Analysis of main causes of defects of multi-storey reinforced concrete frame buildings

Multi-storey reinforced concrete frame buildings are widespread in Russia. Most of these buildings have braced frame system, where the main load-bearing elements are columns, beams and hollow floor slabs, and the spatial rigidity is provided by additional diaphragms, staircase and elevator section. Such buildings are easy to design and build and are quite multifunctional in purpose. The article on the basis of the authors’ experience in the survey examines the main defects in such buildings. The causes of typical defects can be divided into objective, technological and operational reasons. Usually, the cause of survey can be structural damage discovered by the building owner that is why often the survey is conducted during the emergency condition, which can be avoided, if inspections and monitoring of the structures technical state are regular. Also there is a necessity of improving the design methods of new buildings and strengthening of existing ones.