If you see cracks oozing rust stains or causing chunks of concrete to flake and drop off, it is a clear sign of concrete cancer (spalling). This occurs when external carbonation or salt air reaches the internal reinforcing steel bars, causing them to rust, swell up to three times their normal size, and burst the surrounding concrete matrix apart.

To stabilize an expanding fracture permanently, the load-bearing capacity of the shifting masonry must be re-established. Leaving foundational cracks open allows moisture to seep directly into your home's framing bones, rotting wood elements and severely undermining the weight distribution of the roofline.