Evaluating existing timber piers after Katrina 1

[Provolone]

I have been asked by an Architect to evaluate the piers and slab of a house that was ripped off as a result of Hurricane Katrina. The homeowner is planning on building the same house.
The slab looks pretty intact, as the timbers piers do. any suggestions?

 

[Bagman2524]

Dig around the slab/piers, dust them off real good and check for cracking or spalling. If you want something more thourough there are various ultrasonic tests you can do, including the basic tap on concrete with hammer and listen for hollow sound.

 

[Provolone]

Bagman,

I appreciate the advice, however I can not dig around the piers since there is a slab (kind of like a mat foundation) which I am assuming the homeowner was using to park cars.

That was the slab I was referring to in my message. If you would like I could send you a photo? I am actually evaluating this case from photos.

Thanks

 

[scottiesei]

I don't think I would rely on photos for something of this nature. Don't forget, someone is going to be living on these things! I would be more concerend with the piers rather than the slab if it is only used for parking. I would think that there has to be a way to mechanically test the peirs. And if in doubt, throw it out!

 

[Provolone]

Scott,

I thank you for your suggestion, I will call a testing lab.