Symptoms of Corrosion in a Concrete Stem Wall: Flaking Paint
Flaking paint is the most confusing of all the signs of stem wall problems because most people blame other factors, such as sunlight and time, for flaking instead of corrosion.
Symptoms of Corrosion in a Concrete Stem Wall: Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks in a stem wall mean the corrosion problem began in the rebar and then spread to the rest of the stem wall.
Symptoms of Corrosion in a Concrete Stem Wall: Vertical Concrete Cracks
On the other hand, vertical cracks mean the oxidation problem began in the tie-down straps and then spread to the rest of the concrete stem wall.
Stem Wall Repair Process: Rebar Replacement
The main component of a stem wall is the rebar which is why it is very important to replace the rebar with a brand new one to leave the whole stem wall completely free of corrosion.
Stem Wall Repair Process: Preventing is Caring
When all the damaged components got replaced, a blue anti-corrosion material got added to protect all elements from getting oxidized again in the future.
After the Stem Wall Repair
As shown in this picture, the concrete stem wall looks fresh, smooth, and ready to get painted again.