Masonry
|
In recent years, concrete masonry has become a popular building material due to its strength, durability, affordability, visual appearance, and its resistance to fire, noise, and degradation. Over time, the design and construction of masonry structures has evolved and become more complex. To function as designed, concrete masonry structures must be constructed properly. Our qualified inspectors confirm that the materials and workmanship meet specifications.
SK Geotechnical provides pre-placement, placement, and post-placement testing and inspection. These tests and inspection services assist the owner and contractor in evaluating the quality of masonry being placed in the structure. Tests are performed in accordance with the American Concrete Institute (ACI), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and International Building Codes (IBC) test and inspection procedures.
|
Masonry inspection
Masonry prisms for compressive strength tests
Warm Springs State Hospital |
Inspection
|
Good inspection is a vital part of any construction project. At SK Geotechnical, our inspectors have the knowledge and experience necessary to provide good judgment in obtaining the information required for the approved project plans and specifications. Through education, training and experience, our inspectors are qualified in reading construction plans and specifications, as well as interpreting the building codes required for masonry structures.
Because every project varies in size and design complexity, the duties and responsibilities of the inspector may also change. The level of special inspection and testing may vary from periodic to full time inspection. Our inspectors follow a stringent "checklist," while observing the masonry workmanship, materials, and placement of reinforcing materials. This "checklist" may be modified to accommodate more or less stringent project requirements. SK Geotechnical takes pride in maintaining complete and thorough project records.
|
Laboratory Testing
|
Prior to masonry placement, SK Geotechnical provides initial laboratory acceptance testing of masonry aggregate materials, concrete masonry units (CMU), and brick. Once the aggregate materials have been approved, a secondary set of laboratory tests can be performed to determine the physical properties used in masonry grout and mortar mix design proportioning.
|
Pre-Placement
|
|
SK Geotechnical provides on-site pre-placement inspection of:
- Site masonry materials
- Weather conditions
- Reinforcing steel
- Embedded plates and anchor bolts, grouting of cells and bond beams
|
Placement
|
|
SK Geotechnical provides on-site field testing during placement to evaluate compliance with project specifications. These tests include:
- Slump
- Air content
- Unit weight
- Observations of mortar, grout, and air temperatures
- Casting of grout prisms and mortar cubes/cylinders for compressive strength
|
Post-Placement
|
|
Once the masonry has been placed, SK Geotechnical provides post-placement inspection and testing of:
- Curing
- Enclosure removal
- Wall lines and grades
- Compressive strength of CMU, grout prisms, and mortar cylinders/cubes
|
SK Geotechnical is committed to providing the highest quality services. We understand the unique relationship between all parties involved with a construction project. Cooperation with the various parties that is consistent with the owner's interest leads to a reduction in costs along with an increase in quality. SK Geotechnical's involvement in the project will assist in producing the best structure possible.
|
