Can fire-damaged concrete be saved or is total replacement the only option?

Join Concrete Science on-site as we investigate several fire-affected structures.

This field video follows a real-world investigation of three fire-damaged structures, highlighting the role of forensic engineering in evaluating foundations, parking structures, and stem walls. See how testing, experience, and judgment intersect in post-fire assessments.

• Structure 1: Residential Home with Tall Concrete Concrete Walls

  This structure featured large concrete walls exposed to intense fire, with visible surface spalling and exposed rebar indicating potential steel degradation. While much of the concrete may be salvageable, petrographic analysis is required to determine the depth of fire damage, and reinforcement steel must be tested for tensile strength loss. Partial wall removal and targeted repair may be viable depending on these findings.

• Structure 2: Multi-Story Apartment over a Concrete Parking Structure

  Although the apartment structure above was destroyed, the concrete parking garage appeared largely undamaged from below. There was no visible fire damage to the columns, beams, or slab underside, but the top slab had been exposed to sustained heat from burning debris. Once debris is cleared, slab testing for deflection and spalling will determine repair needs. The structure is a strong candidate for in-place rehabilitation, offering significant cost savings over replacement.

• Structure 3: Standard Residential Foundation with Stem Walls

  This is a typical home foundation with short stem walls and shallow footings. The foundation was badly compromised, with visible damage to the stem walls and severely bent anchor bolts. Reusing this foundation would lead to significant construction delays and risks. Full replacement was recommended due to the poor condition, practical construction limitations, and compromised seismic reliability.