2. Introduction
A crack is a complete or incomplete
separation of concrete into two or more
parts produced by breaking or fracturing.
Cracks are one kind of universal problems
of concrete construction as it affects the
building artistic and it also destroys the
wall’s integrity, affects the structure safety
and even reduce the durability of
structure
3. Affects of Crack
Carbon dioxide penetrates into
the concrete through the cracks
and speed up carbonation
around the cracks, thus
shortening the structure usage.
The cracks in the concrete wall
would cause the leakage of the
building; it reduces the stiffness,
durability and seismic
performance of buildings.
Cracks on the wall surface
damage to the later rendering,
will affect to the appearance.
4. Types of Cracks
Structural Cracks: These cracks
occur due to incorrect design, faulty
construction or overloading and
these may endanger the safety of a
building.
Non-Structural Cracks: They are
due to internal forces developed in
materials due to moisture
variations, temperature variation,
crazing, effects of gases, liquids
etc.
Based On Width:
a) Thin - less than 1mm in width
b) Medium - 1 to 2mm in width
c) Wide - more than 2mm in width
