Learning from the past to improve future practice

Various forensic studies have been carried out over the past 40 years into the historic through-life performance of the world's structures and building fabric. This has provided a comprehensive understanding of deterioration mechanisms, yet design and construction activities continue to be a fundamental source of deficiencies. This paper reviews the studies of through-life performance of buildings and concrete structures and associated remedial interventions. Based on these studies, a number of potential approaches are suggested to improve future practice and achievement.