How Does Concrete Cancer Affect Structural Integrity?
Concrete is one of the most durable and widely used construction materials in Australia. From residential homes to high-rise buildings and coastal infrastructure, it forms the backbone of modern structures. However, even the strongest materials are vulnerable to deterioration. One of the most serious issues affecting reinforced concrete is commonly known as concrete cancer . Understanding how this condition develops, how it compromises structural integrity, and why timely concrete cancer repairs are essential is critical for property owners, strata managers, and builders—particularly in coastal environments such as Queensland. What Is Concrete Cancer? Concrete cancer is a term used to describe the corrosion of steel reinforcement within concrete structures. Reinforced concrete contains steel bars (rebar) embedded inside it to provide tensile strength. Over time, moisture, oxygen, and salts penetrate the concrete and cause the steel reinforcement to rust. As the steel corrodes, it expa...
