What is sulphate attack to floors?

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Sulphate attack causes damage to the concrete that forms solid ground floors in properties built post Second World War, up until the 1970’s. However, as is always the case with building construction, these dates are approximate and properties from other periods can also be affected.

Sulphate attack is caused by salts, which usually come from the hardcore fill below the concrete slab, or from the ground, being transferred into the concrete. The salts are dissolved in water and react with the cement to form crystals. This reaction damages the concrete.

The damage occurs over a long period of time and can be very severe. In general terms the concrete degrades and usually expands which may cause unevenness to the floor and sometimes a distinct large ‘hump’. External walls may also be forced out by the expansion of the floor.

What are the signs of sulphate attack?

Unevenness to the floor.
Deterioration and cracking of the floor surface sometimes with the presence of white powder.
Outward movement of the external walls below damp proof course level and/or cracking of brickwork.

Dealing with problem

Sulphate attack to a floor is serious, but much depends on the severity of the damage. In order to assess the extent of the problem, you will need specialist advice which will almost always result in some further investigations. In serious cases, the entire floor slab may require removal and replacement together with addressing any other issues, such as the source of the water, which contributed to the original problem. External walls may also need repair. The cost of these repairs can be quite significant.

Additional Note:

This blog deals with sulphate attack in concrete floors but sulphate attack is a reaction between sulphates and cement. As cement is widely used in building construction, other parts of a building can be subject to sulphate attack such a chimneys.

Survey

If you are buying a property, then forewarned is forearmed. A property purchase is the largest financial decision most of us will make in our lifetime and it makes sense to check that the investment is sound. having a survey done can alert you to any potential issues and put you in a strong position to either renegotiate the price or as for works to be completed before you buy.

Avery & Co is a family owned and run firm that covers the North West and North Wales. Our surveyors are all RICS registered and have a great understanding of the area they cover. They are friendly, approachable and happy to discuss the findings of the report with you. Get in touch to book your survey with a firm that cares: Contact us here or call 0330 088 5040

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Note for Level 3 (Building) Survey enquiries.

Beware of cut-price fee quotes.

I accept that the information entered on this form will be stored and used for Avery to contact me.

What is sulphate attack to floors?