What Causes Concrete Spalling and How to Fix It

January 31, 2025

Dependable and Professional Repairs

Concrete spalling, also known as concrete flaking or scaling, is a common issue that affects both residential and commercial properties. This condition can compromise the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of concrete surfaces, creating an urgent need for repair. At Rock Solid Surfacing, we specialize in addressing spalling with advanced techniques and materials that ensure a durable, long-lasting fix. Understanding the causes of spalling and how to effectively repair it can save property owners time, money, and frustration.


What Is Concrete Spalling?

Spalling occurs when the surface layer of concrete begins to flake, chip, or break away. This condition often starts as small cracks or imperfections but can worsen over time, leading to larger patches of damage. Spalling not only weakens the structural integrity of the concrete but also creates an unsightly appearance, making it especially problematic for high-traffic areas or decorative concrete surfaces.

A group of people are working on a construction site.

What Causes Concrete Spalling?

Several factors can contribute to concrete spalling, including environmental conditions, poor installation practices, and long-term wear and tear. Below are the most common causes:


1. Exposure to Moisture and De-Icing Salts

One of the leading causes of spalling is prolonged exposure to moisture. In areas where de-icing salts are used, such as garages, driveways, and sidewalks, the salts can seep into the concrete and accelerate the deterioration process. This is especially common in colder climates where freeze-thaw cycles occur. As water enters the pores of the concrete, it expands when frozen, creating pressure that leads to cracking and spalling.


2. Rebar Corrosion

Concrete surfaces reinforced with steel rebar are prone to spalling when the rebar begins to corrode. Corrosion causes the rebar to expand, putting pressure on the surrounding concrete and causing it to crack and flake. This issue is more common in older structures where the rebar may not have been adequately coated or protected.

A large house with a concrete driveway leading to it

3. Improper Installation

Poor installation practices, such as using low-quality materials or improper mixing ratios, can make concrete more susceptible to spalling. Inadequate curing or finishing techniques may also leave the surface weak and vulnerable to damage over time.


4. Environmental Stress

Constant exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, or heavy rain, can weaken concrete over time. UV radiation and temperature fluctuations can also cause the surface to expand and contract, leading to cracks and eventual spalling.


5. Heavy Traffic and Wear

High-traffic areas, whether in a commercial or residential setting, experience significant wear and tear. Repeated impact and friction from vehicles, equipment, or foot traffic can erode the concrete surface, making it more prone to spalling.

An empty parking garage with lots of lights on the ceiling.

3. Improper Installation

Poor installation practices, such as using low-quality materials or improper mixing ratios, can make concrete more susceptible to spalling. Inadequate curing or finishing techniques may also leave the surface weak and vulnerable to damage over time.


4. Environmental Stress

Constant exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, or heavy rain, can weaken concrete over time. UV radiation and temperature fluctuations can also cause the surface to expand and contract, leading to cracks and eventual spalling.


5. Heavy Traffic and Wear

High-traffic areas, whether in a commercial or residential setting, experience significant wear and tear. Repeated impact and friction from vehicles, equipment, or foot traffic can erode the concrete surface, making it more prone to spalling.

A person is pouring concrete into a concrete block.

How Rock Solid Surfacing Fixes Spalling

At Rock Solid Surfacing, we take a proactive and thorough approach to repairing concrete spalling. Our proprietary polyurea crack repair product is specifically designed to address the root causes of spalling, ensuring a permanent and durable solution.



1. Moisture-Activated Polyurea Repair

Our advanced polyurea repair material penetrates deep into the concrete’s pores and bonds with the substrate. This moisture-activated technology ensures that the repair material becomes part of the concrete itself, creating a seamless and long-lasting fix.


2. Complete Crack Filling

Unlike surface-level repairs, we fill cracks and voids completely, from top to bottom. This prevents moisture and de-icing salts from seeping back into the concrete, effectively halting the progression of spalling.

A large empty room with a black floor and white walls.

3. Smoothing and Resurfacing

Once the polyurea has cured, we sand the surface smooth to prepare it for a decorative or protective topcoat. This step ensures that the repair is virtually invisible, leaving the surface looking like new.


4. Protective Coatings

After repairing the spalling, we apply a durable polyurea coating to protect the surface from future damage. Our coatings are resistant to UV radiation, moisture, and heavy traffic, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications.

A large house with a blue roof is sitting on a lush green lawn.

Why Choose Rock Solid Surfacing?

Spalling can significantly impact the appearance and functionality of your concrete surfaces, but with Rock Solid Surfacing, you do not have to settle for temporary fixes. Our cutting-edge polyurea technology ensures a long-lasting repair that addresses the underlying causes of spalling, not just the symptoms.


By choosing Rock Solid Surfacing, you benefit from:


  • Minimal Downtime: Our fast-curing solutions reduce disruption to your daily activities.
  • Eco-Friendly Products: Our coatings have zero VOCs, making them safe for the environment and your property.
  • Custom Finishes: We offer decorative options, including custom graphics, to restore beauty and functionality to your surfaces.


Concrete spalling is more than just an aesthetic issue—it can lead to costly repairs and compromise the safety of your property. Understanding the causes of spalling and addressing them with advanced solutions is essential for maintaining the integrity of your concrete surfaces. At Rock Solid Surfacing, we are committed to providing long-lasting, eco-friendly repairs that protect and enhance your investment.



If you are dealing with spalling or want to learn more about our polyurea solutions, contact Rock Solid Surfacing today. Let us help you restore your concrete to its former glory with innovative, durable, and sustainable methods.

a tunnel under a bridge.
A fire hydrant is sitting in the snow under a bridge.
A dirty concrete floor with a lot of rocks on it
cracked concrete
A group of people are standing around a pallet in a warehouse.
A building under construction with concrete columns and brick walls
A close up of a set of stairs leading up to a building.

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