Inspection and diagnosis system of ETICS on walls

This paper describes an expert knowledge-based system for ETICS (External Thermal Insulation Composite System) on walls, which enables facilitating and standardising inspection, diagnosis and repair of ETICS. The system includes specific tools that provide information to aid in the analysis of degraded ETICS and lead to the preparation of solid and reliable reports. Types of anomalies, their related causes, auxiliary tests to be performed in situ and repair techniques applicable to ETICS systems are listed and classified. The relation between these parametres is expressed through correlation matrices, validated and adjusted through data obtained from inspections carried out on a sample of 146 facades with ETICS cladding. The relevant descriptive information is gathered in individual files for evey anomaly, plus diagnosisaiding method, and maintenance and repair techniques. Additional statistical analysis was performed, leading to conclusions on the most sensitive aspects of this system. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.