4 Types of Cracks in R.C.C Columns

Cracks are developed in R.C.C columns in different types based on the loading and exposure conditions to which it is subjected. These conditions make columns prone to cracking because of their incorrect design and construction, overloading, corrosion exposure, foundation settlement, and creep or shrinkage issues.

The column is one of the important load-carrying members in a structure, and when subjected to cracks, results in serious problems of stability, durability, and aesthetics of the whole structure. So, early identification and correction is the remedial action to deal with concrete column cracks.

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1. Diagonal Cracks

Diagonal cracks in concrete columns when formed are observed on the entire face of the column along its height as shown in Fig.2 below. 

Fig.1. Diagonal Cracks in Concrete
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The formation of diagonal cracks questions the structural soundness of the concrete column and hence requires proper inspection and rehabilitation.

Diagonal cracks in R.C.C columns are caused due to:

1. Inadequate load-carrying capacity
2. Insufficient cross-section of the column
3. Inadequate reinforcement steel

2. Splitting Cracks

Split cracking is formed on the concrete column face, like short parallel vertical cracks with non-uniform width. 

Fig.3. Diagonal Cracks
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Splitting cracks are observed in concrete columns due to:

1. The insufficient load-carrying capacity of the column
2. Inadequate cross-section of the column to sustain the load action
3. Insufficient steel reinforcement
4. Low-quality concrete

3. Corrosion Cracks

Corrosion cracks in columns are developed along the line of longitudinal reinforcement. As shown, they appear as homogeneous lines and increase in width with age.

Fig.4. Corrosion Cracks
Image Credits: gestech.net

The main causes of corrosion cracks in concrete columns are:

1. Improper cover
2. Corrosion of reinforcement bar
3. Inadequate bond between the rebars and concrete

4. Horizontal Cracks

Horizontal cracks as shown in Fig.5, are observed mainly at the beam and column junction and also at the column face where, the tensile stress is large.

Fig.5. Horizontal Cracks at Column Beam Junction

Image Credits: Bilal S. Hamad, Research Gate

Horizontal cracks in columns are caused due to:

1. Inadequate moment resistance capacity
2. Insufficient reinforcement
3. Effect of shear force, direct load, and uniaxial bending
4. Disposition of installed reinforcement

Horizontal cracks if sustained would decrease the shear strength of the column which leads to great risk and failure of the structure. So, it requires immediate fixing.

Also Read:

1. How to Repair Shear Cracks in R.C.C Beams?
2. What are Concrete Cracks? How does It Cause?
3. Ultimate Guide on Structural & Non-Structural Cracks With Example