Concrete Delamination: Causes and Cures

Concrete Delamination: Causes and Cures

Delamination is the top layer separating from the concrete. It's caused by troweling too early (trapping bleed water). Must grind off and resurface. Understanding delamination helps you prevent it and fix it properly.

What is Delamination?

Delamination is:

• Top layer separating: Surface layer detaches
• Weak bond: Poor bond between layers
• Hollow sound: Tapping sounds hollow
• Will fail: Layer will eventually come off

What Causes It?

Delamination is caused by:

• Troweling too early: Troweling before bleed water rises
• Trapping water: Troweling traps water under surface
• Weak bond: Trapped water prevents proper bonding
• Improper timing: Timing of finishing operations

How to Fix

Must grind off and resurface:

1. Grind off delaminated layer: Remove loose surface layer
2. Clean surface: Clean thoroughly
3. Prepare for resurfacing: Prepare for overlay
4. Apply overlay: Apply concrete overlay/resurfacer
5. Finish: Finish new surface

Prevention

Prevent delamination by:

• Wait for bleed water: Let bleed water rise and evaporate
• Proper timing: Don't trowel too early
• Check surface: Ensure surface is ready before troweling

The Bottom Line

Delamination is top layer separating, caused by troweling too early and trapping bleed water. Must grind off delaminated layer and resurface. Prevent by waiting for bleed water to rise and evaporate before troweling. Proper timing prevents delamination.

Have delamination? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We can grind and resurface properly to fix delaminated concrete.