What is Concrete Cancer?

Concrete cancer, known to engineers as concrete spalling or concrete deterioration, is the breakdown of concrete surfaces due to the corrosion of reinforcing steel bars (rebar) embedded within the concrete. This can occur when water and oxygen reach the rebar, causing it to rust. The rust then expands, causing the concrete to crack.

Causes:

Concrete cancer is often caused by water infiltration, which can occur due to poor construction techniques, poor drainage, or exposure to harsh weather conditions. It can also be caused by the use of substandard materials or inadequate protection of the reinforcing steel.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of concrete cancer include visible cracks in the concrete surface, flaking or spalling of the concrete, and the appearance of rust on the surface of the concrete.

Solutions:

Engineers can help address concrete cancer in balconies by identifying the cause of the deterioration and implementing repair and protection measures to prevent further damage. This may involve removing and replacing damaged concrete, applying protective coatings to the concrete surface, and reinforcing the structure with additional steel to improve its strength and durability.

Contact our office for further advice and to arrange an inspection.