Beyond being unsightly, cracks in concrete structures allow for contaminant intrusion causing possible shrinkage and deterioration. A severe crack left unrepaired can lead to corrosion of steel frames, causing the instability of a concrete structure. To find out more about what makes a concrete crack a serious issue or simply cosmetic, Host Joe Shuffleton speaks with Senior Registered Engineer Bobby Radcliff. Bobby has evaluated hundreds of buildings in his over 15 years of industry experience.
[1:09] The three types of shrinkage cracks and how to determine if a crack in concrete is structural or cosmetic.
[3:06] How chlorides and other contaminants cause corrosion in a structure’s steel frame.
[4:43] A crack in concrete is akin to an open wound in the structure.
[6:41] Understanding freeze-thaw cracks, restraint cracks, and other common causes of concrete cracks.
[12:06] Examining the possible hazards if cracks in concrete are left unrepaired.
[14:04] Evaluating cracks in concrete structures.
[17:32] Repair options, maintenance cycles, and subsequent protection for concrete cracks.
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