ACI 201.

1R-08

Guide for Conducting a Visual

Inspection of Concrete in Service

Reported by ACI Committee 201

 First Printing
July 2008

American Concrete Institute
Advancing concrete knowledge

Guide for Conducting a Visual Inspection of Concrete in Service

Copyright by the American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI. All rights reserved. This material
may not be reproduced or copied, in whole or part, in any printed, mechanical, electronic, film, or other
distribution and storage media, without the written consent of ACI.

The technical committees responsible for ACI committee reports and standards strive to avoid ambiguities,
omissions, and errors in these documents. In spite of these efforts, the users of ACI documents occasionally
find information or requirements that may be subject to more than one interpretation or may be
incomplete or incorrect. Users who have suggestions for the improvement of ACI documents are
requested to contact ACI. Proper use of this document includes periodically checking for errata at
www.concrete.org/committees/errata.asp for the most up-to-date revisions.

ACI committee documents are intended for the use of individuals who are competent to evaluate the
significance and limitations of its content and recommendations and who will accept responsibility for the
application of the material it contains. Individuals who use this publication in any way assume all risk and
accept total responsibility for the application and use of this information.

All information in this publication is provided as is without warranty of any kind, either express or implied,
including but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or
non-infringement.

ACI and its members disclaim liability for damages of any kind, including any special, indirect, incidental,
or consequential damages, including without limitation, lost revenues or lost profits, which may result
from the use of this publication.

It is the responsibility of the user of this document to establish health and safety practices appropriate to
the specific circumstances involved with its use. ACI does not make any representations with regard to
health and safety issues and the use of this document. The user must determine the applicability of all
regulatory limitations before applying the document and must comply with all applicable laws and regulations,
including but not limited to, United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) health
and safety standards.

Order information: ACI documents are available in print, by download, on CD-ROM, through electronic
subscription, or reprint and may be obtained by contacting ACI.

Most ACI standards and committee reports are gathered together in the annually revised ACI Manual of
Concrete Practice (MCP).

American Concrete Institute

38800 Country Club Drive
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
U.S.A.
Phone: 248-848-3700
Fax: 248-848-3701
www.concrete.org

ISBN 978-0-87031-290-8
 ACI 201.1R-08

Guide for Conducting a Visual Inspection

of Concrete in Service
Reported by ACI Committee 201

Russell L. Hill Kevin J. Folliard

Chair Secretary

Jon B. Ardahl* William G. Hime Stella Lucie Marusin Niels Thaulow

Andrew J. Boyd Charles J. Hookham Mohamad A. Nagi Michael D. A. Thomas
Paul W. Brown R. Doug Hooton Robert E. Neal Paul J. Tikalsky
Ramon J. Carrasquillo Brian B. Hope Charles K. Nmai David Trejo
Rachel J. Detwiler Donald J. Janssen Karthik H. Obla Claude B. Trusty, Jr.

Jonathan E. Dongell Roy H. Keck Robert C. ONeill Thomas J. Van Dam
Per Fidjestol Mohammad S. Khan David A. Rothstein Orville R. Werner, II
Harvey H. Haynes Kimberly E. Kurtis Mauro J. Scali Terry J. Willems
Geoffrey Hichborn, Sr. Joseph F. Lamond Hannah C. Schell Michelle L. Wilson

Eugene D. Hill, Jr. Michael L. Leming Jan P. Skalny

*
Subcommittee 201-C Chair during revision.

Subcommittee 201-C members who revised this guide.

Deceased.

This guide provides terminology to perform and report on the visual condition CONTENTS
of concrete in service. It includes a checklist of the many details that may Chapter 1Introduction, p. 201.1R-2
be considered in making a report and descriptions for various concrete 1.1Scope
conditions associated with the durability of concrete. 1.2Introduction
1.3References
Keywords: chemical attack; concrete durability; corrosion; cracking;
deterioration; discoloration; environments; joints; oxidation; popouts; scaling;
serviceability; spalling; staining; surface defects; surface imperfections. Chapter 2Descriptions of distress, p. 201.1R-2
2.1Cracking
2.2Distress
2.3Textural features and phenomena relative to their
ACI Committee Reports, Guides, Manuals, Standard development
Practices, and Commentaries are intended for guidance in
planning, designing, executing, and inspecting construction.
This document is intended for the use of individuals who are Chapter 3Visual inspection report and checklist,
competent to evaluate the significance and limitations of its p. 201.1R-12
content and recommendations and who will accept
responsibility for the application of the material it contains. Appendix, p. 201.1R-14
The American Concrete Institute disclaims any and all
responsibility for the stated principles. The Institute shall not
be liable for any loss or damage arising therefrom. ACI 201.1R-08 supersedes ACI 201.1R-92 (Reapproved 1997) and was adopted and
Reference to this document shall not be made in contract published July 2008.
Copyright 2008, American Concrete Institute.
documents. If items found in this document are desired by the All rights reserved including rights of reproduction and use in any form or by any
Architect/Engineer to be a part of the contract documents, they means, including the making of copies by any photo process, or by electronic or
shall be restated in mandatory language for incorporation by mechanical device, printed, written, or oral, or recording for sound or visual reproduction
the Architect/Engineer. or for use in any knowledge or retrieval system or device, unless permission in writing
is obtained from the copyright proprietors.

