Markov chains are commonly used for performance assessment of deteriorating components and systems.The rate of transition from one state to another is constant over time for homogeneous Markov chains.Kato et al.(2009) applied the Markov model to the life-cycle reliability estimate of the superstructures of RC jetties.Recently,Saydam et al.(2013) presented a methodology for quantifying lifetime risk of bridge superstructures.In their model,a scenario-based approach integrating the Pontis element condition rating system into risk assessment procedure was used to identify expected losses,and a Markov process was applied to estimate the deterioration level of bridge components regarding the transition between the condition states.Compared with reliability analysis of RC structures using hazard associated with environmental stressors and material deterioration models (e.g.Akiyama et al.2010),Markov model provides significant time efficiency in life-cycle reliability analysis.