Importance of Construction Testing

Contractors have to ensure any type of building or structure they build meets industry specific quality standards. All types of materials used in the construction must first undergo proper testing to ensure these items are suitable for the end product. The structure built by the contractor must be able to withstand the stress during use. Tests are carried out to check the properties of materials used in construction. The purpose is to ensure the construction does not pose safety, health and life risks to the users. Construction testing of materials can be done onsite or offsite in a laboratory. In a laboratory, the materials are put through different types of tests under controlled conditions. For more information, check this website.

A hard structure must meet safety and durability tests. Once the structure is put to use, it suffers different types of stress, strain and pressure. Tests before and during construction help determine if the structure will withstand such stress. Builders can know how long the constructed structure will last. There are a wide range of materials that are tested for this purpose. These materials can include concrete, grout, mortar, masonry, shotcrete, aggregates, reinforced steel and structural steel. Any material used in the construction can be tested.

Construction of any structure starts with soil testing. Tests are done to check compaction relationship, rock classification, particle size distribution, soil formation analysis, direct and triaxial shear, gravity, expansion, contraction, compressive strength, load bearing capacity, elongation, tensile strength and permeability. Soil testing ensures the structure is built at the right place and the foundation placed to the right depth. Construction testing helps identify any sinking issue that can arise due to the heavy weight of the structure on the ground. Contractors have to ensure there is no chance of cracks developing in the structure.

Construction testing is carried out to determine voids and loose bulk density. The water absorbing capacity helps identify any water seepage problem. Particle size identification is done to ensure the right size particle materials are used. Concrete which is a  mixture of many materials is used extensively in the construction of large structures. This mixture must be tested to check its drying shrinkage property. Materials are tested for abrasion and fragmentation. Presence of any unwanted mineral or chemical can lead to problems in the construction. Tests help identify such substances. It eliminates the chance of any structural defect developing in the structure.

Construction testing companies can carry out slip resistance testing. It is an important test which helps avoid slip and fall claims. This test is needed for all types of surfaces where concrete, ceramic, natural stone, glass, pavers, precast units, resin finishes or screed have been used. The surface roughness of the material is measured. At some places, contractors use recycled aggregates. These materials must be tested properly before being used.

Construction testing company can place onsite mobile laboratory in case of road construction works. They facilitate testing of soil, concrete, aggregates and asphalt items. Testing facility is provided according to the specific needs of the client. These companies are properly accredited by government agencies. The testing company helps its clients interpret the test results. The tests are carried out using latest technologies and equipments. Proper testing of construction materials can mean saving life in critical times. It helps build safe structures that do not pose risks to life, limb and properties. Construction companies are required by law to ensure such safety standards. We have covered most of the important information in this article, for further information, check out this website.