Concrete Corrosion in Florida Explained

Concrete is a popular material for building, but in Florida’s coastal areas, it faces a serious problem—corrosion. Due to the high levels of saltwater exposure, salinity, and the presence of chlorides in the air, concrete structures like foundations and seawalls can begin to break down.

Over time, this corrosion can weaken buildings and cause costly damage if not addressed. In this blog, we’ll explain how concrete corrosion happens in Florida and how to protect your property from these harmful effects.

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What is Concrete Corrosion?

Concrete corrosion refers to the gradual breakdown of concrete caused by corrosive elements. In Florida, saltwater exposure is a major factor in this process.

Seawater contains chloride ions that penetrate concrete and attack the steel reinforcement inside, causing it to rust. This rust expands, creating cracks in the concrete that allow even more moisture and chemicals to enter, making the damage worse.

Major Causes: Saltwater Exposure and High Chloride Content

Saltwater exposure is a major cause of concrete corrosion, especially in Florida’s coastal areas. The saltwater here contains chloride ions, which are tiny particles that can harm concrete. When these chloride ions get into the concrete, they reach the steel bars inside and cause rusting.

This rust weakens the concrete and can cause cracks and damage. Florida’s coastal areas face even more risks because of high salinity levels, which speed up the corrosion process.

Saltwater and Its Impact on Concrete

Saltwater contains chloride ions that damage concrete. When saltwater comes into contact with concrete, the chloride ions seep into the material through small cracks or pores. These ions weaken the protective layer around the steel reinforcement bars (rebar) inside the concrete, causing the steel to rust.

As the rust expands, it exerts pressure on the surrounding concrete, causing it to crack and spall. In Florida’s coastal areas, where saltwater is regularly present, the corrosion process happens more quickly.

Florida’s Coastal Areas and Increased Risk

Florida’s coastal areas are at a higher risk for concrete corrosion because they are surrounded by saltwater from both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Regular rising tides and high humidity, coupled with frequent storms, allow saltwater to easily reach the concrete,. The higher salinity in Florida’s coastal waters means the corrosion process happens even faster, causing concrete to break down more quickly.

How to Combat Coastal Concrete Corrosion in Florida

While concrete corrosion can be a big concern, there are several ways to protect concrete from damage:

Use of Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Adding special additives and coatings to concrete makes it more resistant to saltwater and chloride exposure, protecting the steel inside and extending the structure’s life.
Protective Coatings and Sealants: Sealants create a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture and salt from entering, helping protect both new and old concrete surfaces from corrosion.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Regular inspections help catch early signs of corrosion, such as cracks or discoloration, allowing for timely concrete lifting repairs before damage worsens.
Use of High-Performance Concrete: High-performance concrete is designed to resist saltwater damage and lasts longer in areas with high salt exposure, offering better protection than standard concrete.
Proper Drainage Systems: Installing proper drainage systems directs water away from concrete foundations, reducing the risk of saltwater pooling and minimizing corrosion.

Protect Your Concrete With Alpha Foundations

Alpha Foundations crewman sealing concrete with caulk.

Concrete corrosion is a major issue in Florida, especially near the coast where saltwater exposure and high chloride content can cause serious damage. However, with the right preventative measures, like corrosion-resistant materials, sealants, and regular maintenance, you can protect your property from the harmful effects of coastal corrosion.

If you think your concrete may be at risk, contact Alpha Foundations today for a free expert inspection and recommendations to keep your concrete strong and durable.

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Ted Dryce

Content Writer

Ted is an SEO Content Writer who has been with Groundworks since 2021. He’s covered home repair topics ranging from crawl space encapsulation to regional soil conditions. When he’s not working, Ted is performing improv comedy and working on his own creative projects.

_{*Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. Alpha Foundations does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.}