Cracks

Principal Causes of Cracks –

For prevention or minimizing the occurrence of non-structural cracks, it is necessary to understand the basic courses and mechanism of cracking and certain properties of building materials which may lead to dimensional changes of the structural components. The principle mechanism causing non-structural cracks in the building are:

i) Moisture change

ii) Thermal movement

iii) Elastic deformation

iv) Creep

v) Chemical reaction

vi) Foundation movement and settlement of soil

vii) Growth of vegetation

General Measures for Prevention of Cracks –

Non-structural cracks in buildings usually occur due to more than cause mention in the previous chapter, therefore measures for prevention of cracks in many cases are common to more than one cause.

Measures for prevention of cracks could be broadly grouped under the following sub-heads:

i) Choice of materials

ii) Specification for mortar and concrete

iii) Design of buildings

iv) Construction techniques and practices, and

v) Environment