Are you noticing a deterioration in the quality of your home’s foundation? Are small pieces falling off, or have chips, cracks, and pits appeared where none were present? If so, your home may be suffering from spalling concrete. Spalling is when hardened concrete’s outer surface erodes due to poor installation techniques or a combination of weather conditions such as freezing temperatures, moisture, and salt erosion.

Fortunately, this problem can be addressed with prompt attention and good maintenance practices. This article will explore how spalling concrete occurs, how to diagnose its signs and symptoms on your property’s foundation walls, and what repair options exist. Keep reading to find out more about how to fix spalling concrete foundation!
9 Best Ways on How to Fix Spalling Concrete Foundation
1. Caulk and Seal Cracks:
The first step to fixing spalling concrete is to address any existing cracks or gaps in the foundation walls. These can be filled or sealed with a quality caulk that is designed for foundations and other masonry surfaces. This will provide additional protection against moisture infiltration and help prevent further damage from occurring.
2. Apply a Concrete Bonding Agent:
A concrete bonding agent can be applied to the spalling areas to help fill in any minor cracks or gaps. This will also increase the surface adhesion of any new concrete that is applied, allowing it to bond better with the existing material and create a more reliable patch. If you use a concrete bonding agent, make sure it is compatible with your environment’s existing concrete and weather conditions.
3. Use a Radon Membrane:
Installing a radon membrane may be a good option if you’re dealing with spalling due to radon gas. This will help reduce the amount of radon gas that seeps into your home from the soil and prevent further erosion of the foundation walls. Using random membranes is an effective way to reduce and even eliminate hazardous gases from your home.
4. Add a Waterproofing Membrane:
If your spalling is due to excessive moisture, then adding a waterproof membrane to the exterior of your foundation walls can help protect them from further damage. This will also keep water out and reduce the chances of future erosion or deterioration. Add a waterproofing membrane over the entire surface of your foundation walls for added protection.
5. Apply Epoxy Injections:

Epoxy injections are a great option for filling in any existing cracks or gaps in the foundation walls. This will not only help to strengthen the concrete, but it will also provide additional waterproofing protection and increase its overall durability.
6. Install Foam Insulation Board:
If your spalling is due to cold temperatures, then installing a foam insulation board can help protect the foundation walls from further damage. This will also reduce energy costs by keeping your home warmer in the winter months and cooler in the summer months.
7. Apply a Masonry Patch:
If the spalling is only affecting a very small area, then you may be able to patch it with some masonry material. This will help reinforce the area and keep it from further damage. Just make sure that the patch material is compatible with your existing foundation type before applying it.
8. Replace Damaged Sections:
If the spalling is extremely severe, then replacing entire sections of your foundation walls may be necessary. This will ensure that all the damaged areas are fully addressed and prevent further deterioration. When replacing damaged sections, make sure that you use the same type of concrete and other materials as the original foundation.
9. Install an Exterior Drain System:
Finally, installing an exterior drain system may be a good option if you’re dealing with spalling due to excessive moisture. This will help redirect any water away from the foundation walls and keep them protected from further erosion.
These are just some of the ways that you can fix spalling concrete foundations. It’s important to address this issue as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and costly repairs. If the problem persists, be sure to contact a professional for an assessment and repair plan.
Other Tips and Tricks to Fix Spalling Concrete Foundation

- Use a stiff brush and detergent to clean the concrete surface and remove any dirt, debris, or other contaminants. This will make it easier for the patching material to adhere properly.
- If the spalled area is large enough, consider renting a commercial grinder to level out the uneven surface and make it easier to apply the patch.
- To ensure proper adhesion, use a bonding agent when applying the patching material to the concrete foundation.
- Use multiple thin layers of patching material rather than one thick layer, and give each layer plenty of time to dry before adding another coat. This will help prevent premature cracking or flaking.
- Seal the area with a waterproof sealant to prevent further water damage and spalling.
- Consider adding insulation or other climate control measures to your foundation in order to reduce or eliminate moisture problems that can cause concrete spalling in the first place.
- If you notice any other structural damage or deterioration signs, contact a licensed professional to assess the situation and make appropriate repairs. This will help ensure your foundation stays in tip-top shape for years to come.
These tips and tricks can help you quickly and easily fix spalling concrete foundations! You can maintain a strong, secure foundation for your home or business with proper care and maintenance.
Precautions Need to Follow for Fixing Spalling Concrete Foundation

- Ensure that the area around the spalled foundation is clear of debris and loose stone.
- Wear protective gear such as gloves, mask, and goggles to protect against dust and particles when chipping away any concrete that needs to be replaced.
- Carefully chip away the deteriorated concrete with a hammer, chisel, or other suitable tools.
- Inspect the area for any other damages or weak spots that may need repair.
- Mix the concrete patching compound according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spread it over the affected area with a trowel.
- Smooth out the patching compound with a finishing trowel so that the patch is even with the existing surface.
- Allow the patching compound to dry completely before painting or sealing it with a waterproof sealant.
- Apply any necessary reinforcements to strengthen weakened areas of the foundation, such as steel bars or mesh fabric.
- Ensure that all repairs are done securely and properly to prevent future spalling incidents.
- Regularly monitor the foundation and make sure to address any new signs of deterioration or damage immediately.
With these precautions in place, you can easily fix spalling concrete foundation and restore your home to its original condition. Proper maintenance and inspection will also help prevent further deterioration of the foundation. If done properly, you should be able to get years of use out of your repaired concrete foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Concrete Spalling?
The corrosion of embedded steel reinforcement and freeze-thaw damage cause concrete spalling. Corrosion occurs when moisture and salts penetrate through cracks in the concrete, causing the metal to corrode. This process weakens the strength of the concrete, leading to spalling. Freeze-thaw damage occurs when moisture penetrates the concrete and then freezes, causing the water to expand and push against the concrete surface, resulting in cracking or spalling.
What Are The Signs of Spalling Concrete?
The most obvious sign of spalling is visible cracks or chips in the concrete surface. In addition, the edges of the concrete may appear rough or uneven, and discoloration due to staining can also indicate spalling.
What Are The Benefits Of Fixing Spalling Concrete?
Fixing spalling concrete prevents further deterioration, which can lead to dangerous conditions and costly repairs. Not only that but repairing spalling concrete also improves the overall appearance of your foundation, making it look better and increasing its longevity.
Are There Long-Term Solutions For Spalling Concrete?
Yes, there are long-term solutions for spalling concrete that can help reduce or eliminate future repairs. You should consider waterproofing your foundation or coating it with a sealant to address underlying issues such as freeze-thaw damage and corrosion.

This will help prevent moisture from entering and causing further damage. Additionally, it’s important to keep the area around your foundation clean and free of debris, such as leaves or mud, which can contribute to corrosion over time.
Conclusion
To recap, fixing spalling concrete foundations requires proper preparation and research. You should always use the right materials for the job and consider any hazardous factors that might arise during or after the repair process. Additionally, it is essential to employ a professional who deeply understands how to fix spalling concrete foundation correctly, as this is critical for any repair. Caring for your concrete foundation properly through knowledgeable repairs like these can help you save on costly replacements over time.
However, replacement may be better if your repair involves structural damages such as fractures or corroded reinforcing bars. Maintaining a safe and sound home is essential for long-term satisfaction, so take time today to ensure your concrete foundation is in solid shape. Fixing spalling concrete foundations can appear daunting at first; however, if you are given the right resources and knowledge, you’ll have the power to tackle the problem with ease.