Spalling: Are You Prepared to Face the Potential Consequences?

Just a few short months ago, professional engineers attributed the collapse of the Champlain Towers South Condominium to concrete spalling highlighting the deadly effects of ignoring standard building maintenance. Since the Surfside tragedy many Community Association clients have asked, “What is Spalling?” “Spalling” is a term of art created by the building trades to describe the cracking, flaking, and braking of concrete from the greater portion of a concrete slab. Now you may be thinking how does this “Spalling” happen and what can I do to prevent it.

UNDERSTANDING SPALLING

While serious, spalling can be repaired as shown in the before and after photos of a Fort Lauderdale condomium.

Concrete reinforced with steel is a heroic, super-durable combination. Concrete and steel materials each contain structural qualities that compensate for the other’s weaknesses. Unfortunately, like every superhero, there are weaknesses. Concrete contains embedded steel reinforcing to provide necessary structural integrity which can corrode causing exterior concrete deterioration. When concrete is poured over steel, the steel becomes oxidized providing a protective layer around the steel bars inside. Over time external environmental conditions can cause carbonation and chloride contamination to weaken the oxidation allowing the corrosion process to begin. The corrosion causes the steel bars to increase in size creating substantial pressure within the concrete. This internal pressure creates the visible exterior cracking and eventual concrete “Spalling” that Florida’s many beachfront property owners loathe. 

Falling, spalled concrete can become an imminent danger to public and private property. When ignored, the continued corrosion of steel reinforcing can compromise the structural integrity and create irreparable harm. The cost of repair will continually escalate from the moment the corrosion begins. As time passes, the rate of corrosion increases, exposing more areas of unprotected steel and skyrocketing the cost of repair. “Spalling” can be repaired or prevented if there is a process in place to systemically inspect and maintain the property using proper, qualified experts. Without these protocols, you may someday find your property in need of highly expensive repairs, or in extreme situations condemned. If you suspect that your property may have “Spalling” contact Larry Moskowitz, PA for a free property inspection by our qualified experts. 

To learn more about what the property damage law experts at Windy Law can do for you - give us a call at 844-849-0760 or email us at info@WindyLaw.com.
All consultations are free of charge: No recovery - No fee!