Specific cancer can be a serious and costly problem if left untreated, misdiagnosed, or given an irreparable remedy. There are several options to fix the problem, but the first step will be a thorough diagnosis to determine the exact cause and the full extent of the problem.
Concrete cancer
occurs when steel reinforcement within a concrete slab begins to rust. As the steel oxidizes, it expands and displaces the surrounding concrete, causing it to become brittle and crack, compounding the problem. It is essential to understand that leaving concrete chipping untreated can be hazardous.This is especially true for exterior walls since they are more exposed to the elements, which can worsen any existing issue and cause it to develop more quickly. Concrete pieces may start to fall out of the structure, damaging property and even putting people's lives in danger. Concrete cancer is a severe issue that, if left undiagnosed and untreated, can affect the structural integrity of the building. Concrete cancer, also known as alkali-silica reaction (ASR), is a serious problem that can damage or destroy structures made of concrete. The best way to prevent concrete cancer and similar issues in the future is waterproofing concrete.
Concrete cancer can occur at any time, so it is wise to watch out for telltale signs that your building may be affected. If you are worried about the presence of concrete cancer in your building, you can contact Leisuretex Property Maintenance Contractors. Flat concrete roofs are particularly vulnerable to leaks and water-driven concrete cancer if they are not adequately waterproofed. Concrete is one of the most common building materials in use today, and you will most likely find it in almost any home or building. Once concrete carbonation and low concrete coverage have been identified as the problem, the engineer may recommend using a polymer-modified repair system.
Concrete cancer is potentially a serious issue, and since most buildings have large areas of concrete (think balconies, decks, and balustrade support plates) that can move, this will lead to loss of strength and stability and even cause dislodged concrete pieces to fall. If chloride pollution is the problem in buildings near the ocean, you may need specialized repair work to treat concrete cancer. The cost of specific treatment for cancer varies as it depends on the size of the surface that needs to be treated and how severe the damage is. Depending on what caused the concrete cancer, the structural engineer may suggest different solutions. Unfortunately, this awareness of the durability of concrete and the risk of corrosion was not something that was well understood by the construction industry in past decades. Consider high-quality options such as Wolfin or Cosmofin waterproofing membranes to seal new horizontal concrete surfaces.
Steps must then be taken to properly waterproof the area before fresh concrete can be laid, especially in Brisbane where high rainfall can be an issue. So why does concrete chipping happen in the first place? There are many reasons behind this, so being vigilant at the concrete stage is definitely necessary. A particular cancer can be especially hard to detect when there has been a concerted effort made to hide or disguise it.