Are you noticing that small chips or even large pieces of your concrete sidewalk, driveway, or patio are breaking off? If so, this is a sign that spalling might be occurring. Spalling concrete is characterized by the flaking or peeling of the surface layer of a concrete structure. It typically appears as rough, exposed aggregate or as small, irregularly shaped pieces of concrete that have broken away from the larger surface.
As the concrete chipping progresses, the exposed surface may become pitted or cracked, and the underlying steel reinforcement may become visible. Chipping concrete or spalling concrete refers to the flaking or chipping concrete surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, patios, and pool decks. Once the surface of the concrete begins to chip, it continues to deteriorate rapidly, which can lead to structural concerns.
Chipping concrete can also lead to trip hazards, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic. Various solutions are available that can restore the structural integrity of spalling concrete. These include the following:. Following these preventive maintenance measures, your concrete surfaces can last for years without any damage or spalling.
We serve Southern California , Arizona , and Nevada. Your email address will not be published. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Table of Contents. This weakens the structural integrity of concrete, making it susceptible to failure. Freeze-thaw cycle β Another factor that can cause concrete to spall is the freeze-thaw cycle. Concrete is porous, allowing water to seep in. When the temperature drops, the water inside the pores expands, creating pressure that can cause the concrete to crack and spall.
The freeze-thaw cycle is particularly problematic in areas with cold winter months, where the temperature can fluctuate significantly. The constant cycle of moisture and freezing temperatures can cause severe deterioration, resulting in damage from concrete spalling. Concrete made with low-quality materials may not provide enough strength to withstand the stress of everyday use.