201.1R-1
201.1R-2 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

CHAPTER 1INTRODUCTION 201.2R Guide to Durable Concrete

1.1Scope 207.3R Practices for Evaluation of Concrete in Existing
This is a guide for a visual inspection of concrete in Massive Structures for Service Conditions
service. A visual inspection is an examination of concrete to
224.1R Causes, Evaluation, and Repair of Cracks in
identify and define many of the various conditions concrete
Concrete Structures
may exhibit during its service life. The visual inspection is
typically limited to the surfaces of the concrete structure that 228.1R In-Place Methods to Estimate Concrete Strength
are visually accessible. 228.2R Nondestructive Test Methods for Evaluation of
Concrete in Structures
1.2Introduction 311.1R ACI Manual of Concrete Inspection (SP-2)
By completing a visual inspection of the concrete immedi- 349.3R Evaluation of Existing Nuclear Safety-Related
ately after construction, and through repetition at intervals Concrete Structures
during the concretes service life, the visual inspection
350.1 Tightness Testing of Environmental Engineering
provides important historical information on performance
Concrete Structures
and durability. The inspection results also aid in early
detection of distress and deterioration, enabling repair or 364.1R Guide for Evaluation of Concrete Structures
rehabilitation before replacement is necessary. Before Rehabilitation
It is important that the inspector properly document any 437R Strength Evaluation of Existing Concrete Buildings
observations related to environmental and loading conditions. This guide should also be used in conjunction with the
Inspections are often supplemented with nondestructive following documents for condition assessment of structures:
tests, destructive tests, and other investigations, especially 1. American Society for Civil Engineers, Guideline for
when distress and deterioration is observed and information Structural Condition Assessment of Existing Buildings,
regarding the internal condition of the concrete is needed. SEI/ASCE 11-99, ASCE, Reston, VA, 2000, 160 pp.
While a visual inspection is most often used in connection 2. American Society for Civil Engineers, Guideline for
with the condition survey of concrete that is showing defects Condition Assessment of the Building Envelope, SEI/
or some degree of distress, its application is recommended ASCE 30-00, ASCE, Reston, VA, 2000, 64 pp.
for all concrete structures. It is important that the inspector
3. Mufti, A., Guideline for Structural Health Monitoring,
properly document any observations related to environmental
exposure (effects from physical loads, deformations, defects, Design Manual No. 2, ISIS Canada, Winnipeg, MB, 2001.
imperfections, and distress), durability, and performance. 4. AASHTO, Guide Specifications for Strength Evaluation
Concrete material records and construction practices should of Existing Steel and Concrete Bridges, AASHTO,
be collected and reviewed. Washington, DC, 1989.
The checklist includes items that might have a bearing on 5. Diagnosis of Deterioration in Concrete Structures,
the durability and performance of the concrete. Individuals Technical Report No. 54, The Concrete Society, Blackwater,
making the survey should not limit their investigation to the Camberley, UK, 2000.
items listed, but should review any other contributing 6. Corrosion of Steel in Concrete: Investigation and
factors. Following the guide does not eliminate the need for Assessment BRE Digest 444, Part 2, in Concrete Repair
intelligent observations and the use of sound judgment. Manual, American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI,
Individuals performing the inspection should be experienced 2003, 2093 pp.
and competent in concrete condition surveys. In addition to 7. AASHTO, Manual for Condition Evaluation of
written descriptions, sketches of relevant features are valuable Bridges, second edition, AASHTO, Washington, DC, 2003.
and encouraged. Photographs, including a scale to indicate
8. Distress Identification Manual for the Long-Term
dimensions, are of great value in showing the condition of
Pavement Performance Project, Strategic Highway
concrete. Video coverage should be considered for docu-
Research Program SHRP-P-338, Federal Highway Admin-
mentation as it provides an enhanced visual dimension that
may exceed that of still photography. istration, Washington, DC, 1993.
The descriptions and photographs provided in Chapter 2
illustrate typical observations encountered during inspections CHAPTER 2DESCRIPTIONS OF DISTRESS
and aid in the preparation of a condition survey report by Imperfections and distresses have been categorized and
identifying the characteristics of potential problems and illustrated by photographs, and their severity and extent of
describing their condition. The checklist in Chapter 3 is occurrence have been quantified where possible. The
provided to assist the user to identify the characteristics of purpose of the photographs is to standardize the reporting of
potential condition survey findings and their description. the condition of the concrete in a structure. Those
performing the survey should be thoroughly familiar with
1.3References the terminology of various types of imperfections and
This guide should be used in conjunction with ACI distresses. Figures are provided to illustrate the various
Concrete Terminology and the following American Concrete types of defects and distresses, along with the cause of
Institute documents. deterioration when known.
 GUIDE FOR CONDUCTING A VISUAL INSPECTION OF CONCRETE IN SERVICE 201.1R-3

