Concrete Cancer, often identified by flaking concrete (concrete spalling) or rust stains which originate deep within the concrete is a serious problem. Often people mistake the signs for weathering caused by the elements, but whilst this may have a part in exacerbating the problem, the real problem lies within the concrete itself.

Concrete cancer is caused by rusted reinforcing from within the steel. As steel rusts it can expand up to 7 times its original size causing the surrounding concrete to be displaced. As the steel pushes the concrete away, more water gets to the steel expediting the process.

The process can start in many ways, but generally it is due to one of the following:

• Poorly treated reinforcing steel being used in the original pour of the slab
• The ends of reinforcing being too close to the surface allowing water to seep through concrete and react with the steel
• Incompatible metals being used in close proximity to each other, thus causing a reaction
• Fractures in the concrete allowing water to penetrate the concrete and react with the steel

Spalled concrete is an eye-sore, but more than that it can cause a safety hazard. If pieces of concrete are left untreated they can fall from heights riskig the lives of passers-by below. Concrete cancer and delaminated concrete should be treated immediately as deffering the treatment will inevitably lead to increased problems into the future. Similarly treating the visual aspects such as rendering over the steel are short term solutions as the rusting process will continue below the surface causing the steel to again displace the concrete and in some cases rust so badly the steel eventually needs replacement.

Remedial with over 40 years corporate experience have knowledgable staff who can help ascertain where underlying issues and problems stem from. Once found we will begin the process of concrete repair by removing all drummy concrete, grinding back the reinforcing steel to remove all rust, treating the steel with anti-corrosives and then reinstating the render to restore the original facade.

If you would like any more information on concrete cancer, or would like to arrange someone to help solve your concrete problems, whatever the nature, please contact your closest head office today. Or for more information, please download our latest brochure.