FIELD GUIDE • CONCRETE REMEDIATION
VISIBLE INDICATOR
Cracking, delamination and exposed steel can all signal an active repair issue.
Spalling is not just cosmetic. It is the visible result of a failure process that can reduce concrete cover, expose reinforcement, and allow moisture to accelerate the cycle.
Concrete cancer and concrete spalling are symptoms of the same failure process: moisture reaches embedded steel, corrosion expands it, then pressure cracks and breaks away the surrounding concrete.
01
Moisture enters
Cracks, failed coatings, poor drainage or porous concrete allow water and salts to travel inward.
02
Steel corrodes
Once reinforcement is exposed to moisture and oxygen, corrosion begins and the steel expands.
03
Concrete cracks
The pressure from rust lifts the concrete cover and creates cracks that admit even more water.
04
Surface spalls
Pieces detach, reinforcement becomes exposed and the repair can become more complex and costly.
ON-SITE CHECKLIST
Rust staining & cracks
Look for orange-brown stains, hairline cracking that follows steel lines, or white salt deposits.
Dampness & water paths
Recurring damp patches, ponding or failed joints are clues that moisture may be feeding the issue.
Hollow or loose concrete
Sounding hollow, flaking edges, loose fragments or exposed bars should be assessed by a qualified professional.
WHY IT MATTERS
Is concrete cancer dangerous?
Early investigation helps identify the moisture source, isolate active corrosion and limit how far repairs need to extend. Waiting can turn a local defect into a larger safety and access problem.
Monitor
Assess
Urgent
THE REPAIR PATHWAY
01
Assess
Identify the cause, extent and repair scope.
02
Prepare
Remove unsound concrete and clean the substrate.
03
Treat steel
Clean, protect or reinstate reinforcement as required.
04
Rebuild
Use compatible repair materials to restore cover.
05
Protect
Address water ingress and apply the right protection system.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Concrete cancer & spalling FAQs
What is concrete cancer?
Concrete cancer is the informal name for damage that occurs when steel reinforcement inside concrete corrodes. Rust expands as it forms, pushing against the surrounding concrete and creating cracks, delamination and loss of cover.
What is concrete spalling?
Concrete spalling is the flaking, cracking or breaking away of a concrete surface. It can be caused by reinforcing steel corrosion, water ingress, impact, poor installation or other durability issues.
Is concrete spalling serious?
It can be. Loose concrete can create a safety risk, while exposed reinforcement allows corrosion to progress. The right response depends on location, extent, moisture exposure and the condition of the steel.
Can concrete cancer be repaired?
Yes. A lasting repair normally involves diagnosing the cause, removing unsound concrete, treating or reinstating reinforcement, rebuilding with compatible repair mortar and controlling future water ingress.
A note on diagnosis
This guide explains common signs of concrete deterioration. A site inspection is needed to confirm the cause, extent and safest repair approach for a specific building.
REQUEST AN ASSESSMENT
Tell us what you have noticed and where. Our team will review your enquiry and discuss the right next step for your property.