Concrete structures are much more susceptible to damage than many homeowners believe. Understanding the most common concrete problems can help prevent them from happening and putting your property at risk.
Small hairline cracks are a common problem and usually an aesthetic issue rather than a structural one as they affect the reflective surface improves lighting in the space. However, larger cracks are a sign of a bigger problem.
1. Water Damage
Concrete is strong enough to hold up skyscrapers and even your home, but that doesn’t mean it’s invulnerable. It is vulnerable to water damage, which can lead to everything from surface cracks to sinking slabs and crumbling cement. The main reason is that concrete is porous and absorbs moisture. As it ages, this excess moisture eats away at the concrete’s overall strength. It can also lead to corrosion and discoloration of the concrete.
One common way that moisture impacts concrete is through crazing, which is a network of fine surface cracks that do not extend deep into the concrete. Crazing can be a cosmetic problem, but it can also reduce the value of your property. It is often caused by early surface drying or poor concrete finishing techniques. Concrete contractors can prevent crazing through a quality installation process.
Another way that moisture can impact concrete is by causing spalling, which is when the top layer of the concrete breaks away from the underlying layers. This exposes the softer, more easily damaged material to the elements and can be caused by excessive water infiltration, chemical penetration, or underground water movement.
Spalling can also be caused by exposure to freezing and thawing cycles. It can be exacerbated by the use of de-icing products, which can contain chloride that penetrates and softens the concrete.
Moisture can also lead to mold growth, which may contaminate your living space and lead to severe health problems. It is important to keep an eye out for damp areas and fix any plumbing leaks immediately to avoid this.
A regular maintenance plan that includes routine inspections and proactive repairs can help you identify and resolve common concrete problems before they get worse. If you do notice a problem, a concrete contractor can provide repair and maintenance services to keep your concrete safe and functional for years to come. When working with concrete, it is best to use epoxies that are designed for the application at hand. For instance, if you need to work with harsh environments or in high temperatures, look for industrial, high-performance, and moisture-tolerant epoxies.
2. Stubborn Cracks
Concrete is an incredibly strong material, but it’s not indestructible. The forces of nature, heavy objects, and even time can cause concrete to crack and crumble. It’s important to know how to recognize these issues and call a professional for repair services. In many cases, the right epoxy can save a structurally compromised structure and preserve its beauty.
Surface flaking, known as spalling, is a common concrete problem that can result in serious damage to the foundation of your home. You can usually spot this issue by listening for it; a sound that’s different from the hard, sharp ring of solid concrete means there is delamination in the surface layer. To stop this from worsening, a trowel-grade light coat of concrete can be used to smooth out the surface.
Cracks are a natural part of the aging process, and they’re particularly common in concrete structures like patios, walkways and driveways. However, there are a few key differences between minor cracks and serious problems that require a professional.
Plastic shrinkage cracks are caused by rapid moisture loss during the curing process. This type of crack isn’t typically a safety hazard, but it can be unsightly. Settlement cracks are a more serious concern that indicate uneven soil settling beneath your concrete.
If you notice a large number of these types of cracks, it’s important to contact a concrete contractor as soon as possible. They can advise you on the best solution based on your specific needs.
Epoxy can fix these and other common concrete problems. It’s important to use a high-quality product, and one that is suitable for the type of concrete you have at your home. For example, if you’re working with metal, you’ll want to use an epoxy designed for that specific material. If your concrete is in a harsh environment or exposed to high temperatures, you’ll need an epoxy that can withstand those conditions as well. If you’re not sure which type of epoxy to choose, it’s always a good idea to consult a concrete construction expert. These experts can help you find the perfect products to solve your specific concrete problems and keep your concrete looking great for years to come.
3. Severe Discoloration
Concrete is a popular material that’s used in driveways, sidewalks, patios, parking lots, and so much more. It’s durable and adds a timeless look to homes, buildings, and commercial structures. However, like any building material, it has its limitations. When concrete isn’t installed properly, it can suffer from several problems that affect its durability and visual appeal. These concrete problems may seem minor on the surface, but they can significantly impact a property’s overall appearance and functionality.
Discoloration is one of the most common concrete problems that can be caused by poor installation or weather conditions. The color of concrete can be affected by various factors, including temperature changes, material exposure, and curing time. If left untreated, the discoloration can lead to unsightly blotches in the concrete. Discoloration can also make a surface less attractive to visitors.
A concrete contractor can prevent discoloration by using proper mixing methods and ensuring that all concrete is fully mixed. In addition, it is important to follow recommended curing practices. These measures can help ensure that the concrete is a uniform shade and has a high-quality finish.
Another way to prevent discoloration is by avoiding practices that can cause segregation, which occurs when the cement paste separates from the aggregates. This can be caused by over-vibration during concrete placement, not allowing the cement to reach a full slump, or dropping concrete from too high of a height. Segregation is a serious concrete problem because it reduces the strength and durability of concrete.
If discoloration does occur, it can be remedied by using a concrete cleaner. A stiff brush dipped in a water-soluble concrete cleaning solution can help get rid of the discoloration and halt its progression. If the discoloration is severe, stronger chemicals such as hydrochloric acid or diammonium citrate can be used to remove it.
As you can see, the most common concrete problems are easily fixable with the right materials and processes. By understanding these issues, implementing proper troubleshooting techniques, and practicing regular inspections, construction professionals can ensure that their concrete structures are durable and visually appealing for years to come.
4. Weakness
Concrete is extremely strong in compression, but it’s weaker than steel in tension. As such, it’s fairly porous and susceptible to forces that absorb and release water, leading to structural damage over time.
Water absorption is most common in outdoor environments where it’s exposed to sunlight and wind. It’s not uncommon for this to cause a few hairline surface cracks, but more serious damage is likely to require repairs or replacement of the affected area.
Unlike the cracking that comes with natural aging, this kind of damage is often a result of poor installation practices or environmental conditions. It is typically not a sign of a serious problem and can be remedied by the use of a waterproof sealer or other concrete repair products.
Other conditions that can lead to weakened concrete include not using the right amount of water in the mix, working and finishing the surface while the concrete is still wet and leaving it exposed to sun, and placing deicing salts containing calcium or sodium chloride on the concrete. Another issue that can result in weak concrete is crazing, which is a network of fine surface cracks that don’t extend below the surface. This is usually a sign of early surface drying or poor concrete finishing.
A professional can help you determine the best way to address these problems and keep your concrete looking and functioning its best for years to come. They will also be able to recommend the best epoxies to address specific environments and conditions, such as high-temperature or corrosive applications.
When addressing these problems, you need to act fast. A quick and simple fix for small cracks is to use concrete patching compounds or fillers, but larger or structural cracks might require the use of a crack injection or full replacement. If you notice any of these signs in your concrete, have it repaired by an experienced concrete contractor as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
