foamexpertConcrete is known for its durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. As a result, it’s used for both commercial and residential construction, such as making roads, buildings, houses, driveways, etc. However, like every material, concrete has its own share of problems. Cracks, spalling, and discolouration are some common problems with concrete that will not only ruin the appearance of your space but will even pose health hazards. For instance, cracked concrete will provide space for mould, which can cause allergies, difficulty breathing, headaches, etc. In today’s blog, we are sharing a detailed list of common concrete problems that you need to consider. So, let’s begin.
1. Cracks
Cracks are the most prevalent problem in concrete and occur due to rapid moisture loss that causes the surface to shrink. Uneven soil settling beneath the concrete surface or excessive load or foundation movement can also cause concrete to crack. Epoxy fillers, crack injection, concrete lifting, etc., can help you with cracks. Concrete Lifting Calgary provides top-class concrete lifting near Calgary at reasonable prices.
2. Spalling
Spalling is one of the most common problems with concrete and is the situation when the concrete surface layer starts chipping or flaking off. It affects the concrete very badly and exposes the underlying layers to moisture penetration and severe damage. Exposure to repetitive freezing or thawing can result in water extensions, which can enter the concrete, leading to spalling. Certain chemicals like de-icing agents and chloride-based compounds can penetrate the surface and cause this problem in concrete.
3. Discolouration
When discussing common problems with concrete, you must consider discolouration. Many factors, including calcium chloride mixture, cement alkalis hard surfaces, inadequate curing, and wet subsurfaces, can cause this problem. If you want to restore your concrete to its original colour, utilising cleaning agents like trisodium or specialised cleaners would be beneficial. They will remove all the stains from the surface. A mixture of baking soda and Vinegar will also suffice for the job.
4. Efflorescence
Efflorescence is one of the common concrete problems. It is the condition when white powder-like substances start appearing on the surface. It is caused by excess water in the concrete mix, water seeping from the ground, rain or heavy dew. Over time, water evaporates, leaving the salt behind, resulting in this problem in concrete. Among the common problems with concrete, efflorescence is probably the worst because if not treated in time, it can damage your house’s foundation.
5. Curling
Curling is next among the concrete problems that you must be aware of. It’s the condition in concrete slabs where the edges start to rise or curl because of differential shrinkage in concrete. This problem in concrete is mostly the result of rapid changes in moisture content or temperature between the top and bottom surfaces of the concrete. For example, the top of concrete slabs dries faster than the bottom, leading to higher shrinkage with results in curling. To prevent curling, one of the common problems with concrete, you should uniformly dry and keep the slab moist for sufficient time.
6. Blistering
Blistering is another common problem in concrete, and it is identified by small, uplifted, hollow bumps on the surface. They appear in fresh concrete when the surface becomes prematurely sealed as it dries, forming air bubbles or trapping water just beneath the surface. One of the common problems with concrete blisters is caused by delayed finishing, poor venting, or incorrect concrete mixture.
7. Delamination
If you are learning about common concrete problems, delamination is next. It manifests as a separation from the concrete surface. You can identify it as a thin horizontal layer peeling away from the main concrete surface. These common problems with concrete stay hidden for a long time, making it difficult to address them in time. Some common causes of delamination are rapid drying, overwork on the concrete surface, and non-uniformed concret mix distribution.
8. High Permeability
High permeability is the last entry among common concrete problems on this list. It refers to a level at which water and air pass through the concrete. This problem in concrete is like efflorescence and can cause a variety of structural issues, such as corrosion, freeze-thaw damage, decreased durability, etc. Concrete mix with excessive water and over-vibration during placement of concrete can result in high permeability.
The Dangers Lurking In The Concrete
Concrete issues can be quite a headache for bothcommercial and residential property owners. Now, you know about the common problems with concrete so you can cure them with appropriate solutions. Calling a professional for concrete repair would be best when facing problems. They might seem expensive, but they expensive but will relieve youwill and ive you relief from concrete repair for a long time.
