Concrete Repair/Remedial Works in Melbourne
SPECIALIST MAINTENANCE & RESTORATION
Although concrete is one of the strongest and most durable construction materials available, it is still susceptible to wear and damage, like cracks, delamination, and spalling, to name just a few. Unresolved, these issues worsen, potentially leading to structural failure or expensive rebuilds.
RPV Construct delivers concrete repair and inspection services that protect both your building and your wallet, thanks to our specialist experience
Common issues with concrete structures
Damage and defects in concrete can occur due to a wide variety of factors, including:
- improper design
- poor workmanship and construction defects
- overloading
- wear and tear due to weather and environmental factors
- damage due to extreme events like earthquakes, floods, explosions, high-energy impacts
- unscientific modifications to the original structure
Below, we’ve listed the most frequently occurring issues we’ve seen with concrete floors, walls, and roofs in buildings in Melbourne.
Scaling
When bits of the concrete surface start to break off and peel away, you have a scaling issue on hand. This happens due to the use of a poor concrete mix and inadequate curing.
Discolouration
Concrete discolouration happens because of inconsistencies in the finishing off process. Failure to get the right concrete mix, stains from chemical contaminants or introduction of the additives to speed up the setting time can lead to terribly discoloured concrete walls.
Cracking
Cracking is probably the most common problem with concrete structures. They can be broadly classified into two types: structural and surface level cracks. Cracking happens due to a combination of factors such as shrinkage during curing, thermal contraction, settlement and heavy loads.
Crazing
Another often-seen issue when it comes to concrete is crazing. This surfaces in the form of a series of fine, interconnected cracks. It is more of a cosmetic issue than a structural one. Crazing usually happens due to a poor finishing or early surface drying.
Delamination
When concrete loses its bond with the reinforcing steel underneath, it results in a condition known as delamination. This occurs when air or water gets trapped while finishing, resulting in voids in the structure that surface in the form of planar cracks and eventually detach. They are easily detected by tapping the concrete surface with a hammer. A hollow sound would indicate delamination.
Other common issues include inadequate or poor quality materials, insufficient concrete thickness over reinforcing bars, premature removal of shoring, honeycombing, and spalling. Whatever the cause or type of defect, RPV Construct’s experts offer the most cost-effective and long-lasting concrete repair solutions for your building.
Why choose RPV Construct for concrete repair
All concrete structures have a lifespan and will eventually start showing their age. Much like every other building material, it will need regular attention and maintenance work for it to serve you well long term.
Whether it is cracks in your driveway, crazing in your walls or spall formation in the stairs, our team of experienced and knowledgeable professionals will be able to provide a solution that brings back the durability and strength of your structure.
A common saying in the industry is that 50% of concrete repairs fail within the first two years. This is mostly because of resorting to stop-gap solutions and repair attempts or DIY efforts without the necessary knowhow and skills.