Fig. 2.1.1Cracks of varying widths.

Fig. 2.1.2.2(a) Craze cracking; and (b) craze cracking

2.1Cracking highlighted with the aid of denatured alcohol.
Cracka complete or incomplete separation, of either
concrete or masonry, into two or more parts produced by
breaking or fracturing. 2.1.2.4 Diagonal crackin a flexural member, an inclined
Cracking of concrete should be reported based on crack crack, caused by shear stress, usually at approximately
widths and the type of crack. 45 degrees to the axis; or a crack in a slab, not parallel to
2.1.1 Crack widthsExamples of cracks of varying either the lateral or longitudinal directions (Fig. 2.1.2.4(a)
widths are shown in Fig. 2.1.1(a) and (b). and (b)).
2.1.2 Crack patterns 2.1.2.5 Hairline crackscracks in an exposed-to-view
2.1.2.1 Checkingdevelopment of shallow cracks at concrete surface having widths so small as to be barely
closely spaced but irregular intervals on the surface of perceptible.
plaster, cement paste, mortar, or concrete. (See also cracks 2.1.2.6 Longitudinal cracksa crack that develops
and crazing.) parallel to the length of the member.
2.1.2.2 Craze cracksfine random cracks or fissures in 2.1.2.7 Map cracking1) intersecting cracks that
a surface of plaster, cement paste, mortar, or concrete extend below the surface of hardened concrete; caused by
(Fig. 2.1.2.2(a) and (b)). shrinkage of the drying surface concrete that is restrained by
2.1.2.2.1 Crazingthe development of craze cracks; concrete at greater depths where either little or no shrinkage
the pattern of craze cracks existing in a surface. (See also occurs; vary in width from fine and barely visible to open
checking and cracks.) and well-defined; or 2) the chief symptom of a chemical
2.1.2.3 D-cracksa series of cracks in concrete near and reaction between alkalis in cement and mineral constituents
roughly parallel to joints and edges (Fig. 2.1.2.3(a) and (b)). in aggregate within hardened concrete; due to differential
201.1R-4 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Fig. 2.1.2.3D-cracks: (a) fine; and (b) severe, with spalling

present.

Fig. 2.1.2.7Map (pattern) cracking.

rate of volume change in different members of the concrete;

cracking is usually random and on a fairly large scale and, in
severe instances, the cracks may reach a width of 12.7 mm
(0.50 in.) (Fig. 2.1.2.7(a) and (b)). (See also checking and
crazing; also known as pattern cracking.)
2.1.2.8 Pattern crackingcracking on concrete surfaces
in the form of a repeated sequence; resulting from a decrease
in volume of the material near the surface, or an increase in
volume of the material below the surface, or both. (See map
cracking.)
2.1.2.9 Plastic shrinkage crackingcracking that
occurs in the surface of fresh concrete soon after it is placed
and while it is still plastic (Fig. 2.1.2.9(a) and (b)).
2.1.2.10 Random cracksuncontrolled cracks that
develop at various directions away from the control joints.
2.1.2.11 Shrinkage crackingcracking of a structure or
member due to failure in tension caused by external or
internal restraints as reduction in moisture content develops,
carbonation occurs, or both (Fig. 2.1.2.11).
2.1.2.12 Temperature crackingcracking due to tensile
failure, caused by temperature drop in members subjected to
external restraints or by a temperature differential in
Fig. 2.1.2.4Diagonal cracking. members subjected to internal restraints (Fig. 2.1.2.12).
 GUIDE FOR CONDUCTING A VISUAL INSPECTION OF CONCRETE IN SERVICE 201.1R-5

Fig. 2.1.2.12Temperature cracking.

