Concrete spalling (or “concrete cancer”) is one of the most serious balcony defects. It occurs when moisture and oxygen reach the steel reinforcement inside the slab, causing it to corrode and expand. This expansion cracks the surrounding concrete, leading to both structural weakness and safety risks.
Common Causes of Spalling:
- Failed waterproofing allowing water into the slab.
- Inadequate concrete cover to reinforcement.
- Chloride attack (often from marine environments).
- Age-related deterioration or poor workmanship at construction.
Our Process:
- Inspection & Marking
- Tap testing and visual surveys to identify hollow or delaminated zones.
- Map the extent of affected areas.
- Breakout & Preparation
- Carefully remove all unsound concrete.
- Expose corroded reinforcement without damaging surrounding slab.
- Steel Treatment
- Mechanically clean reinforcement to bare metal.
- Apply anti-corrosion primer to prevent further rusting.
- Concrete Repair
- Patch with high-strength repair mortars designed for structural restoration.
- Build back to original profiles and ensure bond to surrounding concrete.
- Protection & Integration
- Seal with compatible coatings or membranes.
- Tie into balcony waterproofing and screeds for long-term defence.
Why Concrete Repair is Essential:
- Safety – Spalled balconies pose fall and collapse risks if ignored.
- Compliance – Restores structural adequacy to meet building codes.
- Prevention – Stops further reinforcement corrosion and progressive damage.
- Value Preservation – Protects property value by addressing visible “concrete cancer” before it spreads.
Concrete spalling is not cosmetic — it’s structural. Early detection and proper remediation save owners from major reconstruction costs and safety incidents down the line.
If you’re ready to get started, we're ready to help.
Take the next step and let’s build something that lasts.
📞 Call Us: 0410 515 509
✉️ Email Us: hello@atomicprojects.com.au
— Ben Tran, General Manager, Atomic Projects
