5 Reasons You Need to Take Concrete Spalling Seriously
If you have a concrete driveway, patio, or any other surface that has been exposed to the weather over time, it is likely that you will start to see spalling. Spalling is the term used to describe the chipping and flaking of the concrete surface. It can be a serious problem, especially if left untreated. This article will discuss 5 reasons why you need to take concrete spalling seriously and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
What is spalling?
Concrete that has cracked and separated from the substrate is referred to as “spalling” in this context. Spalling can happen for a variety of reasons, including freeze-thaw cycling, the expanding effects of the Alkali-Silica Reaction, or exposure to fire. However, corrosion of embedded steel reinforcement bars or steel sections is the most frequent cause of spalling. Steel that is corroding an increase in volume by up to ten times, stressing the nearby concrete.
The naturally high alkalinity of concrete, where steel is embedded, helps prevent corrosion of the steel. High alkalinity offers protection against corrosion, but this protection can be reduced if acidic air gases enter the concrete, a process known as carbonation, or if salts are present in the concrete, usually from coastal settings or through the application of de-icing salts.
These impurities, along with oxygen and water, are the essential components for corrosion. Due to a combination of factors including age, maintenance, concrete quality, the depth of concrete cover, and regional environmental conditions, some concrete structures exhibit widespread spalling while others appear to be in good shape.
What Will Happen If My Concrete Is Spalling?
If your concrete is spalling, it means that the integrity of your surface is at risk. Spalled concrete can lead to a number of problems, including structural damage, reduced durability and safety hazards for anyone who comes into contact with it. It is therefore important to take action as soon as possible to address any issues with spalling in order to safeguard your property and keep everyone safe. There are several reasons why you should take concrete spalling seriously, including:
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Damage to the structural integrity of your property.
Spalled concrete can compromise the structural integrity of your building or driveway, making it more vulnerable to damage and deterioration. This can lead to costly repairs and even safety concerns if left untreated.
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Increased risk of flooding.
If spalling is allowed to progress unchecked, rainwater can seep into cracks in the concrete surface, resulting in potential flooding issues. This poses a serious risk not only for your property but also for your neighbors or other nearby buildings as well.
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Higher maintenance costs over time.
Not only does spalling require costly repairs, but it also requires ongoing maintenance in order to prevent further damage from occurring or worsening over time. As such, you may find yourself incurring significant additional expenses that could have been avoided with proper care and attention.
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Potential safety hazards.
If your concrete is spalling and deteriorating, it can lead to sharp edges and other hazardous conditions that could put people at risk of injury. This can be especially dangerous for children or pets who may not be able to avoid these harmful surfaces on their own.
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Reduced property value.
When you are trying to sell your home or property, a damaged driveway or patio will likely have a negative impact on its overall value. Spalled concrete can make your property look unattractive and run-down, which can deter potential buyers from considering it as an option for purchase. Therefore, taking concrete spalling seriously is essential if you want to protect the long-term value of your investment in this valuable asset.
What Are Some Ways We Can Prevent Or Minimize Concrete Spalling?
Some key strategies for preventing or minimizing concrete spalling include:
- Using high-quality materials that are resistant to corrosion. This includes selecting concrete with a low alkali content, using steel reinforcement bars that are coated or galvanized, and applying protective coatings to the surface of your concrete.
- Taking steps to reduce exposure to environmental factors that can lead to spalling, such as by keeping your property well maintained and limiting contact with corrosive substances like de-icing salts. This may involve taking extra precautions during periods of heavy snowfall or rainstorms, installing gutters and downspouts on your property, and choosing softer landscaping materials instead of gravel or other coarse surfaces.
- Conducting regular maintenance checks on your concrete surfaces, looking for cracks, spalling, or other signs of damage and deterioration. If you notice any issues, it is important to take action right away to prevent further damage from occurring.
In short, concrete spalling is a serious problem that requires prompt attention and care in order to prevent further damage and protect the safety of your property and those who use it. If you notice any signs of spalling, be sure to take action right away in order to safeguard your home or business for years to come. With proper care and maintenance, you can ensure that your concrete looks great and remains structurally sound for many years to come!
Looking out at the crumbling surface of your driveway or patio, it may seem like there’s nothing you can do about unsightly spalling on your concrete surfaces. However, taking concrete spalling seriously is essential for protecting the structural integrity of your property, minimizing maintenance costs over time, and ensuring that everyone is safe from potential hazards. So be sure to take concrete spalling seriously and seek out the help of a professional contractor today!
So, there you have it. Five pretty convincing reasons to take concrete spalling seriously and to call a professional when you start seeing the telltale signs. We hope this article has been helpful and informative. If you have any further questions or would like more information on how we can help solve your concrete spalling problems, please don’t hesitate to give Spaulding Concrete a call.
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Spaulding Concrete has been the SF Bay Area’s top foundation builder for over 30 years. We’re here to fix your home’s foundation, no matter what problem may exist. We have the specialized equipment, services, and professional experience that you need to make permanent improvements to your building’s foundation. To get you started on the right foot, we would be happy to give you a free quote for the repair of the foundation. When you reach out by phone or email we will have one of our foundation experts answer any questions you have and explain how we can restore integrity and structural stability to your home or company building permanently. Successful concrete projects require careful planning and thorough preparation. Spaulding Concrete reviews the site and designs to ensure that the concrete and base structure follows the criteria for the planned use and that the layout and finishes are suitable for the project. The qualified concrete experts at Spaulding Concrete will be on schedule, on budget, and meet or exceed standards through careful planning, professional execution, and strict quality control.
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