What is the Difference Between Cracking and Spalling in Concrete?

Learn what causes spalling & cracking in concrete, how to repair it & how to prevent it from happening again.

What is the Difference Between Cracking and Spalling in Concrete?
Introduction: Have you ever noticed your concrete driveway or sidewalk start to crumble and break away? This is called spalling.

What Causes Concrete Spalling?

Concrete spalling is the result of a breach in the concrete's surface that allows tiny pieces of concrete to break off and fall to the ground. The most common cause of spalling is water damage. When water seeps into the concrete, it causes swelling and expansion of the material. This pressure causes small cracks to form in the concrete, and eventually, the cracks become large enough to allow pieces of concrete to break off.

How to Repair Spalling Concrete

Cracking is a type of damage that is caused when the concrete surface begins to separate from the underlying concrete. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including water damage, freeze-thaw damage, and poor construction. Spalling is a type of damage that is caused when the concrete surface breaks away in large pieces. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including water damage, freeze-thaw damage, and poor construction.

What Is the Difference Between Spalling and Cracking?

Cracking is a process where the surface of material breaks into small pieces or flakes. Spalling is a process where the surface of material breaks into large pieces that can fall off.

How to Prevent Spalling and Cracking in Concrete

The two common types of damage to the concrete are spalling and cracking. Spalling is when tiny pieces of concrete break off and fall to the ground. Cracking is when the concrete starts to split into small pieces. Both of these problems can be prevented by following a few simple steps. First, make sure the concrete is dry before you start working on it. If it's wet, the concrete will react with the chemicals in the paint and seal the cracks in the surface. Second, use coarse sandpaper to rough up the surface of the concrete. This will help prevent small pieces from breaking off and falling to the ground. Finally, use a sealer to protect the concrete from moisture and weather damage. Spalling and cracking in concrete are both common problems. By knowing how to identify and fix them, you can keep your concrete looking great for years to come.