Concrete Spalling vs Scaling: What's the Difference?

Concrete Spalling vs Scaling: What's the Difference?

Scaling and spalling are both concrete surface problems but differ in severity. Scaling is light peeling of the surface cream. Spalling is deeper chunks popping out. Understanding the difference helps you assess damage severity.

Scaling: Light Peeling

Scaling is surface-level damage:

• Light peeling: Surface layer peels away
• Surface cream: Only affects the smooth surface layer
• Cosmetic: Mostly cosmetic issue
• Less severe: Not structural problem

Spalling: Deeper Chunks

Spalling is more serious:

• Deeper chunks: Larger pieces break away
• Below surface: Goes deeper than surface
• Exposes aggregate: Rocks become visible
• More serious: Can be structural concern

Key Differences

Depth: Scaling is surface; spalling is deeper

Severity: Scaling is cosmetic; spalling can be structural

Repair: Scaling easier to fix; spalling requires more work

The Bottom Line

Scaling is light peeling of the surface cream—cosmetic and surface-level. Spalling is deeper chunks popping out—more serious and potentially structural. Both are caused by freeze-thaw cycles, but spalling indicates more severe damage. Identify which you have to determine appropriate repair.

Have scaling or spalling? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We can assess the damage and recommend the right repair solution.