The City has been performing its own investigation with respect to the elevated sulfate levels and their potential to cause damage to concrete foundations. The original report was accomplished by taking soil samples and visual field observations that led the City's consultant to conclude that a Physical Salt Attack was occurring. This is primarily a surface condition in comparison to the Classical Sulfate Attack that is internal to the concrete and is much more serious.

To follow up that study, Phase II was performed to better examine the situation. Concrete cores were to be taken from three residential homes with varying sulfate levels. These cores were taken and then sent to a laboratory for Petrographic Examination (microscopic). The results backed up the original study, and were determined to be a Physical Salt Attack. This is good news for our residents. In the report, as in the original, it does offer some advice on how to mitigate the problem. Water is the key; the residents need to try to limit the amount of exposure the concrete has to water. Without water, the reaction can not take place.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Christopher Salas at 520/316-6944.

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