This informal CPD article focusing on concrete repair and BS EN 1504 was provided by Mapei.
Introduction to BS EN 1504
Damage to concrete structures can arise from a wide range of factors, including overloading, fire damage, blast damage and natural events such as earthquakes. But it is often the result of poor specification, design or construction, leading to the corrosion of embedded steel or chemical damage. Common symptoms include the growth of black-coloured rust, cracking and spalling. There is also a commonly held but false belief that the problem can be solved if the deteriorated material is removed and replaced with any type of repair mortar.
The British and European standard BS EN 1504 “Products and systems for the repair and protection of concrete structures – definitions, requirements, quality control and evaluation of conformity” defines appropriate procedures and characteristics of products used to repair, maintain and protect concrete structures. The main aim of the standard is to provide a valid instrument to correctly identify problems and optimise repair operations.
Within BS EN 1504 there are various sections covering elements of concrete repair, such as quality control, testing and materials. The key parts are:
- BS EN 1504-8, which sets out testing and compliance definitions for manufacturers
- BS EN 1504-9, which sets out specification guidelines
- BS EN 1504-10, which sets out material application guidelines for contractors
Important steps to concrete repair
One of the most important steps in any concrete repair is to diagnose why the structure needs to be repaired, to ensure that once the building has been repaired it will remain in a sound condition for the rest of its life. This CPD in Construction outlines how to identify concrete corrosion and diagnose the root causes, as well as explaining how BS EN 1504 can help specifiers to adopt appropriate repair principles and methods.
It is important to take part 9 into consideration before any other part of the standard. This defines principles and methods for protecting and repairing concrete structures that have suffered, or may suffer, damage or deterioration, and offers a guide in professional development by selecting products and systems suitable for their intended use.
We hope this article on Concrete Repair and BS EN 1504 was helpful. For more information from Mapei please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively please visit the CPD Industry Hubs to find courses, events and providers suitable for your Continuing Professional Development.
