Structural systems composed of reinforced concrete are present in almost every building type, from the main building frame of a parking structure to the simple shallow foundation of a wood framed home. Reinforced concrete is typically chosen for its durability, strength and predictable interaction with soil and provides engineers and architects the ability to design structures supporting significant loads over large spans.

Although reinforced concrete is successfully implemented into most building projects, a variety of conditions including corrosive environments, inadequate design and improper construction practices can lead to the rapid deterioration of the cement and steel reinforcement resulting in a potential danger to life safety as well as the integrity of the building.

MSD Professional Engineering, Inc. provides forensic investigation services for reinforced concrete suffering from a wide range of failure symptoms. Past projects have included concrete failures caused by:

• Exposure to salt water (chloride ion infiltration)
• Insufficient concrete coverage over steel reinforcement
• Exposure to corrosive industrial chemicals
• Vehicular and heavy equipment impact
• Expansive soil conditions
• Inadequately prepared building pads
• Earthquake damage
• Fire damage
• Undermining due to interaction with water and moisture intrusion
• Improper concrete mix design
• Improper placement techniques and construction practices