If you own or manage a building made of concrete, it’s important to keep an eye on its condition to avoid any potential problems.
Concrete is naturally porous, meaning water and air can pass through it. This makes it susceptible to water damage that can lead to a host of issues, including structural damage and making the building unsafe to occupy.
New concrete should be waterproofed, so it’s important to contact waterproofers in Sydney if you are building with concrete. Here are some common signs that your concrete may be unhealthy and what to do about it.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence is a common problem in concrete that appears as a white, fuzzy-looking stain that generally appears on the surface. It is caused when salts and other water-soluble substances come to the surface of the concrete. While efflorescence is not unsafe at first, it does create aesthetic problems. It can also potentially lead to more serious problems if left untreated.
If you notice efflorescence, check for cracks and holes and have them filled in if necessary. A professional may recommend waterproofing the entire concrete area with a membrane to prevent future water damage.
Mould
If concrete is high in moisture, mould may grow on its surface. This in turn can cause serious health problems for people in close contact with the concrete. Mould growth is a sign that the interior of the concrete may have moisture problems. So, it must be examined by a professional as soon as you notice it.
Concrete Cancer
Concrete cancer is one of the most serious issues when it comes to unhealthy concrete. This occurs when the steel reinforcements inside the concrete weaken and begin to rust due to moisture and/or salt. As such, if the reinforcements become weak, the structure they hold can become extremely dangerous.
However, there are common signs of concrete cancer. These usually involve spalling and cracks. Spalling occurs when the concrete chips away and you can generally see a red rust colour around the area. Cracks in your concrete are easy to see and should not be ignored. It’s important to contact a professional as soon as you see any of these warning signs.
Prevention is better than cure: How to maintain a healthy concrete
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to water damage. This makes it absolutely essential to waterproof your concrete surface with a waterproof membrane just after it has been set to prevent any potential problems.
Titan Waterproofing offers the best torch-on membrane services in Sydney, and we can help you waterproof your concrete to avoid potential problems.
In addition to waterproofing, there are other steps you can take to maintain the health of your concrete. These include regular inspections to identify potential problems early which will allow you to address them before they become serious. Keeping the concrete clean and free of debris can also help prevent water damage.
If you notice any signs of unhealthy concrete, it’s important to take action immediately. Because ignoring the problem can lead to more serious issues that are much more difficult and expensive to fix. In some cases, the only solution may be to replace the entire concrete structure, which can be a significant, but necessary expense.
If you own or manage a building made of concrete. It’s important to keep an eye on its condition to avoid potential problems. Unhealthy concrete can lead to a host of issues, including structural damage and even make the building unsafe to live or work in. If you notice any signs of unhealthy concrete, contact a professional to address the problem immediately. By taking preventive measures and addressing potential problems early. You can help maintain the health and safety of your concrete structure.
As mentioned earlier, prevention is far better than cure, especially in the case of water damage. It’s vital that your concrete surface is waterproofed with a membrane just after it has set, and we at Titan Waterproofing can help with this. For the best torch on membrane services in Sydney, give us a call on 1300 761 219!
