Types of Deterioration

Concrete Problems & Repair

Concrete is a durable and long-lasting construction material. However, it can deteriorate due to various environmental factors such as freeze-thaw cycles, chemical exposure and water infiltration.

The most common forms of concrete deterioration include cracking, spalling, reinforcing steel corrosion and alkali-silica reactions. If left unchecked, it can weaken the structural integrity of a building, leading to costly repairs or even collapse.

If you suspect damage, timely repairs should be undertaken to prevent further deterioration. Ottawa Concrete Repair can help you identify and fix any problem in your concrete so your structure can serve you for many more years.

Concrete Cracking

Concrete cracks occur primarily due to shrinkage as it cures. Also, thermal cracking happens because it freezes and thaws over the winter months.

Then, there could be cracks from chemical reactions in the concrete. Finally, damage can occur from overloading the concrete or impacts.

Unfortunately, cracks create a path for water to travel deeper into the surface and cause more problems. Therefore, it’s critical to seal them quickly to protect the concrete.

Corrosion in Reinforcing Steel

Reinforcing steel corrosion occurs when the rebar in the concrete is exposed to moisture and other environmental factors. As the steel rusts, it expands and can cause concrete cracking or spalling, compromising the structural integrity.

The reinforcing steel often corrodes from a reaction with chlorides(salts). This could be from internal sources present when the concrete was mixed or from de-icers applied to the surface.

Corrosion happens because air or water reaches the rebar. Therefore, it’s critical to maintain your concrete surfaces and have waterproofing installed if you face moist conditions.

Alkali-Silica Reactions in Concrete

Alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete is a chemical reaction that can occur between the alkalis in the cement paste and reactive forms of silica in aggregates. The reaction produces a gel-like substance that can absorb water, expand, and cause cracks and damage to the concrete.

ASR is a significant problem for concrete structures because it can lead to lower concrete durability and structural integrity. This damage usually looks like a map of interconnected cracks.

If you suspect this problem, you’ll need professional testing to be sure it’s the cause. Ottawa Concrete can help you deal with ASR by sealing the concrete surface to prevent further moisture intrusion.

Concrete Spalling

Spalling is a concrete problem similar to cracking with most of the same causes. As opposed to cracked, spalled concrete looks like the surface is flaking off.

First, we can fix spalled concrete by finding and addressing underlying problems. Then, Ottawa Concrete Repair can remove the spalled concrete and fill in the damaged area.

Concrete Damage Testing

Two common techniques for detecting problem areas under your slab’s surface are electromechanical-sounding (EMS) devices and chain dragging.

The chain drag technique is as simple as it seems. You run a chain over the slab’s surface and listen for a distinct hollow sound that tells you where there are corroded areas. If you find possible problems, further, in-depth testing is needed to create a solution.

On the other hand, EMS uses electrical waves to test moisture content in concrete. This can tell you where rebar corrosion is happening or likely to occur so you can take steps to address the problem.

Maintenance Recommendations

According to the American Concrete Institute Ontario (ACI), at least two inches of concrete should cover reinforcing steel. This ensures water and environmental pollutants won’t reach the rebar and corrode it.

Outdoor concrete should be washed at least once a year, preferably in the spring after de-icing salts have accumulated and before they can permeate. In most cases, indoor concrete doesn’t need to be washed but must be kept clean.

Additionally, joints and cracks should be sealed to prevent water from reaching the reinforcing steel. For the most part, your sealant will last between three and five years and should be periodically checked for deterioration.

Contact Us About Concrete Damage Today

If you suspect concrete damage in your home or building, there’s no time to wait. Call Ottawa Concrete Repair today, and we’ll take care of everything for you!