scope:

Purpose of maintenance

Maintenance activities are often more cost effective when the concrete is still in relatively good condition and is focused on those parts of a structure that face the most severe exposure conditions. Preventive maintenance addresses causes of the potential deterioration, as opposed to treatment, of the effects of deterioration. For example, sealing the deck surface reduces the infiltration of chloride. Proper preventive maintenance activities can reduce the rate of deterioration, extend service life, and reduce future repair costs (Carter 1989a). Responsive maintenance activities help to keep bridges operating safely and efficiently.