Fig. 2.2.2Diagonal cracking due to curling of floor slab.

Fig. 2.1.2.9(a) Plastic shrinkage cracking; and (b) plastic

shrinkage cracking, close-up.

Fig. 2.2.4Deformation and spalling due to corrosion of

reinforcement.

material during either testing or exposure to service. (See

Fig. 2.1.2.11Shrinkage cracking. also disintegration.)
2.2.1 Chalkingformation of a loose powder resulting
2.1.2.13 Transverse crackscracks that occur across from the disintegration of the surface of concrete or an
the longer dimension of the member. applied coating, such as cementitious coating.
2.2.2 Curlingthe distortion of concrete member from its
2.2Distress original shape such as the warping of a slab due to differences
Concrete distress should be reported based on visual in temperature or moisture content in the zones adjacent to
observations of the deterioration. its opposite faces (Fig. 2.2.2). (See also warping.)
Deterioration1) physical manifestation of failure of a 2.2.3 Deflectionmovement of a point on a structure or
material (for example, cracking, delamination, flaking, structural element, usually measured as a linear displacement or
pitting, scaling, spalling, and staining) caused by environmental as succession displacements traverse to a reference line or axis.
or internal autogenous influences on rock and hardened 2.2.4 Deformationa change in dimension or shape
concrete as well as other materials; or 2) decomposition of (Fig. 2.2.4).
201.1R-6 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Fig. 2.2.6(c)Disintegration from chemical attack.

Fig. 2.2.5Delamination.

Fig. 2.2.6(d)Disintegration of sewer pipe from biological

chemical attack.

Fig. 2.2.6(a)Disintegration.

Fig. 2.2.6(e)Disintegration due to erosion and abrasion.

Fig. 2.2.6(b)Disintegration from chemical attack.

2.2.5 Delaminationa separation along a plane parallel to

a surface, as in the case of a concrete slab, a horizontal splitting,
cracking, or separation within a slab in a plane roughly
parallel to, and generally near, the upper surface; found most
Fig. 2.2.6(f)Disintegration due to erosion and cavitation
frequently in bridge decks and caused by the corrosion of damage.
reinforcing steel or freezing and thawing; similar to spalling,
scaling, or peeling except that delamination affects large 2.2.6 Disintegrationreduction into small fragments and
areas and can often only be detected by nondestructive tests, subsequently into particles (Fig. 2.2.6(a) through (f)). (See
such as tapping or chain dragging (Fig. 2.2.5). also deterioration.)
 GUIDE FOR CONDUCTING A VISUAL INSPECTION OF CONCRETE IN SERVICE 201.1R-7

Fig. 2.2.9Dusting.
Fig. 2.2.13.1Joint spall.

Fig. 2.2.13.2Joint sealant failure.

2.2.11 Exfoliationdisintegration occurring by peeling

off in successive layers; swelling up, and opening into leaves
or plates like a partly opened book.
2.2.12 Exudationa liquid or viscous gel-like material
discharged through a pore, crack, or opening in the surface
of concrete.
2.2.13 Joint deficienciesexpansion, contraction, and
construction joints not functioning in intended service
Fig. 2.2.10(a) Efflorescence staining; and (b) cracking conditions.
and efflorescence. 2.2.13.1 Joint spalla spall adjacent to a joint
(Fig. 2.2.13.1).
2.2.7 Distortionsee deformation. 2.2.13.2 Joint sealant failurejoints opened due to a
2.2.8 Drummy areaarea where there is a hollow sound cracked and/or debonded sealant (Fig. 2.2.13.2).
beneath a layer of concrete due to a delamination, poor 2.2.13.3 Joint leakageliquid migrating through the
consolidation, or void. (See also delamination.) joint.
2.2.9 Dustingthe development of a powdered material at 2.2.13.4 Joint faultdifferential displacement of a
the surface of hardened concrete (Fig. 2.2.9). (See also portion of a structure along a joint.
chalking.) 2.2.14 Leakagecontained material is migrating through
2.2.10 Efflorescencea deposit of salts, usually white, the concrete member.
formed on a surface, the substance having emerged in solution 2.2.14.1 Leakage, liquidliquid is migrating through
from within either concrete or masonry and subsequently the concrete (Fig. 2.2.14.1).
been precipitated by a reaction, such as carbonation or 2.2.14.2 Leakage, gasgas is migrating through the
evaporation (Fig. 2.2.10(a) and (b)). concrete.
201.1R-8 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Fig. 2.2.17Pitting.

