What Is A Root Wedging? Root wedging is a process in which plants grow into cracks in bedrock and widen them over time. This can happen through bird droppings or other means, and as the roots grow and exert pressure on the rocks, they can widen the cracks and even break the rocks. This process […]
What Is Flashing In Construction? Flashing in construction is a thin waterproof material usually made of metal or plastic, which is used to prevent water from entering buildings and protect them from the elements. Its purpose is to form a barrier between the outside wall of the building and anything below it (such as a […]
What Is Structural Dampness? Structural dampness is a term used to describe the presence of moisture in the walls, floors, and ceilings of buildings. It is caused when water penetrates into masonry and other structural materials such as timber and plaster, causing damage and promoting the growth of mould. Structural dampness can come from various […]
What Is A Hydration Weathering? Hydration Weathering is a type of chemical weathering in which minerals undergo changes in their chemical bonds when they come into contact with water. An example of this is the reaction between the mineral anhydrite and groundwater. Additionally, certain minerals such as sodium can dissolve in water to create a […]
What Is Hydrolysis Weathering? Hydrolysis weathering is a type of chemical weathering that occurs when water reacts with rocks, minerals and other materials. This chemical reaction causes the materials to break down into smaller pieces which are then more easily removed from the surface of the earth. Hydrolysis weathering is particularly effective in areas where […]
What Is Concrete Oxidation? Concrete oxidation is a form of corrosion triggered by exposure to oxygen. It occurs when air containing oxygen enters the pores in concrete and reacts with the embedded steel reinforcement, causing it to rust and expand. This expansion puts pressure on the outer portion of the concrete, often causing cracking and […]
What Is an Exfoliation Weathering? Exfoliation is a type of weathering that occurs when thin, curved layers of rock peel off from the surface of a rock mass. This can create dome-like hills and rounded boulders. Exfoliation typically occurs along lines called joints, which are located at or near the surface of the rock and […]
What Is Flow Table Test In Concrete? The Flow Table Test, also referred to as the Slump Test, is a method used to evaluate concrete consistency and workability. This test is performed by filling a standardized metal mold with freshly mixed concrete, then operating a specialized plunger which applies pressure to flatten the sample. A […]
What Is An Aggregate Base in Construction? The aggregate base is a type of construction material that is made up of crushed rock particles that are small enough to pass through a screen with 20-millimeter (mm) holes. It can be composed of either newly mined rock or recycled asphalt and concrete. Aggregate base is used […]
What Is A Tuckpointing? Why Is Tuckpointing Necessary? Tuckpointing is a technique that involves using two different colors of mortar to create the appearance of very thin mortar joints in brickwork. The mortar is typically chosen to contrast with the color of the bricks giving the illusion of finely detailed joints. In some parts of […]