How To Easily Repair Your Pitted And Spalled Concrete

Concrete is a durable and versatile material, but it is also susceptible to damage. Spalling and pitting are two common problems that can affect concrete surfaces. Fortunately, both of these issues are repairable and preventable.

Many property owners write off spalling and pitting and believe it is normal, but this is not the case. Furthermore, you will actually save far more money and time taking care of your concrete. So, it would be best if you educate yourself more on how to take better care of your concrete.

Let’s explain what causes spalling and pitting and how to repair them. We’ll also provide some tips for preventing these problems from occurring in the first place.

What is Pitted Concrete?

Pitted concrete is concrete that gets damaged by the action of acids or other corrosive substances. Furthermore, the acids break down the cementitious material in the concrete, causing it to lose its strength and become porous.

Typically, you’ll find pitted concrete in areas where there is a high concentration of sulfur dioxide or other corrosive gases. Also, it can happen with the use of insufficiently cured concrete or by the use of poorly quality aggregates. Moreover, pitted concrete is dangerous because it can cause collapse and injuries.

Inspecting concrete regularly for signs of pitting and repairing pits as soon as you find them is crucial.

What is Spalled Concrete?

Spalled concrete is a type of deterioration that occurs when the surface of the concrete begins to chip and flake. Spalling happens for several reasons, including exposure to freeze-thaw cycles, salt, chemicals, or abrasion. While spalling is unsightly, it is not usually structurally significant.

However, in severe cases, spalling can lead to the formation of cracks and holes. Furthermore, cracks and holes can allow moisture and other harmful elements to penetrate the concrete. Usually, you can repair it with a topical sealant or patching material. More serious cases may require more extensive repair work, such as grinding or resurfacing.

How to Repair Pitted and Spalled Concrete

Pitted and spalled concrete is repairable using a variety of methods. First, the most important thing is to ensure the surface is clean and smooth before beginning any repairs. Next, apply a bonding agent to help the repair material adhere to the concrete. For small areas, patching compounds are beneficial to fill in any pits or cracks.

Larger areas may require the use of a polymer-modified cementitious coating. This type of coating applies in layers, and each subsequent layer must be allowed to cure before the next is applied. Once the repair is complete, it is important to protect the concrete from further damage by sealing it with a waterproof sealant.

By following these steps, you can effectively repair pitted and spalled concrete.

Tips for Prevention

Pitted or spalled concrete is caused by the surface erosion of the concrete, exposing the aggregate beneath. Moreover, this results from a variety of factors such as weather, materials, and debris.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent pits or spalls from forming, you can take a few steps to reduce the risk. First, it is vital to use a high-quality concrete mix and ensure proper curing of the concrete. Second, regularly seal exposed surfaces with a water-resistant sealer. Finally, cover any areas particularly susceptible to erosion with a layer of gravel or other material.

Taking these precautions can help prolong the life of your concrete and reduce the risk of pits or spalls forming.

Let Smart Coatings Help Your Property

Smart Coatings is a company that provides concrete coatings to businesses and homeowners in Southern Illinois. We offer a wide range of services, including floor coatings, garage coatings, and basement coatings. In addition to our services, we offer a variety of colors and textures for customers on every job. Our customizability allows each customer to have a unique coating solution that meets their specific needs.

Are you looking to protect your property? Please get in touch with us today!

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Smart Coatings is a company that specializes in concrete coatings and flooring. We provide services to both residential and commercial customers in Southern Illinois. Our expert team has the knowledge and experience to help you choose the best coating solution for your needs.