1. Non-Destructive Tests (NDT)
These tests evaluate structural integrity without damaging the building materials.
- Rebound Hammer Test – Assesses surface hardness and approximate compressive strength of concrete
- Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) Test – Detects internal cracks, voids, and uniformity in concrete
- Core Cutting and Testing – Provides actual compressive strength by extracting concrete samples
- Cover Meter Test – Locates reinforcement bars and measures concrete cover depth
- Half-Cell Potential Test – Evaluates corrosion potential of embedded steel reinforcement
- Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) – Maps internal structure and detects hidden features or voids
- Infrared Thermography – Detects moisture ingress, delamination, and thermal anomalies
2. Destructive Tests (if necessary and feasible)
Used when core data is needed and minimal material removal is acceptable.
- Core Extraction and Compressive Strength Testing
- Pull-Out / Pull-Off Tests – Determines bond strength of concrete and surface coatings
- Load Testing on Slabs and Beams – Assesses real-time structural performance under loads
3. Material-Specific Tests
Used to assess the condition of particular construction materials.
- Carbonation Depth Test – Measures depth of carbonation in concrete, affecting steel corrosion
- Chloride Content Test – Determines presence of chlorides that may cause steel corrosion
- Steel Tensile Strength Test – Evaluates remaining strength of reinforcement (if accessible)
- Masonry Tests (e.g., Prism Strength, Mortar Analysis) – Assesses strength of bricks and joints
4. Visual and Physical Inspection
- Crack mapping and width measurement
- Settlement or tilt measurement
- Deflection monitoring of beams/slabs
- Moisture and leakage inspection