Fig. 2.2.14.1Leakage, liquid.

Fig. 2.2.18.1Small popout.

2.2.15 Mortar flakinga form of scaling over coarse

aggregate (Fig. 2.2.15).
Fig. 2.2.15Mortar flaking. 2.2.16 Peelinga process in which thin flakes of mortar
are broken away from a concrete surface, such as by deteriora-
tion or by adherence of surface mortar to forms as forms are
removed (Fig. 2.2.16).
2.2.17 Pittingdevelopment of relatively small cavities
in a surface; in concrete, localized disintegration, such as a
popout; localized corrosion evident as minute cavities on the
surface (Fig. 2.2.17).
2.2.18 Popoutthe breaking away of small portions of a
concrete surface due to localized internal pressure that leaves
a shallow, typical conical, depression with a broken coarse
aggregate at the bottom.
2.2.18.1 Popouts, smallpopouts leaving depres-
sions up to 10 mm (0.4 in.) in diameter, or the equivalent
(Fig. 2.2.18.1).
2.2.18.2 Popouts, mediumpopouts leaving depres-
sions between 10 and 50 mm (0.4 and 2 in.) in diameter
(Fig. 2.2.18.2).
2.2.18.3 Popouts, largepopouts leaving depressions
greater than 50 mm (2 in.) in diameter (Fig. 2.2.18.3).
2.2.19 Scalinglocal flaking or peeling away of the near-
surface portion of hardened concrete or mortar. (See also
Fig. 2.2.16Peeling. peeling and spalls.)
 GUIDE FOR CONDUCTING A VISUAL INSPECTION OF CONCRETE IN SERVICE 201.1R-9

Fig. 2.2.18.2Medium popout.

Fig. 2.2.19.3Severe scaling.

Fig. 2.2.18.3Large popout.

Fig. 2.2.19.4Very severe scaling.

2.2.19.1 Scaling, lightloss of surface mortar without

exposure of coarse aggregate.
2.2.19.2 Scaling, mediumloss of surface mortar 5 to
10 mm (0.2 to 0.4 in.) in depth and exposure of coarse aggregate
(Fig. 2.2.19.2).
2.2.19.3 Scaling, severeloss of surface mortar 5 to
10 mm (0.2 to 0.4 in.) in depth with some loss of mortar
surrounding aggregate particles 10 to 20 mm (0.4 to 0.8 in.)
in depth (Fig. 2.2.19.3).
2.2.19.4 Scaling, very severeloss of coarse aggregate
particles as well as surface mortar, generally to a depth
greater than 20 mm (0.8 in.) (Fig. 2.2.19.4).
2.2.20 Spalla fragment, usually in the shape of a flake,
detached from a concrete member by a blow, by the action of
weather, by pressure, by fire, or by expansion within the
Fig. 2.2.19.2Medium scaling. larger mass.
201.1R-10 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Fig. 2.3.2Blistering.

Fig. 2.2.20.1Small spall due to tie rod rusting.

Fig. 2.3.3Bugholes.

2.2.20.2 Large spallmay be roughly circular or oval

or, in some cases, elongated, and is more than 20 mm
(0.8 in.) in depth and 150 mm (6 in.) in greatest dimension
(Fig. 2.2.20.2(a) and (b)).
2.2.21 Warpingout-of-plane deformation of the corners,
edges, and surface of a pavement, slab, or wall panel from its
original shape. (See also curling.)

