Building pathology

Defining Building Pathology

• Building Pathology is a branch of architecture where professionals assess and diagnose buildings’ problems and suggest appropriate remedies.
• It involves the study of decay, defects and damage that affect buildings.
• This discipline uses scientific methods to understand the behaviour of building materials and structures over time.

Understanding the Causes of Building Defects

• Building defects can be caused by various factors including design errors, material failure, poor workmanship or environmental factors.
• Design errors can involve inadequate provision for expansion, contraction or other movements.
• Material failure can be due to chemical reactions, decay or deterioration over time.
• Poor workmanship includes incorrect assembly or application, inadequate surface preparation and not following manufacturer’s instructions.
• Environmental factors include conditions such as climate, ground conditions, and exposure to harmful materials.

Skills Required in Building Pathology

• Building Pathologists need a deep understanding of building systems, materials and structures.
• Possessing a strong knowledge of building codes and regulations.
• Being able to identify and interpret defects is a core building pathology skill.
• Building Pathologists should also be able to communicate complex information clearly, enabling effective reporting and advice-giving.

The Importance of Building Pathology

• It helps detect current and potential future issues, helping to improve the longevity of buildings.
• The process aids in maintenance planning, optimising the use of resources.
• Ultimately, building pathology assists in preserving historical or important buildings, safeguarding cultural heritage.
• Building pathology also plays a crucial role in warranty claims and litigation support in construction cases.

Process of Building Pathology

• Typically, a detailed inspection of the building is carried out, including visual checks and possibly destructive or non-destructive testing.
• All the detected issues are recorded and analysed to understand their causes and implications.
• Building Pathologists then provide recommendations for corrective measures based on their understanding and investigation of defects.
• A detailed report is generated which outlines the detected defects, their estimated cost of repair, recommendations for remedial work and a strategy for managing any future risks.