During construction, a builder discovers that the concrete foundation has cured with several honeycomb areas visible on the surface. What is the most appropriate remedial action according to Michigan construction standards?
Correct Answer
A) Remove defective concrete and patch with non-shrink grout
Honeycomb areas compromise structural integrity and must be removed and patched with appropriate repair materials to meet Michigan Building Code requirements.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Honeycombing — voids created by inadequate concrete consolidation — compromises structural integrity and moisture resistance. Michigan Building Code, consistent with ACI 301 repair standards, requires that defective concrete be completely removed and replaced with a structurally equivalent material. Non-shrink grout or hydraulic cement mortar properly bonds to the existing substrate, restores compressive strength, and prevents water infiltration. Simply covering the defect without removing it leaves compromised material in place.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: Cover with waterproofing membrane only
Applying a waterproofing membrane over honeycomb areas addresses moisture intrusion symptomatically but does nothing to restore the structural integrity of the affected concrete. The voids remain, leaving the foundation structurally deficient. This is a cosmetic fix for a structural problem.
Option C: Document the condition but take no corrective action
Documenting without corrective action is never acceptable when a structural defect is identified during active construction. Michigan Building Code requires defects to be corrected before work proceeds or is covered. Failure to correct documented defects exposes the contractor to liability for latent structural defects.
Option D: Apply a concrete sealer over the affected areas
Applying a concrete sealer over honeycomb areas is similar to option B — it addresses surface appearance and may limit moisture entry at the surface but cannot penetrate into and fill voids. The structural deficiency remains unaddressed and the sealer will eventually fail at the void boundaries.
Memory Technique
Think 'Remove and Replace, don't Wrap and Pray.' Honeycomb voids must be physically eliminated by cutting out the bad concrete and filling with non-shrink grout. Covering defects with membranes or sealers is always wrong on structural elements.
More mi-builder Questions
A residential foundation wall in Michigan is 8 feet high with 2 feet above grade. The backfill exerts lateral pressure of 30 psf per foot of depth. What is the maximum lateral pressure at the bottom of the foundation wall?
A builder discovers that the electrical service entrance was installed without proper permits. According to Michigan law, what is the most appropriate next step?
What is the maximum allowable span for a 2x8 floor joist (Grade 2 Douglas Fir) at 16" O.C. with 40 psf live load and 10 psf dead load according to Michigan Building Code span tables?
According to Michigan Building Code, what is the maximum height of a wood-framed bearing wall using 2x4 studs with standard construction?
A homeowner requests to convert a bedroom into a bathroom on the second floor. What is the primary Michigan code concern the builder must address?
According to Michigan plumbing regulations, what is the minimum pipe size required for a water service line serving a single-family residence?
A contractor is building a basement foundation wall that is 8 feet high and will retain 6 feet of soil. What is the minimum wall thickness required by the Michigan Building Code for poured concrete?
A homeowner wants to install a gas fireplace in their living room. The contractor notices the existing gas line is 1/2 inch black iron pipe. For a 40,000 BTU fireplace with a 25-foot run, is this pipe size adequate according to Michigan gas code?
During a framing inspection, the building official notes that the contractor used 2x4 studs at 24 inches on center for an exterior wall. According to Michigan Building Code, what is the maximum wall height allowed for this configuration?
A contractor is installing a beam to support floor joists. The beam must carry a total load of 8,000 pounds over a 12-foot span. If the allowable fiber stress for the lumber grade is 1,200 psi, what is the minimum required section modulus?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Contract Administration
60 questions · 70% to pass
Project Management
60 questions · 70% to pass
Related Study Resources
Previous Question
A residential plumbing rough-in requires a 3-inch drain pipe to be installed with a 2% slope. If the horizontal run is 25 feet, what is the total vertical drop required?
Next Question
A builder is constructing a house where the electrical service panel will be located in a basement with a concrete floor. What is the minimum working clearance width required in front of the panel according to Michigan electrical standards?