Concrete is among the most durable building materials available today. However, concrete can deteriorate if not used and maintained correctly requiring masonry repair in Boston and surrounding cities Although concrete is strong in density, it is relatively weak in tension. To compensate for the imbalance of properties, reinforcing bar, otherwise known as rebar, is often cast into the concrete structure.
Rebar is typically a carbon or steel bar or mesh of steel wires used as a tension device. Used to strengthen and aid the concrete under tension, rebar significantly increases the strength of the structure. However, a typical construction error is insufficient concrete coverage over reinforcing bars. If you notice cracking, surface spalling, or settlement imbalances in your structure, it may be time to consider masonry repair services from Abbot Building Restoration.
Common Errors
Commonly, rust stains on spandrels or columns also indicate inadequate concrete coverage over the rebar. Insufficient coverage can occur for a number of reasons, beginning with the early planning stages of design. If mistakes occur in the original specifications of the structure, design errors often follow. Design errors may also include the absence of drip edges, or expansion and control joints that have incorrect spacing.
Further, construction errors are also a factor when it comes to incorrect concrete coverage. Even with a perfect design, construction errors may occur when what is built deviates from original specifications or standards. Although construction defects cannot be completely corrected, masonry repair services should be utilized to lessen potential damaging effects. If possible, the thickness of the repair concrete should be increased to provide the proper coverage.
Primary Applications
Although the main goal of rebar to support structural support, there are a few different ways masonry construction workers can utilize the reinforcement bars. Primary reinforcement guarantees the resistance needed by the structure as a whole. Whereas secondary reinforcement focuses on a localized area. By creating a localized resistance, you will help to limit cracking and resist stresses such as temperature changes and shrinkage. Further, rebar may also be used to hold other steel bars in the correct position.
Although the most common type of rebar is made from carbon steel, there are several other options as well. Other available types include; stainless steel and composite bars made of glass fiber, carbon fiber, or basalt fiber. These alternative types tend to be more expensive, or may have lesser mechanical properties, and are thus more often used in specialty construction.
If you believe that your rebar has inadequate concrete coverage, contact the professionals at Abbot Building Restoration today to learn about masonry repair in the Boston area. As experts in masonry restoration, repair, and concrete restoration and protection, the professionals will have your building structurally sound for years to come.
