What Is Concrete Cancer?

Concrete cancer isn’t a well-known phrase, so it may not be one you’ve come across if you’re not in the business. And if you’re thinking it doesn’t sound like a good thing, you’d be absolutely right!

In this article, we’re going to explore concrete cancer to discover what it is, why it happens and what you need to do to avoid it. 

What is concrete cancer and why does it matter?

When we use concrete in buildings and other structures, we sometimes need to strengthen it with steel reinforcements, usually in the form of either bars or mesh. When this steel gets exposed to water and/or air, it can corrode and expand, causing the surrounding concrete to crack – a process that is also referred to as concrete spalling.

If the problem is not dealt with quickly, those cracks can expose more of the steel to the elements, leading to further corrosion and degradation over time. Eventually, the problem may become so widespread that it can threaten the integrity of the whole structure.

It’s this spread of the problem that has led to it becoming known as ‘concrete cancer’.

What causes concrete cancer?

• Poor-quality concrete

One of the major causes of concrete cancer is using concrete that hasn’t been properly mixed for the purpose and environment for which it is intended. Using a supplier who can demonstrate a commitment to quality at every stage of the concrete manufacturing process – such as the experts at Stewart Brothers Concrete – is therefore essential.

• Insufficient waterproofing

If you have any reason to believe your concrete structure will be exposed to the kind of environmental conditions that could lead to cracking and concrete cancer, you need to install a waterproof membrane to protect it.

• Steel too close to the surface

If the steel reinforcements are too close to the surface of the concrete structure, they’ll be more likely to suffer damage as a result of damp or water ingress.

• Ground movement

This doesn’t tend to be a big issue in the UK, but in areas prone to them, even minor earthquakes can cause a building to move. This can lead to cracks opening in the concrete and exposing the steel to the elements.

• Saltwater damage

Another issue that’s not going to affect every building, but those close to the coast may suffer more extreme corrosion if the steel reinforcements are exposed to saltwater from the sea.

What are the signs of concrete cancer?

It’s important to know the early signs of concrete cancer so that it can be rectified as quickly as possible. Things to look out for include:

• Cracking, flaking or crumbling concrete
• Signs of rust stains or bubbling in the concrete render
• Leaks from the roof or in the internal walls
• Bowing walls caused by the concrete expanding

If you spot any of the above problems, it’s advised that you contact a structural engineer to assess the problem and recommend concrete cancer treatment that fixes it in the short term and prevents it from happening again in the long term.

Don’t take a chance when ordering concrete for your next project. Using a supplier who can demonstrate that they work to the highest standards – such as always using BSI Kitemark and ISO 9001 quality accredited concrete – will help ensure that you’re getting the right mix that has been made to last for years. 

Here at Stewart Brothers Concrete, we’re trusted suppliers of only top-quality concrete to businesses and homeowners across Kent and East Sussex. Operating from local depots in Dover, Ashford and Sittingbourne, we’re always able to deliver the concrete you need, exactly when you need it.

Get in touch today to find out more and ask for a cost-effective quotation for your next concrete delivery.

For more information on What Is Concrete Cancer? talk to Stewart Brothers Concrete