Why Water Infiltration is the #1 Cause of Concrete Failure
At Aurum Concrete in Edmonton, one of the biggest reasons concrete fails is water infiltration. Moisture seeps through small cracks and joints, freezes, expands, and gradually weakens the structure from within. When this happens year after year, concrete begins to shift, crumble, and lose its strength. Knowing how water damage starts and how to prevent it is key to keeping your concrete solid for decades.
How Water Infiltration Starts
Concrete isn’t completely waterproof. Tiny pores and microcracks allow moisture to pass through, especially when surfaces aren’t sealed or maintained. In many cases, the problem begins when small cracks form from normal settling or temperature swings. Poor grading or blocked drainage systems then push even more water toward those weak spots.
Edmonton’s climate makes this worse. Each freeze-thaw cycle traps water inside the concrete, and when it freezes, it expands with enough force to widen cracks. Over time, those small flaws become structural problems.
The Hidden Damage Beneath the Surface
Water doesn’t just cause visible cracks. Once it seeps below the surface, it begins to corrode rebar and break down the bond between cement and aggregate. The soil underneath can soften or wash away, leaving hollow spaces that cause the slab to sink or shift.
These internal problems show up slowly: uneven slabs, crumbling edges, or flaking surfaces. When ignored, they lead to major repairs that could have been avoided with early action or professional concrete repair.
Signs Your Concrete Is Taking On Water
Watch for small issues that signal water infiltration early:
Cracks that keep coming back after repairs
White, powdery buildup on the surface
Uneven or sunken sections of driveway or walkway
Musty smells or damp spots near walls and foundations
These are all early warnings that water is breaking through and weakening the material below.
Why Freeze-Thaw Cycles Cause So Much Damage
During winter, trapped water expands when it freezes. When it thaws, the concrete contracts, leaving new openings for more moisture. This constant stress creates micro-fractures that lead to surface flaking and pitting. After enough cycles, the surface loses strength and appearance.
Edmonton’s long winters mean this process repeats hundreds of times, making early prevention the smartest and most cost-effective approach.
How to Stop Water from Getting In
Good drainage and sealing are the foundation of concrete protection. Proper grading directs runoff away from structures. Drainage systems like weeping tiles or trench drains prevent pooling around foundations.
Sealing joints and using waterproofing membranes create a protective barrier that keeps moisture out while allowing vapor to escape. For driveways and parkades, penetrating sealers or coatings add another layer of defense against road salts and de-icing chemicals.
Keeping Concrete Protected Long-Term
Routine maintenance makes all the difference. Reseal every few years, check that downspouts and drains stay clear, and repair small cracks before they expand. When you notice visible settling or persistent moisture, it’s time to bring in a professional.
The specialists at Aurum Concrete offer inspection, sealing, and repair services that hold up to Alberta’s harsh conditions. For expert help with concrete waterproofing or drainage solutions, contact Aurum Concrete today.
