In Quebec, it is not uncommon to see foundations showing many signs of fatigue. Cracks in the foundation and crumbling concrete are often the consequence of an aging home, but the age of the structure is not the only cause of these anomalies.
Learn about the causes of concrete crumbling on your foundation and the solutions you can find to avoid the disastrous consequences of such a problem.
Concrete Crumbling on Foundations: Causes and Consequences
Crumbling is when the concrete used to build the foundation begins to disintegrate. The appearance of dust and the gradual detachment of rubble can mean that the concrete is starting to weaken and that it is necessary to think about an adequate treatment to strengthen it.
Causes of Concrete Crumbling
The crumbling of concrete is often the consequence of harsh climatic conditions and the effect of time. The age of a construction associated with the periods of freezing and thawing that Quebec experiences is a factor that has a direct influence on the solidity of a concrete structure.
The manufacture of concrete is also a determining factor in the strength of the structure. Over the years, the manufacturing techniques for this material have made significant progress, offering greater reliability and longevity to concrete structures.
Unfortunately in Quebec, it is not uncommon to see constructions from the previous century. These homes have problems related to the quality of the concrete, which is much higher than on new constructions. As a result, many owners of older homes see their assets deteriorate over the years.
Consequences of Concrete Crumbling
The crumbling of the concrete of a foundation is therefore a recurring problem, particularly in Quebec where the climate is harsh. Less dense concrete becomes porous, which encourages water infiltration, making the concrete more brittle. It loses some of its strength, cracks and crumbles, weakening the structural strength of the entire building.
Without the intervention of a professional, the continual weakening of the concrete structure can cause the total or partial collapse of a wall, and endanger its occupants.
How to react to the crumbling of your concrete foundation?
Concrete crumbling: How do you know?
First of all, you can perform a very simple test to ensure the solidity of your foundation: the hammer test. This involves holding a flat screwdriver against the wall and hitting it with a hammer. If the screwdriver easily sinks in 2 or 3 inches, then you may doubt the strength of your concrete.
Also consider performing a water infiltration test to find out if your home is subject to high humidity that could weaken the concrete.
Have your structure repaired by a professional
There comes a time when repairing your foundation is necessary to sustainably consolidate the building. This repair starts with reinforcing the concrete with a specially adapted sealant. Beforehand, it will be necessary to clean the crumbling particles and dry the surface so that the application of the finishing product is optimal.
Restoring the solidity of the structure is the desired effect of a specialized company that will carry out the repair. Improper placement will result in the damaged structure not being effectively sealed. The repair will therefore have no impact on the problems encountered or on the durability of the structure.
Crumbling of foundation concrete, like cracks, is not a very dangerous problem when taken care of quickly. Don’t wait to react, because the more time passes, the more disastrous the problem could have on the structure of your home. Get in touch with a specialist to examine the crumbling problems in your structure. He or she will be able to advise you on how to consolidate your home.
Need a Crack Repair Expert?
If you notice cracks on your foundation, it is important to act quickly. Fissure Expert offers professional foundation crack injection services throughout Quebec. Call a certified foundation crack contractor for a free estimate. We serve Sherbrooke, Trois-Rivières, Chicoutimi and several other cities.