Last Updated on November 6, 2023 by asifa
Concrete spalling is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including weathering and age. Concrete can start to break down into small pieces, which is known as spalling. Spalled concrete can cause structural damage to buildings and other structures. Here are five warning signs of concrete spalling and what you can do to prevent or fix the problem:
Table of Contents
Section 1: What Is Concrete Spalling?
Concrete spalling is a deterioration of the concrete that can cause it to break into small pieces. It is most commonly caused by water damage and can occur when the concrete becomes saturated with water. The water causes the concrete to swell and then burst, causing the small pieces to fall off. Concrete spalling can be prevented by proper drainage and maintenance, but if it occurs, there are things you can do to fix it.
Section 3: What Causes Concrete Spalling?
When concrete begins to spall, tiny pieces of the material peel off in a radial fashion. The rate at which this occurs can be accelerated by various factors, including moisture, temperature changes, and air exposure.
If you notice concrete spalling on your property, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the issue. First, try to determine the cause. If it’s due to moisture infiltration or temperature fluctuations, correcting those conditions will likely solve the problem. If that’s not possible or if other factors are at play (like air exposure), then you’ll need to take more drastic measures.
One option is to seal off any openings that could allow air or moisture entry into the concrete. This could be done by caulking around windows and doors, installing weatherproofing materials around entrances, or using a roof sealant. Another option is to remove the spalled concrete and replace it with fresh concrete. This can be done by using a specialist concrete spalling repair company or by doing it yourself.
In some cases, repairing spalled concrete may not be possible or practical. In that case, you’ll need to cover the damage with a protective material until the repair can be made. This could be done with Bitumen Matting, which is a type of asphalt overlay that covers large areas. It’s available in various colours and textures to match your existing infrastructure, and it’s easily removable when the repairs are complete.
5 Warning Signs of Concrete Spalling
Concrete spalling is a deterioration of the surface of concrete that can result in disintegration and eventual removal of the concrete. The effects of spalling can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to weather, moisture, UV radiation, and chemicals.
1. Concrete that starts to peel, flake, or spall?
If you notice either of these signs happening to your concrete, it’s time to take action! The first sign is likely due to the concrete becoming sharper over time – this can be from weathering and exposure to the elements, so it’s important to maintain good upkeep on your concrete. If the edges or points on the concrete are becoming sharper, you may need to have them professionally sharpened. The second sign is when concrete starts peeling, flaking, or spalling – this can be a warning sign that there is something wrong with the structure of the concrete and may need repairs or replacement. If you notice either of these signs happening to your concrete, it’s important to get in touch with a qualified spalling concrete contractor as soon as possible.
2. Concrete that has cracks or holes?
Another sign that something may be wrong with your concrete is if you start noticing cracks or holes in it. If the concrete is starting to lose its structural integrity, there’s a good chance that it may also be weak enough to buckle or break under weight. This can lead to more serious damage, so it’s important to get in touch with a contractor as soon as possible if you notice any of these signs.
3. Concrete that is becoming spongy or weak?
If you notice that your concrete is becoming spongy or weak, it’s likely due to water damage. Over time, water can seep into the concrete and cause it to become soft and malleable. This can lead to cracks and other structural failures, so it’s important to get in touch with a contractor as soon as possible if you start seeing any of these signs.
4. Concrete that has started to turn an unusual colour?
If you notice that your concrete is starting to turn an unusual colour, it could be a sign that it’s contaminated with toxins or other chemicals. Over time, these substances can cause the concrete to change colour and become brittle. It’s important to get in touch with a contractor as soon as possible if you notice any of these signs.
5. Concrete that is becoming very soft or spongy?
If you notice that your concrete is becoming very soft or spongy, it could be a sign that it’s beginning to decompose. Over time, water can seep into the concrete and cause it to rot and become mushy. This can lead to cracks and other structural failures, so it’s important to get in touch with a contractor as soon as possible if you start seeing any of these signs.
Conclusion:
By understanding the symptoms and causes of concrete spalling, you can take steps to prevent this from happening in the first place. If you do experience concrete spalling, please contact a contractor as soon as possible to get the problem fixed.
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