Application of Non-Destructive Testing Methods for the Assessment and Prediction of Wooden Roof Truss Serviceability

This report presents the application of non-destructive testing (NDT) methods for the condition assessment and serviceability evaluation of timber roof structures. The work focuses on identifying degradation mechanisms, particularly moisture-related damage, and assessing their impact on structural performance through in-situ measurements.

Two real-world case studies, located in Werdau and Berlin-Pankow, are analysed using a combination of manual inspection techniques and continuous sensor-based monitoring to capture environmental conditions and material behaviour over time. The results demonstrate that continuous monitoring enables the observation and interpretation of moisture-related degradation processes and supports a more informed assessment of structural condition compared to conventional visual inspection methods.

The integration of inspection data with time-dependent environmental measurements provides a more comprehensive understanding of structural behaviour under real operating conditions. The main objective of this work is to establish a data-driven basis for evaluating the current condition of timber elements and to support their future integration into predictive lifecycle assessment frameworks.

The approach contributes to improved maintenance strategies, supports life extension of building components, and aligns with the development of digital tools for circular construction within the REINCARNATE project.