Spalling decking of a building
Spalling occurs under a decking when it starts to fall in parts thereby exposing the iron rods used for the decking.
Builders and civil engineer say there are various factors can lead to this problem, but it could have been avoided if the project was handled by a more qualified professional.
Whereas some experts say in most cases, choosing cheap options often results in higher expenses in the long run which will lead to spalling after some years, here are some potential causes of this failure:
- Insufficient Concrete Cover
This occurs when reinforcement rods are not adequately spaced from the wooden formwork using spacers (commonly referred to as “concrete biscuits”). These spacers provide the necessary concrete cover to protect the rods. Without them, the rods may become exposed, leading to spalling.
- Incorrect Mix Ratio
If the proportions of cement, sand, and aggregate are not accurately measured, the resulting concrete can be weak, which may cause leakages or cracks.
- Lack of Supervision by a Professional
Quality control is essential and should be overseen by an experienced professional who understands the intricacies of construction. Without proper supervision, artisans may make critical errors during the casting process.
- Poor Construction Practices
Practices such as inadequate compaction, improper curing (failing to wet the cast concrete), or using contaminated aggregates can result in weak or permeable concrete, leading to spalling.
©️ David Inusa Ahmed
