Grout Problem

[irishengdave]

Attached is a picture of a grouted baseplate. Our site rep is telling me the edges of the grout (microsil) are crumbling and have a honeycombed appearance. It can be broken up in your hand quite easily. Any ideas about what happened? I don't know if the strength has been compromised or not.

 

[KootK]

I don't have anything to offer regarding the cause but, among your other concerns, it also appears that the grout is not in contact with the underside of the base plate. Was a non-shrink / slightly expansive grout mix used? From what I can see of your base plate, this looks like a pretty serious application. I can see why you're concerned.

I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.

 

[Ron]

Don't see any honeycomb. Looks like the grout was placed wet (bleeding under side form). Consistent with the observed shrinkage away from baseplate.

Remove and replace. No other repair works.

 

[RPMG]

You have to assume that the strength has been compromised, along with bearing, durability, and aesthetics. It shouldn't be a huge issue to replace.

 

[TehMightyEngineer]

Yeah, if it's a easily broken as you imply the demo should be easy. Demo, replace, all good.

Professional and Structural Engineer (ME, NH)
American Concrete Industries

http://www.americanconcrete.com