Concrete cancer Brisbane is a concrete-degrading fungus that affects concrete structures over time. It’s not just the concrete that suffers, but any steel reinforcing bars used in construction because they are prone to rusting away. The good news is there are solutions for concrete cancer in Brisbane if it’s caught early enough! In this article, we will be discussing concrete cancer types, causes, and treatment so you can prevent further damage to your concrete structure.
Concrete cancer types: concrete cancer in Brisbane can come in different forms and affect concrete structures differently. There are three main types:
- concrete spalling, which is when the concrete’s outer layer crumbles away due to corrosion of steel reinforcement bars within it;
- concrete scaling, where the concrete surface peels off because of the moisture trapped under its layers that expand or contract too quickly;
- concrete honeycombing, caused by damage to compressive strength during construction. Generally speaking, concretes with low compressive strength will be more susceptible to this type of damage!
Concrete scales and honeycombs look similar, but their causes differ. One results from excessive water, while another comes about due to poor material quality and improper curing techniques used in construction.
Concrete cancer Brisbane is a severe issue that concrete contractors need to be aware of. Luckily, this condition usually takes years before it becomes dangerous and visible on the surface.
Causes: concrete cancer results from being constantly submerged in water, leading to the corrosion of steel reinforcements. 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, exacerbating 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 that appear in overhead concrete surfaces
The treatment for concrete cancer is particular and should be carried out by concrete professionals only! The first step is usually removing all damaged concrete around the affected area before replacing it with new material that will not let water inside again.
Concrete is a construction material of choice for many different reasons, and one of the most common uses is in driveways! Concrete driveways have many benefits, including excellent durability and all-weather suitability, but they also come with some risks that must be known before installation.
For more information, check online for constructions experts’ opinions on the matter.
