Performance of Masonry Walls: Case Study in Kuwait
Publication: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 4, Issue 1
Abstract
Typical nonperformance conditions of wall construction in Kuwait are heat penetration, cracking due to high ambient temperature, and changes in moisture content of the building materials. To investigate the causes of cracking and the impact of local construction practices and environmental conditions, a 1,125 unit housing project was selected as a case study. A field survey and laboratory tests were carried out. Construction specifications and practices along with the properties of materials used in the project were studied. Crack location, direction, and pattern were recorded and studied. Laboratory tests were conducted to assess the properties of the masonry blocks and mortars used. The study showed that the main causes of wall cracking in Kuwait are poor design and workmanship, inadequate attention to construction details, and excessive drying shrinkage and wetting expansion of construction materials. The study recommended specific construction practices to prevent wall cracking in Kuwait. These recommendations were applied in a new housing project. Preliminary results of a field survey indicate a significant reduction in wall cracking.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 4 • Issue 1 • February 1992
Pages: 77 - 90
Copyright
Copyright © 1992 ASCE.
History
Published online: Feb 1, 1992
Published in print: Feb 1992
Authors
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