Why concrete fails — and why it matters

Concrete looks solid, but once water gets in, it starts breaking down from the inside. Rusting steel expands, cracks widen, and pieces of concrete start to spall and fall. Left untreated, this not only looks bad — it can make balconies unsafe, weaken beams, and drive up repair costs.

For strata managers and owners, concrete cancer also means insurance risks, resident complaints, and engineers warning that the problem is spreading.

The solution: structural repair done right

At Atomic Projects, we treat the cause, not just the symptom. We remove damaged concrete, clean and protect reinforcement, and reinstate the structure with repair mortars and protective coatings. The result is a building that regains its strength, safety, and appearance — and stops corrosion in its tracks.

Our Concrete Repair Process

1. Investigation & Mapping

• Survey cracks, spalls, and delamination.
• Identify water ingress pathways and chloride damage.
• Engineer review for scope and design.

2. Breakout & Preparation

• Remove loose concrete to expose reinforcement.
• Chase cracks and defective joints.
• Blast and clean steel back to bright metal.

3. Steel Treatment

• Apply anti-corrosion primers to reinforcement.
• Ensure correct cover depth for long-term protection.

4. Reinstatement

• Place high-strength repair mortars or micro-concretes.
• Restore cover, strength, and durability.

5. Protective Coatings

• Anti-carbonation coatings, waterproof membranes, or sealers.
• Extend life by blocking CO₂, chlorides, and water.

6. QA & Testing

• Adhesion pull-off tests, cover meter checks, and photo logs.
• Engineer and client sign-off.

Common structural problems we solve

• Spalling “concrete cancer” with rust stains.
• Cracks in slabs, beams, and balconies.
• Delamination and falling concrete.
• Corroded lintels and load-bearing members.
• Failed patch repairs from previous contractors.

Why Atomic Projects?

• Engineer-backed approach: We work closely with consultants for compliance and peace of mind.
• Quality-first repairs: Every defect mapped, logged, and repaired to standard.
• Durability guaranteed: Protective coatings stop corrosion returning.
• Live-building expertise: We stage works safely around residents and tenants.

The outcome

Concrete that looks new, is structurally sound, and won’t keep spalling. Residents feel safe, engineers sign off with confidence, and managers know the building is protected for decades.

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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