Preventive maintenance in roads and buildings

Preventive maintenance is planned inspection and treatment carried out while an asset is still in good condition, to prevent faults and slow deterioration. It is important because it reduces cost and keeps the asset safe and serviceable.

Importance in roads

• Sealing cracks and fog or surface treatment keep water out of the pavement and avoid potholes and base failure.
• Cleaning and repairing side drains, culverts and cross drainage before monsoon prevents washouts and slope failures.
• Timely resurfacing costs much less than reconstruction.
• It gives a smooth, safe ride, which lowers vehicle operating cost and accident risk.
• Roadside slope care, bioengineering, and shoulder repair protect the road in hill areas of Nepal.

Importance in buildings

• Repainting and waterproofing protect walls and roofs from moisture and corrosion.
• Servicing electrical, plumbing and drainage systems prevents fire, leakage and service failure.
• Early repair of cracks and spalling protects the reinforcement and structure.
• It keeps the building safe, and keeps its value and appearance.
• It reduces emergency repair cost and interruptions in use.

Types of maintenance

1. Routine maintenance (regular small jobs).
2. Preventive / periodic maintenance (planned at intervals).
3. Corrective or breakdown maintenance (after failure).
4. Emergency maintenance (immediate repair after disaster).
5. Predictive / condition-based maintenance.
6. Rehabilitation / major repair.