Assessment of Damages Caused by Expansive Soil on Buildings Constructed in Bahir Dar
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Date
2015-12
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
In this study it has been tried to assess the extent of damages caused by expansive soil on
buildings constructed in Bahir Dar. Seventy Eight buildings were randomly selected from 20
different expansive soil locations. The assessment showed that out of those 78 buildings
68(87%) of them are adversely affected. In most buildings more than one building components
are damaged. The damage has been analyzed and interpreted systematically with respect to type
of foundation, wall, floor, pavement, door, window and fence. The extent of damage is very
high on pavements and decreases when we proceed to walls, floors and foundation in their
respective orders.
The study showed that the main cause of failure is fluctuation of ground water table. In addition
to this poor surface drainage, presence of tress and vegetation close to buildings, damaged
utility lines and improper design also have great contributions.
Based on the causes of failures and other factors attempt was made to propose remedial
measures for already damaged buildings constructed in expansive soil locations of the study
area. In addition to this suitable foundation types and construction details have been also
proposed for new buildings to be constructed in these areas.
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Geotechnical Engineering