First results on the combination of laser scanner and drilling resistance tests for the assessment of the geometrical condition of irregular cross-sections of timber beams

Old timber structures often present damaged elements with irregular cross-sections, hidden surfaces and even with loss of material due to decay. Within that scope, in this paper, a new methodology based on the combination of laser scanner and drilling resistance tests is proposed and developed with the aim of analyzing the apparent and resistant sections of timber beams with hidden surfaces and irregular cross-section affected by decay. The proposed methodology was initially calibrated with tests made on a timber beam within a laboratory environment and, then, its feasibility was tested on a case study regarding the timber roof of the Guimares Castle keep. The results confirm the suitability of this methodology for assessment of the present geometrical properties of timber elements with an average error of 1.5 and 4.5%, respectively, in the calculation of the apparent section area and inertia.