Guideline for Structural Condition Assessment of Existing Buildings

Abstract

Changing economic conditions, concerns for historic preservation, emphasis on fully utilizing conveniently located structures, space shortages, and increasing cost of materials and products used in the construction of new buildings have resulted in a need to evaluate and more fully utilize the existing building inventory. To this end, the standard Guideline for Structural Condition Assessment of Existing Buildings was developed to provide the design community with guidelines for assessing the structural conditions of existing buildings constructed of combinations of material including concrete, masonry, metals, and wood. This edition (SEI/ ASCE 11-99) replaces ASCE 11-90. It consists of an overview of preliminary and detailed assessment procedures, of materials properties and test methods, and of evaluation procedures for various physical conditions of the structure. The standard is not intended to be inclusive or prescriptive but is expected to serve as a resource document for engineers, owners, and regulatory officials.