While the term hints at how severe this type of damage is, it is possible to fix concrete cancer in some cases. Before you get started, you’ll need to understand what concrete cancer is, what you can do about it, the importance of getting expert help and how you can prevent it from happening again. Waterproofing is one of the remedies for stopping concrete spalling occurring and Projex Group supply high-end PVC sheet membrane to achieve this.
What is concrete cancer and how does it form?
The concrete used in buildings is reinforced with steel and iron bars or mesh. When exposed to air and water (such as through leaks from a higher level) a weak carbonic acid starts to form and the bars begin to corrode. Concrete is a porous material and can easily absorb the elements around it – including this corroding acid. Once corrosion starts, the steel expands, causing the surrounding concrete to crack, known as spalling. Spalling can set off a vicious cycle by further exposing the steel to the elements and accelerating the level of corrosion. The impact on the building leads to a tragic compromise of structural integrity. Flat concrete roofs are an example of a building structure particularly vulnerable to leaks and water-driven concrete cancer if they’re not adequately waterproofed.
Six common causes of concrete cancer include:
- Poor waterproofing
- Salt-water chlorides for buildings near the sea
- Building defects
- Weather
- Poor quality concrete and insufficient concrete cover
- Movement of the earth under the build leading to cracks
How to fix concrete cancer
If you suspect your building has been affected by concrete cancer, make sure you get it checked by a professional (such as remedial builders or waterproofing contractors) so you know what type of repair work has to be done. The earlier you catch it and have it fixed, the more likely you can avoid paying more for repairs than you have to.
Spotting the signs yourself
A structural engineer can diagnose concrete cancer accurately, but you might be able to work out if your building has been afflicted by the problem by looking out for a few tell-tale signs. Cracking or crumbling concrete, and rust stains emerging from the concrete/cement render are common signs. Others include bubbling concrete render and roof leaks, or leaks in internal walls. Concrete expanding outwards could also be a sign of concrete cancer.
Diagnostic analysis of concrete cancer
Every concrete cancer repair job starts with a detailed diagnosis of the problem. Have a qualified engineer conduct a diagnostic analysis. Working with a structural engineer is important since a repair contractor or repair materials supplier might not be adequately qualified to complete the job. The engineer can identify the cause of the problem and outline what needs to be repaired.
Correct the problem
Depending on the cause of concrete cancer, the engineer might recommend different solutions.
1. Polymer modified repair system solution
For situations where concrete carbonation and low concrete cover are the issue, the engineer might recommend using a polymer modified repair system. This option removes the concrete around the reinforcing bars and cleans the steel, before applying both the steel primer, and a polymer modified material. They might also apply an anti-carbonation protective coating to the whole concrete surface. Sometimes the experts might recommend using additional reinforcing steel anodes before new concrete is applied, or the steel might be replaced in severe cases.
2. Electrochemical treatment option
If it’s a case of chloride contamination in a building near the ocean, you might need to have specialist repair work done to treat the concrete cancer. This can include electrochemical treatment, such as cathodic protection.
3. Simple replacement method
If it’s a case with less severe damage, you might be able to remove the damaged concrete, clean and replace the rusted, exposed steel, and fill in the cracks.
Don’t miss the last step
Once the underlying steel and concrete has been repaired, you’ll need to allow it to cure properly; specialist coatings might be used at this stage. Then you can have finishings, paints, and protective coatings reapplied, be sure to include the application of waterproofing.
Waterproofing as a preventative to concrete cancer
Once you’ve fixed the concrete cancer, take preventative steps so it doesn’t happen again. Waterproofing concrete is essential to prevent water from corroding the steel beams. Consider high quality waterproofing options such as Wolfin or Cosmofin waterproofing membranes to seal the new concrete horizontal surfaces. This minimises the risk of future water damage, and prevents harsh chemicals contaminating the concrete from entering through pores. This is an important preventative because poor waterproofing, or worse, no waterproofing, could undo all the repair work on your building.
We want your concrete to be cancer free
When it comes to concrete cancer, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best repair option depends on your building materials and the extent of damage. Regardless of whether the damage is severe or moderate, waterproofing and comprehensive sealing after the repair is important to minimise the risk of concrete cancer reoccurring.
Projex has been a leading supplier of outstanding engineering and waterproofing products for over 25 years. We’re committed to providing the highest quality materials to solve a range of waterproofing and engineering issues. Find out more about our waterproofing products here or contact our dedicated team of qualified sales staff for more information.