A concrete pour fails the 28-day compressive strength test. The test shows 2,800 psi when the specification requires 3,000 psi. What should be the contractor's first action?
Correct Answer
A) Order additional testing including core samples from the affected area
The first step should be additional testing including core samples to verify the actual in-place strength, as cylinder tests may not always represent the actual concrete strength in the structure due to various factors.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option B is correct because when cylinder tests fail, the first step should be to verify the actual in-place concrete strength through additional testing, particularly core samples. Cylinder tests can be affected by handling, curing conditions, and testing procedures that may not reflect the true strength of the concrete in the structure. Core samples provide a more accurate assessment of the actual structural concrete strength before making costly decisions about removal or replacement.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option C: Accept the concrete as the difference is less than 10%
Option D is premature because the contractor hasn't yet determined if the problem is with the concrete itself or with the testing procedures. Filing claims should only occur after proper investigation confirms the concrete supplier is at fault.
Option D: Immediately remove and replace all affected concrete
Option C is incorrect because accepting concrete below specification requirements is not acceptable, regardless of the percentage difference. The 10% variance mentioned has no basis in building codes or standards for concrete acceptance.
Memory Technique
Think 'CORE before CHORE' - get CORE samples before doing the CHORE of removal and replacement
Reference Hint
ACI 318 Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete, Chapter 26 - Strength Evaluation of Existing Structures, and Florida Building Code Chapter 19 - Concrete
More Contract Admin Questions
A project experiences a 30-day delay due to unusually severe weather. The contract includes a liquidated damages clause of $1,000 per day for delays. If the weather delay is excusable but not compensable, what liquidated damages apply?
A commercial project requires a total of 12 inspections. The building department charges $85 per inspection for the first 5 inspections, $65 for inspections 6-10, and $45 for any additional inspections. What is the total inspection fee?
What document must be posted at the job site before a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued for a commercial building?
A mixed-use development requires a variance for reduced setbacks. The property is located within 500 feet of a hospital. What additional consideration must be addressed?
A LEED project requires tracking of regional materials. Materials are considered regional if they are extracted, harvested, or recovered, as well as manufactured within what distance of the project site?
An indemnification clause in a construction contract typically requires the contractor to:
A property owner wants to convert a single-family home into a duplex in an area zoned for single-family residential use. The conversion meets all building codes but violates density requirements. What approval is needed?
As-built drawings are typically required to be submitted:
AIA Document A401 is primarily used for:
A general contractor is building a 12,000 square foot commercial warehouse. The building permit fee is calculated at $8.50 per $1,000 of construction value. If the project value is $2,400,000, what is the building permit fee?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Project Management
60 questions · 70% to pass