But first, What Is concrete spalling?
In short, Concrete spalling is the technical term which describes concrete which has been put under stress and has started to crack. this stress is most often caused by structural factors such as building movement or rust within the structural reinforcing. As steel rusts it expands within the concrete (it can expand up to 7 timees its original size) causing the concrete to swell and - given concrete is not flexible - crack. As it cracks it becomes brittle, allows moisture in which reacts with the steel further, accelerating the process.
Concrete spalling is also referred to as concrete cancer by many. The signs of spalling include:
- Crazing and cracking concrete
- Rust stains which seem to leak out from within the concrete
- Bubbling (also called Plating) of concrete render
- Drummy concrete. Concrete which appears solid, but when tapped shows evidence of air trapped behind it meaning it has started to delaminate (split into layers)
- Leaks which appear in overhead concrete surfaces
The dangers of concrete spalling
Concrete spalling – especially on the outside of a building – not only looks terrible, but it is potentially dangerous too. Over time, and with increased exposure to the elements, untreated pieces of concrete may fall from your structure. The risk is it falling and damaging property, or even worse, hitting a person walking below.
Why you Need Concrete Repair Experts
Many people (incorrectly) believe that a coat of paint, or in "more extreme" circumstances, replacing the affected concrete will suffice to fix the issues described above. Truth is though, that concrete repair requires more than tese aesthetic approaches. Whilst these approaches fix the visible signs, all they are doing is masking the real issues underneath. It is the same as putting a band-aid on a gravel rash without removing the debris first. You have treated the signs of trouble, but you are allowing the wound to fester and cause ongoing complications which require even more work.
Concrete repair requires a methodological approach to:
- Identify the visible signs
- Understand the underlying causes
- Develop a repair methodology which treats the issues and which ensures compatibility with any existing systems or materials
- Implementation of the repairs
- Ongoing supervision
- Guarantees as to the quality of work.
The Risks of Not Doing Concrete Repair Correctly
Like anything, there are risks in not doing something correctly the first time. With concrete cancer it is essential that you make the correct decisions and undertake the correct procedures the first time, as if you don't there can be ramifications inclusive of:
Large Residential, Commercial and Industrial Concrete Repair
If you have concerns your property requries concerete repair, contact us. We specialise in the repair of concrete for residential and commercial strata buildings, commercial buildings, and industrial complexes.