Types Of Cracks In Buildings And When To Raise Alarm Before Tragedy Strikes

The recent tragic structural collapse of a building in Uthiru, Nairobi, has once again highlighted the importance of recognising and addressing structural issues in buildings.

According to preliminary reports by the National Construction Authority (NCA), the 5-storey building caved in when ground floor columns failed by buckling, resulting in ground floor (parking) and first floor (housing units) being sandwiched by upper floors that had their structural frame remain intact.

As established during our site visit, an engineer had been consulted after cracks were observed earlier that day and had assured that the building was safe. At the time of the collapse, occupants were awaiting a second opinion from a different professional.

While some cracks may be superficial and harmless, others can be indicators of more serious underlying structural problems that, if left unaddressed, can lead to catastrophic structural failures.

Cracks occur under different circumstances, and their significance depends on various factors, including their location, width, pattern, and cause.

Here are some common types of cracks and their potential implications:

Hairline cracks

These are thin, barely visible cracks that often appear in plaster or concrete surfaces due to shrinkage or minor movements.

While they may not pose an immediate threat, they should be monitored for any potential widening or propagation.

Diagonal cracks

Diagonal cracks in walls or columns can be a sign of structural distress, often caused by differential settlement or lateral forces, such as earthquakes or vehicle impact.

Stepped cracks

Stepped cracks, which follow a stair-like pattern, are commonly associated with foundation issues, such as differential settlement or soil movement.

Horizontal cracks:

Horizontal cracks in walls or beams can be indicators of significant structural problems, such as overloading or inadequate reinforcement.

While it is not always easy for occupants to accurately assess the severity of cracks, staying proactive about building safety is crucial to prevent potential disasters.

Regular visual inspections of the building should be conducted, paying close attention to walls, ceilings, and structural elements. Any cracks or signs of distress should be documented, and their progression monitored over time.

If cracks or structural issues are noticed, it is essential to seek advice from qualified professionals, such as structural engineers or building inspectors.

Do not rely solely on assurances from potentially biased parties, such as landlords or contractors with vested interests, as their judgment may be clouded by financial considerations.

Promptly reporting identified structural problems to the appropriate authorities, such as the National Construction Authority (NCA) or the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) through the Mulika Mjengo reporting platform, is crucial.

Timely action can help prevent further deterioration and potential disasters. Ignoring or delaying the reporting of structural concerns can have catastrophic consequences.

In cases where structural integrity is severely compromised, it may be necessary to evacuate the building until it can be thoroughly assessed and repaired.

Having an evacuation plan in place and following the instructions of authorities and professionals is paramount.

Prioritising safety over convenience is essential when a building's structural integrity is in question.

It is also essential for building owners, developers, and authorities to prioritise public safety, adhere to building codes and regulations, and respond swiftly to reported structural concerns.

Remember, when it comes to building safety, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

The article was written by Mary Ngaruiya, advocacy officer, AAK and Eng. Nashon Tambo civil engineer.

The views expressed here are the writer’s and do not in any way represent the position of TUKO.co.ke.

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Uthiru collapsed building (l). Right frame shows a cracked wall.

Hairline crack are sometimes barely visible.

Diagonal cracks on building.