What is the most common type of concrete failure?

Cracking due to shrinkage is considered the most common type of concrete failure because it is a natural phenomenon that occurs during the curing process. As concrete hardens, it undergoes hydration and thermal changes, which can lead to a reduction in volume. This shrinkage can create tensile stresses within the concrete, especially if it is restrained by reinforcements or adjacent structures. If these stresses exceed the material’s tensile strength, cracks will develop.

Shrinkage cracking commonly manifests in various forms, such as hairline cracks or larger fissures, and it can significantly affect the durability and aesthetic of the concrete surface. This type of cracking is often exacerbated by factors like rapid drying, high temperatures, and low humidity, which create conditions that increase the rate of moisture loss. Consequently, it’s critical to implement design considerations, such as proper mix design, adequate curing practices, and the use of control joints to mitigate this issue.

The other types of failures, like color fading, dusting, and flaking, while problematic, typically arise from different causes and conditions and are not as prevalent across various concrete applications.