The Providence Road Bridge was retrofitted 8 years ago in June 2013 . The two galleries below show the before and after of the bridge.
This assessment lists findings of how the the bridge has aged in the past 8 years, and how we can learn about design, construction and maintenance of future timber structures by examining how they are aging.
1. Decay of Deck Support
Objective Evidence of Degradation: Here the top of the vertical member supporting the railing was left unprotected. The column is cracking and is allowing water to seem into the bright wood.
Long Term Consequences: Left unaddressed the humidity and moisture will seep into the member leading to fungal decay.
Root Cause: The design overlooked the need for adequate drainage on the vertical members.
Immediate Correction: Install a cap similar to a newel post cap.
Long Term Corrective Action: Apply a fumigant (Borate) to kill fungus and pests, apply wood filler.
2. Fungal & Lichen Growth on Railing
Objective Evidence of Degradation: Here the top of the railing shows growth of lichen and possibly fungus.
Objective Evidence of Degradation:
Long Term Consequences:
Root Cause:
Immediate Correction: TBD
Long term Corrective Action: TBD