UFC 4-150-07
19 June 2001
When appropriate, visual inspection should be documented with still
photography and closed-circuit television. Still photography provides the
necessary high definition required for detailed analysis, while video provides a
continuous view of the inspection. All photographs should be numbered and
labeled with a brief description of the subject. A slate or other designation
identifying the subject should appear in the photograph. Video tapes should be
provided with a title and lead-in describing what is on the tape. The description
should include the inspection method used, the nature and size of the structure
being inspected, and any other pertinent information.
5-4
INSPECTION OF TIMBER STRUCTURES
5-4.1
Scoping the Problem. Timber damage is caused by:
Fungal rot
Marine borer and insect attack
Shrinkage
Overloading
Connector Corrosion
Abrasion
Ice Lift
These are described in detail in Chapter 3. Typical damage found is
illustrated in Figures 5-6, 5-7, 5-8, and 5-9.
Waterfront deterioration and damage is found by walking the pier, by
inspecting dolphins and below pier decks in a small boat or barge, and by
underwater inspections.
When inspecting above the water, the inspector should take maximum
advantage of low tide conditions in order to visually inspect the overall condition
of the piling. This may determine that an underwater inspection is necessary. The
underwater inspection should, on the other hand, take advantage of high water
conditions in order to compile the most comprehensive field data on existing
conditions.
5-4.2
Surface Inspections. Use Figure 5-10, "Timber Structures and
Attachments (Above Water) Checklist" to ensure that a thorough inspection of all
timber structures and their attachments above water is done. Include annual load
testing of the pier decking if heavy equipment or vehicles are driven onto the pier.
Sampling equipment and inspection data to be compiled are in Table 5-4.
5-15
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