2.3Textural features and phenomena relative to

their development
Textural features and phenomena should be reported
based on visual observations.
2.3.1 Air voida space in cement paste, mortar, or concrete
filled with air; an entrapped air void is characteristically 1 mm
(0.04 in.) or greater in size and irregular in shape; entrained air
void is typically between 10 m and 1 mm (0.04 mil and
0.04 in.) in diameter and spherical or nearly so.
2.3.2 Blisteringthe irregular raising of a thin layer at the
surface of placed mortar or concrete during or soon after
completion of the finishing operation; also, bulging of the
finish plaster coat as it separates and draws away from the
Fig. 2.2.20.2(a) Large spall; and (b) spalling of concrete base coat (Fig. 2.3.2).
and rusting of reinforcement. 2.3.3 Bugholessmall regular or irregular cavities,
usually not exceeding 15 mm (0.6 in.) in diameter, resulting
2.2.20.1 Small spalla roughly circular depression not from entrapment of air bubbles at the surface of formed
greater than 20 mm (0.8 in.) in depth and 150 mm (6 in.) in concrete during placement and consolidation (Fig. 2.3.3).
any dimension (Fig. 2.2.20.1). (Also known as surface air voids.)
 GUIDE FOR CONDUCTING A VISUAL INSPECTION OF CONCRETE IN SERVICE 201.1R-11

Fig. 2.3.5Cold-joint line.

Fig. 2.3.6Discoloration. Fig. 2.3.7Honeycombing.

2.3.4 Cold jointa joint or discontinuity resulting from a 2.3.8 Incrustationa crust or coating, generally hard,
delay in placement of sufficient duration to preclude inter- formed on the surface of concrete or masonry construction or
mingling and bonding of the material in two successive lifts on aggregate particles.
of concrete, mortar, or the like. 2.3.9 Laitancea layer of weak material known as residue
2.3.5 Cold-joint linesvisible lines on the surfaces of derived from cementitious material and aggregate fines
formed concrete indicating the presence of a cold joint where either: 1) carried by bleeding to the surface or to the internal
one layer of concrete had hardened before subsequent cavities of freshly placed concrete; or 2) separated from the
concrete was placed (Fig. 2.3.5). concrete and deposited on the concrete surface or internal
2.3.6 Discolorationdeparture of color from that which is cavities during placement of concrete underwater.
normal or desired (Fig. 2.3.6). (See also staining.) 2.3.10 Sand pocketa zone in concrete or mortar
2.3.7 Honeycombvoids left in concrete due to failure of containing fine aggregate with little or no cement material.
the mortar to effectively fill the spaces among coarse aggre- 2.3.11 Sand streaka streak of exposed fine aggregate in
gate particles (Fig. 2.3.7(a) and (b)). the surface of formed concrete, caused by bleeding.
201.1R-12 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Fig. 2.3.14Stalactite.
(a)

2.3.12 Segregationthe differential concentration of the

components of mixed concrete, aggregate, or the like,
resulting in nonuniform proportions in the mass.
2.3.13 Stainingdiscoloration by foreign matter
(Fig. 2.3.13(a) through (c)).
2.3.14 Stalactitea downward-pointing deposit formed
as an accretion of mineral matter produced by evaporation of
dripping liquid from the surface of concrete, commonly
shaped like an icicle (Fig. 2.3.14). (See also stalagmite.)
2.3.15 Stalagmitean upward-pointing deposit formed as an
accretion of mineral matter produced by evaporation of dripping
liquid, projecting from the surface of rock or of concrete,
commonly roughly conical in shape. (See also stalactite.)
2.3.16 Stratificationthe separation of overwet or
overvibrated concrete into horizontal layers with increasingly
lighter material toward the top; water, laitance, mortar, and
coarse aggregate tend to occupy successively lower positions
in that order; a layered structure in concrete resulting from
placing of successive batches that differ in appearance;
occurrence in aggregate stockpiles of layers of differing
(b) grading or composition; a layered structure in a rock foundation.

CHAPTER 3VISUAL INSPECTION REPORT

AND CHECKLIST
Individuals conducting the visual inspection should select
those items important to the specific concerns relating to the
reasons for the inspection. Other items and factors not indicated
in the checklist may be involved and should not be overlooked
during the inspection. The Visual Inspection Form in the
Appendix may be used to document results of the inspection.
A final report should be prepared to document the results
of the completed inspection. The report should include the
following as a minimum:
(a) Names of individuals conducting inspection;
(b) Purpose of the inspection;
(c) Listing of available existing documentation for the
structure;
(c) (d) Type, age, location, and general description of the
structure;
Fig. 2.3.13(a) Staining from rust; (b) staining from potassium (e) Inspection techniques employed (for example,
permanganate; and (c) staining from ferric chloride. direct visual inspection and chain drag);
 GUIDE FOR CONDUCTING A VISUAL INSPECTION OF CONCRETE IN SERVICE 201.1R-13

