The following is from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

MINOR DAMAGE:

  • Checks (cracks) Splits, and gouges less than ½-inch wide; or
  • Evidence of marine borers or fungal decay.
Minor damage reverts to the next highest rating if you see: 
  • Loss of cross section;
  • Marine borer infestation; or
  • Displacement, loss of bearing, or failed connections.

MODERATE DAMAGE

  • Remaining diameter loss up to 15%;
  • Checks and splits wider than 1/20-inch;
  • Cross section area loss up to 25%; or
  • Evidence of marine borers or fungal decay, with loss of section.
Moderate damage reverts to the next highest rating if you see: 
  • Displacement, loss of bearing, or failed connections.

MAJOR DAMAGE

  • Remaining diameter loss 15% - 30%;
  • Checks and splits through full depth of cross section;
  • Cross section loss 25% - 50%;
  • Heavily corroded hardware; or
  • Displacement and misalignment at connections.
Moderate damage reverts to the next highest rating if you see: 
  • Partial or complete breakage.

SEVERE DAMAGE

  • Remaining diameter less than 30%;
  • Loss of connections and/or fully non-bearing condition;
  • Partial or complete breakage