Inspection and condition evaluation of structures

The efficiency of any repair or strengthening scheme depends very much on an accurate assessment of the actual state of the structure. Testing and inspection methodology should be based on an incremental strategy: the type and extent of further testing are decided as deficiencies are uncovered. Although non-destructive testing methods are usually preferred, they should be complemented by destructive methods as needed to obtain a clear understanding of the nature, causes and extent of the defects.