Evaluating cracks in concrete walls

For every crack in a concrete wall a trained investigator should record, with photographs and sketches, the location on the building, the pattern, the length and width, the depth, the age, and whether the crack is active or dormant. Based on this information, the investigator can assess the cause of the crack, how harmful the crack is, and how best to repair it, if repair is deemed necessary. The location and pattern of cracks are the most important factors in determining their cause. To measure crack width, most investigators use a crack comparator, although a graduated magnifying device is more accurate.