Field Judgment and Structural Repair in RCC Crack Diagnosis: Integrating Expertise with Remedial Action

Crack diagnosis and repair decisions in RCC structures are often shaped by experienced engineers’ field judgment rather than formal classifications alone. This study draws on diagnostic insights from 40 cracked buildings in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, using a hybrid dataset that integrates empirical testing with interpretive interviews. The analysis explores how crack type, recurrence risk, and observed severity influence remedial strategies such as epoxy grouting, slab repair, and structural strengthening. Chi-square tests validate that crack type alone does not predict the need for structural reinforcement, while recurrence risk shows significant association with long-term repair proposals. The study affirms the diagnostic value of experiential logic in engineering decision-making and proposes a Decision Integration Matrix to guide responsive, evidencebased repair planning.