Flat concrete roofs are an example of a building structure that is particularly vulnerable to leaks and water-driven concrete cancer if not properly waterproofed. Saltwater chlorides for buildings near the sea can be a major cause of this issue. There are several potential causes of chipping and concrete cancer, including natural factors such as salt water chloride corrosion and extreme weather, which can prematurely age a waterproofing membrane and cause leaks. Six common causes of concrete cancer are poor waterproofing, formation of saltwater chlorides in buildings near the sea, construction defects, weather, poor quality concrete and insufficient concrete cover, and ground movement under construction that causes cracking.
Waterproofing is the process of making a tile waterproof or water resistant. It is a control implemented to prevent rain, moisture and leaks in the slab from causing concrete cancer and hindering the structural integrity of the building. Poor waterproofing can cause much more than concrete cancer, such as health risks from mold, allergies and fungal infections. This process is what gives cancer to a specific structure.
Concrete cancer occurs when concrete absorbs water and salt air that oxidizes the steel it contains. When it expands, it cracks the concrete. This extreme cancer of concrete was actually initiated by the magnesite floor covering. Rainwater entered the balcony door, wetting the magnesite which then leached the aggressive chloride ions into the concrete, causing significant corrosion problems.
If parts break, it can pose a risk of injury to people passing by and damage to other properties, so it's important to repair concrete steps before the damage becomes too great. You can be assured of quality workmanship and a specialized solution that covers structural remediation of concrete, steel or wood. Consider high-quality options, such as Wolfin or Cosmofin waterproofing membranes, to seal new horizontal concrete surfaces. Concrete cancer can occur at any time, so it's a good idea to watch for telltale signs that your building may be affected. Danrae Group has decades of experience and a diverse team trained in all waterproofing techniques and each brand.
If a section of a slab has been used to support an excessive amount of weight, but the concrete was not designed for it, a common side effect is stress fractures in this particular area of the slab. Concrete cancer is a serious problem that, if left undiagnosed and left untreated, can affect the structural integrity of the building. Repairing severely damaged concrete can cost thousands of dollars, so it may not be cost-effective compared to replacing it. Contrary to popular belief, specific cancer is not always caused by poor craftsmanship; there are numerous reasons that contribute to this issue. If this water is deep enough and comes into contact with the reinforcing steel, the concrete is at an instant risk of concrete cancer.
Because concrete is porous, it can absorb water and salt air very easily, corroding the steel inside. Depending on the cause of the concrete cancer, the structural engineer may recommend different solutions. It is not necessary to be a structural engineer to identify this issue; however, it is recommended to obtain the professional opinion of an expert qualified for the rectification of this particular cancer.
