Introduction to building pathology -- Principles of building diagnostics -- Basic investigative methodology -- Diagnostic techniques and tools -- Deterioration mechanisms -- Durability and service life assessment -- Moisture -- Foundations -- Floors, floor finishes and DPMs -- Walls and DPCs -- Cladding -- Doors and windows -- Roofs -- Services -- Failure patterns and control

Provides guidance on this work for typical residential, commercial and industrial buildings - with advice on how to diagnose a wide range of defects with an emphasis on evidence based practice throughout. It considers both modern and older construction methods, together with new and traditional materials. The particular problems of alteration and renovation work are also discussed. The first four chapters provide information and guidance on the methodology for investigating failures - how to prepare for and conduct an investigation into a building defect and subsequently diagnose its cause in a logical manner.