Concrete cancer, also known as concrete deterioration, is a common problem that can cause serious damage to buildings and other structures. It is caused by the oxidation of reinforcing steel, which is inserted into concrete to reinforce its strength. This oxidation process can be accelerated by water penetration, calcium stalactites, and cracking of the concrete. Fortunately, there are several treatments available for concrete cancer.
The most common treatment is to saw off the perimeter of the repair area and remove the edges of the concrete around the reinforcing steel. This is followed by chiseling away any cracked or chipped concrete to reveal the steel inside. The steel is then cleaned and corrosion-free using different techniques. If the damage caused by concrete cancer is moderate, you may be able to remove damaged concrete, clean and replace oxidized and exposed steel, and fill in cracks.
For more severe cases of water penetration, a polymer-modified repair system may be used. This method starts by removing the concrete around the affected area and cleaning up the rusted steel. Then, a steel primer is applied and a polymer-modified material is placed on top. An anti-carbonation sealant is also placed over the entire surface of the concrete to reinforce its strength.
Chemical water repellency can be added to the concrete surface itself by applying Resistain, a waterproofing sealant for concrete. In some cases, electrochemical treatment may be used for near-ocean properties or simply removing damaged concrete, cleaning or removing affected steel, and replacing with new material. In addition to these treatments, an anti-carbonation coating or other specialized coating may be applied to strengthen and preserve the concrete. It's important to watch for telltale signs that your building may be affected by concrete cancer, such as calcium stalactites on the underside of concrete slabs or cracking that accelerates the process by exposing more steel. Repairing and filling small cracks will help stop the spread of concrete cancer, but the key to a successful remedy is timely, professional identification and treatment. Prepare the surface to be treated by cleaning any dirt, dirt, mold or foreign matter from the concrete.
Resistain is an advanced liquid waterproofing sealant that is applied to concrete surfaces with a brush, roller or spray. Most importantly, they can be a danger to people and other property if large chunks of concrete break down and fall from a building. Concrete cancer can occur at any time, so it's important to take preventive measures such as waterproofing flat roofs with Resistain or applying an anti-carbonation coating to strengthen and preserve your building's concrete surfaces. If you suspect that your building may have concrete cancer, it's important to seek professional help as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage.
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