ᐅ Cracks in the concrete of the ring beam – Request for assessment

Hello everyone,

Yesterday, when I visited the construction site to check the latest progress, I noticed that there are cracks running across the concrete of the ring beam in several places. My gut feeling tells me this can’t be good. However, I would really appreciate a more informed evaluation from you. How serious is this issue, and how should it be properly repaired?

Thank you very much, -XIII-

Your feeling is correct; this is definitely a structural issue and would worry me a lot! These are not just surface cracks, but judging by their width, they are substantial damages.

Thank you for the assessment. Yes, the cracks go all the way through, and yes, I am concerned as well. It’s good that I haven’t paid the last invoice yet.

It really doesn’t look good. Therefore, I agree with Bookstar.

Concrete is strong under compression but not tension. That is the role of the steel. If the ring beam is subjected to tension (which it probably will be), the concrete can crack. However, I think these cracks are a bit excessive. A structural engineer or a qualified independent expert should be able to help you with this.

The concrete cover may not have been maintained.