Concrete cancer, also known as concrete corrosion, is a serious problem that can weaken the structural integrity of a building if left untreated. It is caused by the corrosion of steel reinforcement in concrete, which can be accelerated by cracking and water infiltration. In this article, we'll discuss how to identify and remove concrete cancer, as well as how to prevent it from happening again. The first step in removing concrete cancer is to identify the affected area. Signs of concrete cancer include chipped and cracked concrete, exposed steel, and rust.
If the damage is moderate, you may be able to remove the damaged concrete, clean and replace the oxidized steel, and fill in any cracks. If the damage is more severe, you may need to remove and replace the entire affected area. Once the affected area has been identified, it's important to clean and repair any exposed steel. This can be done using different techniques such as electrochemical treatment for near-ocean properties or simply removing damaged concrete and replacing it with new material. It's also important to apply a steel primer and a polymer-modified material on top of the steel. In addition to repairing the affected area, it's important to apply an anti-carbonation sealant over the entire surface of the concrete to reinforce its strength.
This will help prevent further corrosion and protect your building from future damage. It's also important to repair minor cracks and other damage to the concrete as soon as you notice them. Finally, waterproofing your concrete is the best way to prevent concrete cancer from occurring in the future. This can be done by applying a specialized coating or sealant over the entire surface of the concrete. If you need help repairing, removing or installing new concrete, compare quotes for concrete mixers near you. Concrete cancer can slowly kill a building if it isn't stopped in time.
Remedies may include site-specific electrochemical treatment for near-ocean properties or simply removing damaged concrete, cleaning or removing affected steel, and replacing with new material. An anti-carbonation coating or other specialized coating can be applied to strengthen and preserve the concrete. Regardless of whether the damage is severe or moderate, waterproofing and integral sealing after repair are important to minimize the risk of cancer recurrence in concrete. If you have detected signs of concrete cancer in your building, consult a professional and get advice on the type of repair work to be done. Repairing severely damaged concrete can cost thousands of dollars, so it may not be cost-effective compared to replacing it.
Get up to 3 free quotes. Compare and choose the best professional for your work.
