Concrete Defects in Construction

Almost all major construction jobs need concrete at some point. However, the process of mixing, curing, and pouring concrete is not easy. It can be defective in many ways.

Broken concrete, especially when used for the foundation of a structure, can be a huge problem. Even visible cracks in the concrete may indicate a serious construction defect.

Concrete defects can occur due to improper mixing, curing, or environmental factors. Here’s a look at some of the most common defects.

Cracking

A concrete crack refers to a whole or partial split of concrete caused by fracturing or breaking. Concrete tends to shrink as it dries, which allows moisture to accumulate and cause the material’s surface to crack. The cracks can be small or large, depending on the amount of moisture present at the time.

Concrete cracks can occur due to various reasons:

• Plastic shrinkage cracks: These appear in the early stages when surface moisture evaporates too quickly, leaving voids.
• Structural cracks: These result from excessive loads, settlement, or foundation movement, potentially compromising strength.
• Thermal cracking: These are caused by temperature fluctuations that create expansion and contraction stresses.
• Crazing: A network of fine surface cracks due to rapid drying or improper finishing.

 Scaling

This is the flaking or peeling of the concrete surface, often caused by:

• Exposure to freeze-thaw cycles
• Poor finishing techniques that result in weak surface layers.
• Using excessive water in the mix

Spalling

This refers to chunks of concrete breaking off, which can be caused by:

• Corrosion of reinforcing steel, leading to expansion and cracking.
• Poor-quality concrete or inadequate curing.
• Exposure to high temperatures or impact damage.

Honeycombing

This refers to rough, porous areas in concrete where cement paste has not filled all voids. Causes include:

• Poor vibration or compaction during pouring.
• Use of overly stiff or dry concrete mix.
• Poor formwork leading to leakage of cement paste.

Efflorescence

This refers to a white, powdery substance appearing on the surface due to:

• Water dissolving soluble salts in the concrete and depositing them as it evaporates.
• High moisture exposure, such as from groundwater or rain.
• Poor drainage and lack of vapor barriers.

Segregation

Segregation is the separation of coarse aggregate from the cement paste, leading to:

• Inconsistent concrete strength.
• Formation of weak zones, increasing permeability.
• Causes include excessive vibration, dropping concrete from great heights, or improper mix proportions.

Bleeding

Excess water rising to the surface as concrete sets, which can result in:

• Weak, dusty, or porous surfaces.
• Formation of laitance, a weak top layer that reduces adhesion for coatings or overlays.
• Delayed finishing, leading to poor surface quality.

Contact Us Today

Concrete issues are no laughing matter. Even a seemingly minor crack can point to a major issue.

Construction defects can lead to structural issues and lawsuits. For effective legal help, contact a Florida defective construction claim lawyer from Linkhorst Law Firm. You can count on us to have the expertise and knowledge to handle your construction-related legal concerns. To schedule a consultation with our office, fill out the online form or call 561-626-8880.

Source:

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