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Spalling
Spalling is when concrete flakes or breaks off, often due to freeze-thaw damage or rusting steel.
Why it matters
Spalling shortens concrete life and can expose reinforcement.
Where people get this wrong
Spalling is often a moisture problem, not a simple surface problem. Salt and freeze-thaw cycles make spalling worse.
Real-world example
A garage edge looks like it is peeling in chunks after winters with de-icer salt. That is spalling and it is usually moisture and freeze-thaw at work.
Where this hits your build
This matters during site work and foundation. Mistakes here get buried and are expensive to fix later. Pay attention before concrete is poured.
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