Durable concrete repairs

Concrete is a robust and durable building material, but when under constant threat from both the elements and contaminants in the environment, minor imperfections and even major damage can occur, which can lead to structural damage and failure.

It is imperative to establish the cause of the concrete degradation or steel reinforcement corrosion before repairs are carried out. Poor understanding of the cause of the problem can result in inappropriate repairs which will ultimately fail at significant cost.

The successful repair and protection of concrete structures requires professional assessment in an appropriate condition survey. The design, execution and supervision of technically correct principles, and methods for the use of products and systems must be in accordance with European Standard EN 1504 – the British Standard for ‘Products and Systems for the protection and repair of concrete structures‘.

European Standard EN 1504

By introducing and defining the key principles of repair and protection, EN 1504 helps owners and construction professionals to fully understand the requirements of the different stages of the repair and protection process.

It also standardises concrete repair activities and provides an improved framework for achieving successful, durable repairs, helping to ensure good quality repairs and long term protection of the building.

Schematic system of approach

Sika provides all of the necessary products for the repair and protection of concrete in accordance with the Principles and Methods defined in EN 1504. To assist owners, engineers and contractors with the correct selection of repair products, Sika has developed a schematic system of approach, designed to meet the individual requirements of a structure, its exposure and use.

Sika‘s concrete repair and protection solutions are designed to restore concrete surfaces back to their original quality. Concrete repair mortars, anti-corrosion coatings, corrosion inhibitors, reinforcement corrosion protectors and the full Galvashield range of embedded galvanic anodes make up the extensive range that Sika offers. All of these products are backed up by a highly experienced technical team who offer expert specification advice and support.

Renovating concrete tower blocks

A large proportion of social housing in the UK has unfortunately fallen into a state of decay. Premature deterioration, unexpected and uncontrolled cracking caused by corrosion of the reinforced steel, and poor appearance and finish became commonplace as these high rise towers quickly lost their futuristic look.

A good example of the renovation potential of the post-war, modernist tower block is just a stone throw from London’s Columbia Road Flower Market. Designed by renowned architect Berthold Lubetkin in 1958, George Loveless House was suffering from significant structural damage caused by chloride penetration and the subsequent corrosion of the steel reinforcement. Tower Hamlets Homes needed a proven means of repairing the damage and protecting the steel reinforcement in two twelve storey buildings.

A proven long term solution

Following a careful assessment of the properties, the consulting engineers specified a range of concrete repair products from Sika. With the intention of repairing and protecting, the specification included high performance mortars, corrosion management systems and sealants. The concrete repair system specified offered Tower Hamlets Homes a cost-effective and reliable way to repair the damaged areas and extend the life of the building. These systems have an impressive track record which goes back more than 15 years, and conform to the performance requirements of the more recent EN standards..

Preventing the corrosion of steel reinforcement in concrete is essential. Sika’s proven and economic concrete repair system ensures that any structure will be able to stand the rigours of usage for years into the future.

For further information on Sika’s range of concrete repair products, visit www.sikaconstruction.co.uk.

For further information, please contact David Ing at CFA:

Tel +44 (0)1622 754 295
Mob 07802 409 484

david.ing@cfapr.com