Can all deteriorated concrete be identified before construction?

No. Some deterioration remains concealed until demolition begins. Initial investigations can establish anticipated repair areas, but the actual extent may increase or change once deteriorated concrete is removed and reinforcing steel is exposed.

What is concrete delamination?

Delamination is a separation within the concrete, frequently near reinforcing steel. The surface may remain in place even though it has partially separated from sound concrete beneath it. Delaminated areas can eventually progress to spalling.

What is concrete spalling?

Concrete spalling occurs when portions of concrete break away or detach. In parking structures, it is commonly associated with reinforcing-steel corrosion, moisture, chlorides or other deterioration mechanisms.

Why is reinforcing-steel corrosion important during rehabilitation?

Corrosion can contribute to concrete cracking, delamination and spalling and, where sufficiently advanced, can reduce the cross-sectional area of reinforcement. Rehabilitation should therefore consider both the deteriorated concrete and the condition of the reinforcing steel.

How is deteriorated concrete repaired?

The specific method depends on the condition. Typically, deteriorated concrete is removed to an appropriate substrate, exposed reinforcement is evaluated and prepared, and compatible repair materials are installed according to the project requirements.

What happens if significant reinforcement corrosion is discovered?

The exposed reinforcement should be evaluated. Depending on the extent of deterioration, the rehabilitation design may require cleaning, treatment, supplemental reinforcement, replacement or additional structural evaluation.

Why are de-icing salts a major concern in parking garages?

Vehicles carry chloride-contaminated snow and water into parking garages during winter. Chlorides can penetrate concrete and contribute to reinforcing-steel corrosion, making water and salt management an important part of parking structure rehabilitation in Quebec.

Should rehabilitation address only damaged concrete?

Not necessarily. Replacing deteriorated concrete without addressing the mechanisms contributing to the damage can allow deterioration to continue. A broader strategy may need to consider waterproofing, drainage, joints and chloride exposure.

Why are waterproofing membranes important in parking garages?

Traffic-bearing waterproofing membranes help reduce the penetration of water and de-icing salts into concrete slabs. Maintaining or restoring this protection can be an important part of extending the service life of repaired concrete.

When should a parking garage membrane be replaced?

Replacement may be appropriate when a membrane exhibits significant wear, loss of adhesion, cracking, widespread damage or other deficiencies affecting its intended performance. The decision should consider both the membrane condition and the underlying structure.

FAQs Archive - Page 7 of 95

Can all deteriorated concrete be identified before construction?
What is concrete delamination?
What is concrete spalling?
Why is reinforcing-steel corrosion important during rehabilitation?
How is deteriorated concrete repaired?
What happens if significant reinforcement corrosion is discovered?
Why are de-icing salts a major concern in parking garages?
Should rehabilitation address only damaged concrete?
Why are waterproofing membranes important in parking garages?
When should a parking garage membrane be replaced?

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