Deformation

Deformation, in simple terms is the change of shape of a structure which takes into the form of sagging, unstableness, springiness and buckling. In its worst case, deformation can also result in a collapse.

Deformation can affect various parts of a building, including groundwork, pillars, side walls, the roof, timber structures, modular frames, windows and doors.

Sagged Roof: Sagging of the roof is one of the most common forms encountered. The symptoms of a sagged roof are the formations of ridges and dish-like shapes. Causes behind this type of deformation are:

• Poor design and inadequate support
• Corrosion of fixings
• Overloading of the framing
• Damage caused to timber by pest infestation
• Distortion of galvanized metal sheets used in roofing

Deformation of Walls: Major vertical bowing, horizontal bending or even collapse of walls is the outcome of lack of resistance to vertical pressures from foundations, upper floors and roofs or horizontal pressures from strong winds and retained earth. Such instances of deformation are generated by defects in masonry or framed constructions. Some of them are listed below.

• Corrosion and rusting of walls or frames
• Overloading and movement in the foundation
• Inadequate engaged pier stiffness
• Poor concept of design
• Substandard materials or workmanship
• Other forces not accommodated for by the initial design

Defective Stairways: Poor design of staircases includes defective landings, unequal treads, loose newel posts, handrails and balustrades are often detrimental for the entire stairway, thereby posing threats of structural instability.

Deformation of Floor Structures: Horizontal cracking at the base of the wall results from initial poor design, floor overloading, shrinkage or inefficient workmanship. Timber floorings also tend to sag due to faulty timber connectors or fastenings, inadequate support underneath, insufficient blocking, under-sized joists, under-specified bearers and various other constitutional flaws.

Other Causes

• Lateral pressure from soil outside and over compaction of soil
• Uncontrolled water, poor drainage and improper waterproofing
• Roots of trees and bushes growing to exert huge pressures on foundation walls
• Expansion or contraction of foundation footers
• Ageing and poor maintenance of the building

We conduct home inspection service in the coastal belt including Gold Coast and Brisbane. Our building inspectors are able to detect looming threats of structural deformation and draw a detailed report in simple language that is easily understood by home-owners.