Concrete Repair

Reinforced concrete is a commonly used method of building construction in Australia. While concrete is strong, it is however subject to deterioration over time. This can be caused by porous concrete or insufficient concrete covering the steel reinforcement. The result is the penetration of moisture and salts which erode the reinforcement. Particularly damaging are chlorides (from sea spray or chemicals) or carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. As the reinforcing steel corrodes, it expands deep inside the concrete resulting in cracks and spalling that decrease the strength of the structural elements. This is known as concrete cancer.

The problem does not rectify itself. If left unrepaired the steel will be exposed to more moisture, which expedites the problem. The building can become structurally unsound and dangerous.