Concrete is one of the most widely used building materials in the world, but it can also be vulnerable to damage. Concrete cancer, also known as concrete chipping, is a condition that occurs when steel reinforcement inside a concrete slab begins to rust. As the steel oxidizes, it expands and displaces the surrounding concrete, causing it to become brittle and crack. This process can be accelerated by external factors such as chloride corrosion in salt water or extreme weather, as well as construction defects, poor quality concrete, and insufficient concrete cover.
If you have detected signs of concrete cancer in your building, it is important to consult a professional and get advice on the type of repair work that needs to be done. The simplest treatment of cancer with concrete is to repair the areas of concrete that are damaged, rather than completely removing the concrete and having to replace the entire wall. However, it is also important to take preventive steps to prevent it from happening again. Concrete waterproofing is essential to prevent water from corroding steel beams.
Consider high-quality waterproofing options such as Wolfin or Cosmofin waterproofing membranes to seal new horizontal concrete surfaces. This minimizes the risk of future water damage and prevents harsh chemicals that contaminate the concrete from entering through the pores. You should also have the concrete sealed regularly to protect it against water damage and wear and tear. Diamond Cut Concrete offers a 24-hour customer service line and can provide you with a quote in one day. They can also provide specialized solutions that cover structural remediation of concrete, steel or wood.
In some cases, experts may recommend the use of additional reinforcing steel anodes before applying new concrete, or the steel could be replaced in severe cases. With increased exposure to the elements, untreated concrete parts can fall out of the structure over time. Flat concrete roofs are particularly vulnerable to leaks and water-driven concrete cancer if they are not properly waterproofed. Also look for bubbling concrete plaster and roof leaks, internal wall leaks, or outwardly expanding concrete. Concrete cancer can be a serious problem if left untreated. Repairing severely damaged concrete can cost thousands of dollars, so it may not be cost-effective compared to replacing it.
However, with proper maintenance and preventive measures, you can ensure that your building remains safe and structurally sound for years to come.
Leave a Comment