Concrete cancer is caused when the steel reinforcing within a concrete slab begins to rust. As the steel rusts, it expands and displaces the surrounding concrete; causing it to become brittle and crack which exacerbates the issue.
Signs of concrete cancer include:
- Delaminated and cracking concrete (concrete spalling)
- Rust stains which seem to leak out from within the concrete
- Bubbling (also called plating) of concrete render
- Leaks which appear in overhead concrete surfaces
A range of factors can contribute to concrete cancer
Your building may have spalling concrete for a number of reasons, including:
- A poorly-poured substrate which has allowed moisture to seep into it through cracks and voids
- Inadequate preparation of the reinforcing steel when the original concrete was poured.
- The ends of the reinforcing are too close to the surface. In heavy rains, water may seep through causing lime and other chemicals in the steel to oxidise.
- Incompatible metals being used in close proximity to each other, thus causing a reaction which allows water into the slab
- Stress fractures from bearing weight or general wear-and-tear allow water to penetrate the concrete and react with the steel
To discuss your building and concerns about concrete spalling, concrete cracking and concrete cancer.
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RELATED SERVICES

Concrete Repair
Treat the signs of concrete spalling, cracking and delamination.

Structural Building Solutions
You can be assured of quality workmanship and a specialised solution that covers structural remediation of concrete, steel or timber.

Building Façade Repairs and Upgrades
When it comes to your building façade maintenance and refurbishment, we create a customised solution based on budget and desired results.

Concrete Repair
Treat the signs of concrete spalling, cracking and delamination.

Structural Building Solutions
You can be assured of quality workmanship and a specialised solution that covers structural remediation of concrete, steel or timber.

Building Façade Repairs and Upgrades
When it comes to your building façade maintenance and refurbishment, we create a customised solution based on budget and desired results.
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