What towns in MA have crumbling foundations?
The commission said cities and towns within a 20-mile radius are the most likely to have homes with this mineral, including western Massachusetts communities such as Brimfield, Palmer, Hampden, Wilbraham, Springfield, Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Ludlow, Ware, Belchertown, and Agawam.
How long does it take for a foundation to crumble?
The slow deterioration can take 10 to 30 years to appear. As water and air enter small holes and cracks in the foundation, it reacts with the pyrrhotite creating spider-web-like cracks. A white powder or rust-colored residue can appear. Some New England homeowners have noticed their foundation walls flaking.
What do you do with crumbling concrete?
How to Fix Crumbling Concrete
- Rub the bristles of a stiff scrub brush over the edges of the crumbling area to remove loose concrete and dirt.
- Apply a thin coat of concrete bonding agent over each of the crumbling areas, using a medium to large paintbrush.
Is pyrrhotite in all concrete?
Publicly Released: Jul 29, 2020. Pyrrhotite is a mineral that expands when exposed to water and oxygen. If pyrrhotite is present in concrete—as it is in the foundations of at least 1,600 Connecticut and Massachusetts homes—the concrete can crack and crumble.
Why is pyrite bad for building?
If pyrite or pyrrhotite are present in the rocks underneath buildings, the swelling can push on the foundation, walls, and basement floor of the building, causing cracks and other structural damage. In some cases, groundwater can then transport sulfates into the cracked foundation, causing further damage.
Can you pour concrete over broken concrete?
You can put new concrete over old concrete. However, unresolved issues with your old concrete, such as cracks or frost heaves, will carry over to your new concrete if not taken care of. In addition, you must pour it at least 2 inches thick.
How do you stabilize crumbling concrete?
Mix the concrete powder in either a cement mixer or a wheelbarrow, adding water until a consistency similar to peanut butter is achieved. 5. Spread a layer of bonding agent next and then trowel the concrete over the selected surface ensuring it is evenly applied.