(f) Field observations and extent of structure inspected; 2.3.5 Traffic

(g) Field tests employed and data collected, if applicable; 2.3.6 Seismic
(h) Conclusions and recommendations; and 2.3.7 Other
(i) Annotated photographs and sketches. 2.4 Soils (foundation conditions)
The first page of the report should include the name(s) of 2.4.1 Expansive soil
the personnel participating in the inspection, including 2.4.2 Compressible soil (settlement)
person in responsible charge, names of any subcontractors 2.4.3 Evidence of pumping
used (if applicable), date of the work, and weather conditions 3. Distress indicators
during the survey. The conclusions should include recom- 3.1 Cracking
mendations for further testing and evaluation, if needed, to 3.2 Staining
quantify any inspection observations, such as to assess the 3.3 Surface deposits and exudations
degree of internal degradation.
3.4 Leaking
The visual inspection is often used as an introductory step
4. Present condition of structure
in the evaluation of a structure for structural capacity, such
4.1 Overall apparent alignment of structure
as to justify continued or altered use, to analyze in-place
4.1.1 Settlement
strength or deformation, or to define the need for mainte-
nance and rehabilitation. The related ACI reports listed in 4.1.2 Deflection
Chapter 1 should be reviewed to obtain additional guidance 4.1.3 Expansion
before mobilization, particularly if the survey is part of a 4.1.4 Contraction
more encompassing evaluation. 4.2 Surface condition of concrete
4.2.1 General conditions (good, satisfactory, poor)
Checklist 4.2.2 Formed and finished surfaces
1. Description of structure 4.2.2.1 Smoothness
1.1 Name, location, type, and size 4.2.2.2 Bugholes (surface air voids)
1.2 Owner, project engineer, contractor, date(s) of 4.2.2.3 Sand streaks
construction 4.2.2.4 Honeycomb
1.3 Photographs 4.2.2.5 Soft areas
1.3.1 General view 4.2.2.6 Cold joints
1.3.2 Detailed close-up of condition of area 4.2.2.7 Staining
1.4 Sketch map-orientation indicating the sunny and 4.2.3 Cracking
shady areas and the well and poorly drained regions 4.2.3.1 Location and frequency
2. Nature of environmental and loading conditions 4.2.3.2 Crack map
2.1 Exposure 4.2.3.3 Width and pattern (see descriptions)
2.1.1 Environment: arid, subtropical, marine, fresh- 4.2.3.4 Leaching, stalactites
water, industrial, etc. 4.2.3.5 Working versus nonworking (dormant)
2.1.2 Weather (July and January mean temperatures,
4.2.4 Scaling
mean annual rainfall, and months in which 60% of
4.2.4.1 Area, depth
rainfall occurs)
4.2.4.2 Type (see definitions)
2.1.3 Freezing and thawing
4.2.5 Spalls and popouts
2.1.4 Wetting and drying
4.2.5.1 Number, size, and depth
2.1.5 Drying under dry atmosphere
4.2.5.2 Type (see definitions)
2.1.6 Chemical corrosion and attack: sulfates, acids,
bases, chloride, gases 4.2.6 Stains, efflorescence
2.1.7 Abrasion, erosion, cavitation, impact 4.2.7 Exposed reinforcement
2.1.8 Electric conductivity 4.2.7.1 Corrosion
2.1.9 Deicing chemicals that contain chloride ions 4.2.8 Curling and warping
2.1.10 Heat from adjacent sources 4.2.9 Erosion
2.2 Drainage 4.2.9.1 Abrasion
2.2.1 Flashing 4.2.9.2 Cavitation
2.2.2 Joint sealants 4.2.10 Previous patching or other repair
2.2.3 Weepholes 4.2.11 Surface coatings/protective systems/linings/ toppings
2.2.4 Contour 4.2.11.1 Type and thickness
2.2.5 Elevation of drains 4.2.11.2 Bond to concrete
2.3 Loading conditions 4.2.11.3 Condition
2.3.1 Dead 4.2.12 Penetrating sealers
2.3.2 Live 4.2.12.1 Type
2.3.3 Impact 4.2.12.2 Effectiveness
2.3.4 Vibration 4.2.12.3 Discoloration
201.1R-14 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

