
  4. Analysis & Reporting
    • Compare results with IS codes / international standards
    • Identify deficient members and recommend strengthening measures
    • Provide detailed condition rating and priority list for repairs

Key Deliverables

  • Structural Health Report – with defect mapping, NDT results, and analysis
  • Remaining Service Life Assessment
  • Rehabilitation Strategy – outlining suitable materials, methods, and cost estimates
  • Risk & Safety Recommendations – immediate and long-term measures