Concrete is often used in a lot of projects, primarily because of its strength, durability, and versatility. However, just like everything, if installed or maintained poorly, concrete starts developing problems over time. As one of the most dependable Concrete Contractorsin Melbourne, ProForm Concreting knows how hard you must work to get one step ahead of common concrete problems before they become big worries. In this piece, we will discuss a few of the most prevalent issues that tend to affect concrete and how you may avoid them.
1. Cracking: The Most Common Concrete Problem
Of course, cracks are probably the most well-known problem with concrete surfaces. While the odd small crack here or there is inevitable, sometimes they can grow into bigger problems if not managed correctly.
Why It Occurs:
Temperature Fluctuations: Concrete expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations. If these fluctuations occur frequently, then there is a buildup of stress in the concrete, that will soon cause cracking.
Heavy Loads: Concrete surfaces that have loads on them, such as driveways or sidewalks, are most prone to cracking when pressure is applied to them.
Lack of Correct Curing: If the concrete is not cured appropriately, it starts to weaken and crack easily.
How to Avoid It:
Proper curing is an assured way to ensure concrete dries out slowly and uniformly, thus preventing chances of cracking from arising.
Control joints help establish where the cracks might occur, so they do not appear obtrusive.
Reinforce the Concrete. Steel rebar or wire mesh reinforcement can strengthen the concrete and make cracks unlikely to appear.
2. Scaling: When the Surface Begins to Flake
Scaling occurs when the concrete surface starts to flake off or peel away, usually leaving an uneven or unsightly surface.
Why It Occurs:
Freezing and Thawing: The embedded moisture in the concrete expands and then contracts due to freezing and thawing, which results in degradation at the surface.
De-icing salts: De-icing salts used to melt winter ice also degrade the concrete and make it deteriorate.
Poor Finishing: Poor finishing of the concrete, such as overworking of the surface, will tend to form a more susceptible surface to scaling
How to Avoid It:
Seal the Concrete: A good quality sealer can prevent the concrete from scaling to some extent due to moisture and chemicals.
Avoid De-Iicing Salts: In place of de-icing salts, use sand or gravel for traction assistance in winter.
Proper Mixing: The concrete is mixed just right so that there is no overproportion of water in the mix, thus causing scaling.
3. Pitting: Tiny Holes in the Surface
Pitting is a condition that strikes to furnish small holes or depressions on the concrete’s surface. It can be caused by repetitive water exposure or harsh chemicals, thus giving a worn-out surface.
Why It Occurs:
Water Exposure: Water absorbs it. Thus, whenever water keeps on soaking into the surface, it may deteriorate the concrete as well as cause pitting.
Chemical Spills: Generally, severe chemical spills can degrade the surface and lead to pitting.
Heavy Use: Pitting is generally caused by constant foot or vehicle traffic, especially on unsealed or unprotected surfaces.
How to Avoid it:
Seal the Surface: A good sealer will protect the concrete from water and chemicals that cause pitting.
Improve Drainage: Water may not collect on the top surface, especially if it is installed as a driveway or patio. Excellent draining helps in preventing water damage to the slab.
Limit Heavy Traffic: Maintain or minimise heavy loads on the slab and continuous foot traffic because it tends to aggravate pitting.
4. Color Loss: How Concrete Stains and Ages
Concrete, at some point, will stain as it ages. It may be due to the sun, stains, or simply wear and tear.
Why It Occurs:
Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause concrete to fade or discolor on its surface.
Poor Mix: Sometimes concrete is mixed poorly, which leads to uneven coloring.
Water Stains: Water or chemical spills will stain a concrete surface.
How to Avoid it:
Seal the Concrete: This prevents water, stains, and UV damage from penetrating onto the concrete’s surface.
Clean Regularly: Clean your concrete to prevent stains from settling in and causing discoloration.
Products with UV Protection: If your concrete is subject to direct sunlight, applying a UV-protective sealant will help preserve its color.
5. Uneven Settling: When Concrete Shifts or Sinks
Unequal settling occurs when the bottom ground shifts under the concrete, causing it to settle or lean on one side, usually resulting in an unstable surface.
Why It Occurs:
Poor Ground Preparation: If the ground under the concrete slab is not well compacted, it may sink or settle unevenly with time.
Water Damage: Water can damage the soil under the concrete, weakening the foundation and causing problems with settling.
Heavy Loads: It may settle unevenly because of heavy load or extreme traffic.
How to Avoid it:
Proper Ground Preparation: This means that the ground is well compacted even before pouring concrete. This will help in eliminating settling issues.
Proper Drainage: Keep your concrete slab away from water and that is an excellent way of preventing erosion and settling issues.
Regular concrete inspection: Often through monitoring for settlement signs, can detect issues before they become big problems.
Conclusion
While concrete is known for its strength and longevity, it can develop issues if it’s not installed or maintained properly. Whether it’s cracking, scaling, or discoloration, taking the right precautions can help prevent these problems from affecting your concrete surfaces. If you’re facing any concrete-related concerns, it’s always a good idea to reach out to a Concrete Contractor in Melbourne to ensure your concrete work is done properly.
From great, proper quality concrete services that are designed to last – ranging from new installations, to getting some maintenance done on surfaces you already have; call or come by ProForm Concreting today for your next concrete need!