Concrete is trusted across commercial and industrial properties for its durability and strength. Yet, even this robust material can suffer surface deterioration over time, most notably in the form of spalling. Whether it appears as flaky concrete, surface crumbling, or deeper breakages, spalled concrete can compromise both the aesthetics and structural integrity of your building.

If you’ve noticed fragments breaking off your concrete surfaces or patches that appear chipped and worn, you’re likely dealing with concrete spalling. In this article, we’ll break down what causes it, how to identify it early, and how Apolodor Ltd delivers reliable, long-lasting concrete spalling repair services across the UK.

What Is Concrete Spalling?

Concrete spalling refers to the surface breaking, flaking, or crumbling of concrete. It typically appears as shallow patches that peel or chip away, but it can also indicate deeper material degradation, especially if the steel reinforcement (rebar) is exposed.

Spalling commonly affects:

• External facades and balconies

• Multi-storey car park decks and soffits

• Concrete stairs, columns, and beams

• Lift pits, basements, and retaining walls

• Industrial floors and pavements

While often dismissed as cosmetic, spalling can lead to more serious damage if left unaddressed, particularly in load-bearing areas.

What Causes Spalled Concrete?

Understanding the root causes of spalling is key to preventing and repairing it properly. The most common factors include:

1. Reinforcement Corrosion

When moisture and air reach the steel rebar embedded in concrete, rust begins to form. Rust expands and exerts pressure on the surrounding concrete, leading to cracking and eventual surface delamination.

2. Freeze-Thaw Cycles

In outdoor environments, water can seep into tiny cracks or pores in the concrete. When temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands, pushing the surface apart. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles significantly weaken concrete over time.

3. Low-Quality or Poorly Cured Concrete

Inadequate mixing, poor curing practices, or using low-grade materials can lead to weak concrete that is more susceptible to environmental stress and mechanical damage.

4. Chloride Attack

In areas like coastal zones or car parks exposed to de-icing salts, chloride ingress can accelerate corrosion of the reinforcement and surface deterioration.

How to Identify Spalling Early

Detecting spalling early gives you the chance to address the issue before it spreads or becomes hazardous. Signs of spalling include:

• Flaky concrete or patches of loose material

• Discoloured or chalky surface areas

• Small craters or pitted zones

• Rust staining or visible reinforcement

• Drummy (hollow) sound when tapping the surface

If you notice any of these signs on your property, it’s advisable to seek a professional assessment. Spalling doesn’t repair itself—it only worsens without intervention.

Professional Concrete Spalling Repair with Apolodor Ltd

At Apolodor Ltd, we offer expert concrete spalling repair services tailored for commercial and industrial buildings across the UK. Whether you’re dealing with small patches of surface damage or large-scale structural deterioration, our team is equipped to restore your concrete to full function and appearance.

We provide complete diagnostics, material testing, and remediation strategies that align with British Standards and best practice guidance.

For nationwide support, see our full range of concrete repairs in the UK. If you’re based in the capital, we also specialise in concrete repairs in London, offering local service with rapid response options.

Our Repair Process

Our typical repair strategy for spalled concrete UK projects includes:

1. Inspection and Cause Identification

We conduct a site visit to identify the extent of the spalling and investigate underlying causes such as chloride levels, moisture ingress, or carbonation.

2. Concrete Removal and Surface Prep

Damaged and delaminated areas are broken out carefully. We clean exposed rebar and treat it with anti-corrosion coatings if required.

3. Reinstatement

Using high-strength repair mortars or flowable concretes, we rebuild the area to its original shape and structural capacity. For highly exposed areas, protective surface coatings may also be applied.

4. Finishing and Prevention

Where applicable, we apply breathable sealants, waterproof coatings, or anti-carbonation barriers to reduce the risk of future spalling.

Why Choose Apolodor Ltd?

With over 25 years of experience, Apolodor Ltd is trusted by commercial landlords, councils, developers, and facilities managers across the UK. We combine technical expertise with best-in-class materials to ensure durable repairs that stand the test of time.

Our repair services help you:

• Protect structural integrity

• Avoid safety liabilities

• Improve the visual appearance of your building

• Comply with insurance and building regulations

• Extend the lifespan of your concrete assets

We work with minimal disruption and can schedule works around operational hours to suit your business needs.

Don’t Let Spalling Escalate—Act Today

Spalling may begin as a cosmetic concern, but left untreated, it can lead to costly structural damage, especially when reinforcement corrosion is involved. If you’ve noticed signs of flaky concrete or cracking on your property, it’s time to take action.

Contact Apolodor Ltd today to schedule an expert assessment or get a tailored quote for spalling repair. Our team is ready to restore your concrete to safe, professional standards.