Bridge Inspection

Bridge inspection Houston process starts with the bridge inspectors reviewing the previous bridge inspection report. They then plan the inspection. The inspectors identify areas where defects were found in previous inspections. This allows to determine if the defects previously identified have been repaired or have increased in size and severity. The inspectors coordinate traffic control and access equipment.

When the inspectors arrive at the bridge site to perform a bridge inspection, they observe the bridge from a distance. some major problems may be indicated if the profile of the bridge is not smooth, in other words, the bridge will not look right to the experienced bridge inspector. The inspectors will then concentrate on discovering the cause and determining the extent of the problem. Depending on the exact nature of the problem emergency repair or immediate closure of the bridge may be required.

This inspectors use a systematic method to inspect the bridge, to ensure that the entire bridge is inspected. The exact order of the inspection will vary depending on the type of the bridge being inspected. The deck is the riding surface for traffic . The deck surface and roadway barrier or parapet are looked at for potholes, cracking, excessive wear, and sounded for hollow areas.The deck joints are looked at for evidence of seepage, loose armour angles and if the deck joints are properly functioning to allow expansion and contraction as temperature changes.

Bridge Inspection For Timber Bridges.

Timber members are inspected for wood rot, crushing, splitting and cracking. Concrete members are inspected for cracking, splitting and hollow areas. (Splitting is where a portion of the concrete has fallen away leaving a hole in the concrete.) Steel members are inspected for paint peeling, corrosion, and cracking. The bearings serve to transmit loads from the superstructure and allow the movement of the bridge that occur due to changes in temperature.

The bearings are inspected for excessive deformation and evidence that they are functioning properly. Thus allowing the movements of the bridge due to temperature change. The substructure supports the superstructure and transmits loads from the superstructure of the ground. The superstructure generally consists of pier caps, columns, and piles. The substructure may be constructed of timber, concrete or steel. Timber members are inspected for wood rot, crushing, splitting and cracking. Concrete members are inspected for cracking, splitting and hollow areas. Steel members are inspected for paint peeling, corrosing, and creaking. In addition, the substructure is inspected for evidence of settlement or scour. A undermining of a structure due to water flow removing soil which supports the structure.

The bridge inspectors actions will vary depending on their findings. The inspectors will recommend immediate closure or emergency repair of the bridge if a critical condition is found that endangers the public. The inspectors will recommend a repair be performed quickly when a situation will recommend routine repairs or maintenance to carrect defects that if not repaired could increase in size and severity and shorten the service life of the bridge.