The Development of a diagnostic model for the deterioration of external wall tiles of aged buildings in Taiwan

Abstract

This study creates a deterioration diagnostic model for the external wall tiles of aged buildings, using both stage 1 and stage 2 diagnostic methods. The visual test results are categorized based on their impact on public safety, and renovation strategies are proposed. The stage 1 diagnosis mainly adopts the D.E.R. visual inspection the deterioration assessment method. After producing an external wall tile Condition Indicator (CI) for the stage 1 diagnostic results that fall in a gray area, this research performed a stage 2 diagnosis using a tap tone test, followed by a fast Fourier transform and pattern recognition to analyze the tapping results. Finally, this study provides deterioration evaluation criteria for external wall tile replacement recommendations and a standard operating procedure for the deterioration diagnosis. This study also suggest directions for the future amendment of regulations and provide a basis of references for the government in determining urban renewal, renovation and maintenance strategies.