Spalling concrete results from water ingress into the concrete and the freeze-thaw cycle. This can result in the deterioration of the concrete and the formation of cracks, spalls, and pitting. The freeze-thaw cycle can also cause the formation of expansion joints and cracking of the concrete.
The architectural builder can help avoid these problems by using various techniques, such as concrete sealers, the installation of expansion joints, and the use of concrete reinforcement.
Freezing and thawing:
Freezing can cause damage to concrete by expanding pore water pressure and causing cracks that increase in size each time freezing occurs. In addition, the freezing cycle causes expansion within the voids in the concrete. This expansion reduces adhesion between aggregates and matrices, which results in spalling. Spalling occurs when cement paste separates from aggregate particles due to freeze-thaw cycling.
Corrosion of concrete reinforcement:
The steel reinforcement used in reinforced concrete is susceptible to corrosion from sulphate attack when exposed to de-icing salts such as sodium chloride (rock salt). This causes corrosion products such as rust or iron oxide that can weaken or break off reinforcing bars leading to cracking and spalling.
Alkali-silica reaction:
Alkali-silica reaction is a chemical reaction between alkaline materials (such as cement) and silica. This can result in the pitting and spalling of concrete surfaces. The architectural home builder can help avoid these problems by using various techniques, such as waterproofing coatings or sealants on exposed surfaces.
Aggregate erosion:
Aggregate erosion occurs when aggregates erode from their surface due to vehicle weathering or physical damage. This can lead to spalling of the concrete and other types of damage to the structure. The architectural home builder can help by using aggregates resistant to erosion, such as granite or limestone, rather than sand or gravel.
Saltwater action:
Spalling concrete is caused by saltwater action on buildings. Saltwater action occurs when rainwater seeps into porous concrete through cracks or joints in the building’s exterior walls, floors or foundations.
how the architectural home builder can help:
The architectural home builder can help avoid these problems by using various techniques, such as concrete sealers, the installation of expansion joints, and the use of concrete reinforcement.
Conclusion:
Spalling concrete can cause costly damage to a residence or commercial building. The architectural home builder must ensure that serious issues with spalling concrete are avoided by using techniques and strategies to ensure the long-term structural integrity of the concrete. The architectural home builder should be vigilant in using these techniques and utilise them whenever necessary.