APPENDIX

VISUAL INSPECTION FORM

Report number
1.
GENERAL Purpose of inspection
Inspectors name(s)
Name
Location
Type
Size
Owner
1A. Project engineer
DESCRIPTION OF
Contractor
THE STRUCTURE
Date(s) of construction
General view
Photographs
Detailed close-up of condition of area
Sketch map orientation indicating
sunny and shady areas and well and
poorly drained regions
Normalweight aggregate type
Aggregate size
1B. MATERIALS Admixture type
USED Concrete
(if known) Mixture proportion
Compressive strength
Modulus of elasticity
Environment (arid, subtropical, marine,
freshwater, industrial, etc.)
Weather (July and Jan. mean temperatures,
mean annual rainfall, and months in which
60% of rainfall occurs)
Freezing and thawing
Wetting and drying
Exposure Drying under dry atmosphere
Chemical corrosion and attack (sulfates,
acids, bases, chloride, gases)
Abrasion, erosion, cavitation, impact
Electric conductivity
Deicing chemicals that contain chloride
ions
2. Heat from adjacent sources
NATURE OF Flashing
ENVIRONMENTAL
AND LOADING Joint sealants
CONDITIONS Drainage Weepholes
Contour
Elevation of drains
Dead
Live
Impact
Loading conditions Vibration
Traffic
Seismic
Other
Expansive soil
Soils (foundation conditions) Compressible soil (settlement)
Evidence of pumping
Cracking
3. Staining
DISTRESS
INDICATORS Surface deposits and exudations
Leaking
 GUIDE FOR CONDUCTING A VISUAL INSPECTION OF CONCRETE IN SERVICE 201.1R-15

VISUAL INSPECTION FORM

Settlement
Overall apparent alignment of Deflection
structure Expansion
Contraction
General condition: good, satisfactory, poor
Smoothness
Bugholes
(surface air voids)
Sand streaks
Formed and finished surfaces Honeycomb
Soft areas

Cold joints
Staining
Location and
frequency
Crack map

Cracking Width and pattern

4. Leaching, stalactites
PRESENT
CONDITION OF Working versus
STRUCTURE nonworking
Surface condition of concrete (dormant)
Area, depth
Scaling
Type
No., size, and depth
Spalls and popouts
Type
Stains, efflorescence
Exposed reinforcement: corrosion
Curling and warping
Abrasion
Erosion
Cavitation
Previous patching or other repair
Type and thickness
Surface coatings, protective systems, linings,
Bond to concrete
toppings
Condition
Type
Penetrating sealers Effectiveness
Discoloration

American Concrete Institute
Advancing concrete knowledge

As ACI begins its second century of advancing concrete knowledge, its original chartered purpose
remains to provide a comradeship in finding the best ways to do concrete work of all kinds and in
spreading knowledge. In keeping with this purpose, ACI supports the following activities:

Technical committees that produce consensus reports, guides, specifications, and codes.

Spring and fall conventions to facilitate the work of its committees.

Educational seminars that disseminate reliable information on concrete.

Certification programs for personnel employed within the concrete industry.

Student programs such as scholarships, internships, and competitions.

Sponsoring and co-sponsoring international conferences and symposia.

Formal coordination with several international concrete related societies.

Periodicals: the ACI Structural Journal and the ACI Materials Journal, and Concrete International.

Benefits of membership include a subscription to Concrete International and to an ACI Journal. ACI
members receive discounts of up to 40% on all ACI products and services, including documents, seminars
and convention registration fees.

As a member of ACI, you join thousands of practitioners and professionals worldwide who share a
commitment to maintain the highest industry standards for concrete technology, construction, and
practices. In addition, ACI chapters provide opportunities for interaction of professionals and practitioners
at a local level.

American Concrete Institute

38800 Country Club Drive
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
U.S.A.
Phone: 248-848-3700
Fax: 248-848-3701
www.concrete.org
 Guide for Conducting a Visual Inspection
of Concrete in Service

The AMERICAN CONCRETE INSTITUTE

was founded in 1904 as a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to public
service and representing the user interest in the field of concrete. ACI gathers and
distributes information on the improvement of design, construction and
maintenance of concrete products and structures. The work of ACI is conducted by
individual ACI members and through volunteer committees composed of both
members and non-members.

The committees, as well as ACI as a whole, operate under a consensus format,

which assures all participants the right to have their views considered. Committee
activities include the development of building codes and specifications; analysis of
research and development results; presentation of construction and repair
techniques; and education.

Individuals interested in the activities of ACI are encouraged to become a member.

There are no educational or employment requirements. ACIs membership is
composed of engineers, architects, scientists, contractors, educators, and
representatives from a variety of companies and organizations.

Members are encouraged to participate in committee activities that relate to their

specific areas of interest. For more information, contact ACI.

www.concrete.org

American Concrete Institute
Advancing concrete knowledge