Title:
Strategies to Teach Concrete Repair
Author(s):
Kyle A. Riding, Lawrence Kahn, David Lange
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
367
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
70-80
Keywords:
Concrete, repair, failure investigations, non-destructive testing, case studies, teaching, assessment, case studies, site visits
DOI:
10.14359/51750593
Date:
3/1/2026
Abstract:
Concrete repair is a growing industry that requires trained professionals that can correctly diagnose causes of concrete structural distress and design durable repairs. Concrete repairs often fail because of either an incorrect diagnosis of the distress cause or improper repair design. Education and training in fundamentals of concrete structural evaluation methods and repair design principles can significantly improve the service life of concrete structures. Repurposing and rehabilitation of concrete structures is most often much more sustainable than constructing new structures. This paper gives an example of course learning objectives and course outline for a concrete repair course. Teaching resources available, with an emphasis on relevant free student and teacher resources through ACI to enrich the course curriculum, are also given. For example, ways to integrate the ACI 562 “Code Requirements for Assessment, Repair, and Rehabilitation of Existing Concrete Structures and Commentary” into the curriculum is given. This paper also describes how to integrate case studies into the course curriculum, both through discussion and for practice in design. Lessons learned from past experiences teaching repair are also given.
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