Why Concrete Spalting Is a Dangerous Sign

​Concrete spalting is a dangerous sign that should not be ignored. In fact, it can be the sign of a much larger problem with your foundation and could indicate that the structure of your building or home is in danger if left unchecked.
For those unfamiliar with concrete spalting, this occurs when fungi and bacteria enter cracks or pores in concrete surfaces and begin to feed on whatever material they find there. Over time, as the microorganisms grow, they produce discolored patches and growths on the surface of the concrete. While these spots may appear harmless at first glance, they are actually a telltale warning sign that something deeper might be wrong with your foundation.
Concrete spalting is most commonly caused by moisture seeping into your foundation through cracks or other openings in its surface. This often happens due to improper drainage or water damage from storms. As the moisture builds up, it creates an ideal environment for fungal growth which weakens the concrete and eventually leads to crumbling or crumbling-and-shifting foundations.
The dangers of concrete spalting shouldn’t be taken lightly as it can lead to serious structural problems down the line if left untreated for too long. If you notice any signs of fungal growth or discoloration on any part of your home’s foundation, then it’s important to act quickly and contact an experienced contractor immediately as this could mean more extensive repair work will need to be done before things get worse.
In addition to being an indicator that something is wrong with your foundation, concrete spalting can also signal potential health risks for people who come into contact with it. The fungi involved in producing this kind of discoloration are typically dermatophytes which release spores into the air which can cause skin irritation when breathed in over extended periods of time. Even minor contact with affected areas should be avoided altogether if possible due to potential health risks associated with them.
Ultimately, if you suspect any sort of fungal growth or discoloration around your home’s foundation – no matter how small – then don’t ignore it! It’s better to take action now rather than risk further damage later on down the road. Be sure to contact an experienced professional who can assess what exactly is causing your problem and help you develop a plan for safely addressing any issues that arise so that you can protect yourself and your property from further harm caused by concrete spalting!