Preventive and curative measures in heritage buildings due to settlements risk with consequent degradation of their masonry walls

Abstract

The foundations movements can be a cause of anomalies in affected buildings. Such situations can have particularly negative implications for heritage buildings that represent a particular cultural and historical value that matters to preserve. This article intends to present study methodologies for the implementation of preventive and curative measures in existing Heritage Buildings with reinforced concrete structure or mixed structure of reinforced concrete and masonry walls, specifically focusing on the risks of foundation settlements that, in particular, can cause cracking in masonry walls. Foundation settlements that are considered here relate, especially, to those resulting from the execution of geotechnical works, in the building itself or in its neighbourhood. Methodologies are presented to estimate and limit the damage. Strategies for repair and rehabilitation of walls and reinforcement of foundations of buildings are also presented.