Forensic Engineering in Spokane County, WA

Every core and sample is labeled, photographed in place, and logged at time of extraction. A chain-of-custody form travels with the sample from field collection through laboratory receipt and testing. This documentation records who handled the sample, when, and under what conditions—preserving evidentiary integrity required if findings are later presented in dispute resolution or litigation proceedings.

Distinguishing the two typically requires petrographic examination of concrete cores per ASTM C856, which can identify air-void system adequacy, paste microcracking patterns consistent with freeze-thaw attack, and the presence or absence of chemical reaction products associated with chloride exposure. The air-void spacing factor and specific surface, documented through petrography, are central to differentiating environmental deterioration from material or mix deficiency.

Investigation typically begins with condition documentation—crack mapping, survey data, and photographic record—before any disturbance. We then collect soil samples from behind and beneath the wall for classification and, where appropriate, shear-strength testing per ASTM D3080 or D6528. Concrete cores from the wall itself may be extracted and tested. A licensed engineer reviews all findings to assess whether the failure origin lies in design, construction, drainage, or soil behavior.

Field work in Spokane County is dispatched through the Seattle, WA regional hub, about 228 miles away. Laboratory testing is performed in Sugar Land, TX under chain of custody, or in a mobile laboratory mobilized to large Spokane County projects.

Field sampling and testing in Spokane County are performed by our ACI- and NICET-certified technicians. Forensic engineering and professional services are delivered with professionals licensed in Washington, coordinated under one proposal.