Tubelite Inc. Submittal Letter –

Should architectural aluminum products contact fresh/cured concrete?

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  • MM slash DD slash YYYY
  • RE: Should architectural aluminum products contact fresh/cured concrete?

    To all concerned,

    No. Aluminum should not be in contact with fresh concrete. Plastic shims, caulk, or bituminous paint are all appropriate means of isolation.

    Fresh concrete is considered to be concrete that is not fully cured. Curing typically can take up to 28 days. The risk of aluminum corrosion is higher if an accelerant (a chloride) is used in the concrete. Once cured, the concrete is pH neutral and would pose a minimal risk. The reactive chemicals are then captive in the cement, and would have minimal potential for corrosion. Keeping the area free of moisture, as it should be after installation, helps prevent any potential corrosion. Contact of aluminum with fresh concrete is known to cause permanent staining of finishes. The pH can be quite high, and contact with fresh concrete can be a problem. There are no known, documented cases where aluminum in contact with cured concrete has resulted in corrosion.

    Contact of aluminum with fresh concrete is known to cause permanent staining of finishes. The pH can be quite high, and contact with fresh concrete can be a problem. There are no known, documented cases where aluminum in contact with cured concrete has resulted in corrosion.

    Best regards,

    Gerard Schoeb
    Structural and Application Engineering Supervisor
    (616) 808-2531 Direct
    gschoeb@tubeliteusa.com


    Disclaimer: The information contained in this document is intended only to address generic conditions or situations and does not apply to every installation or environment. Site-specific conditions may affect the content of this document and should be addressed on a case-by-case basis. If you have questions regarding a particular product use, application, or installation, please contact Tubelite for more specific information. Nothing in this document is intended or shall be construed as a waiver or modification of Tubelite’s Terms and Conditions of Sale or the terms of any Tubelite warranty.

Sample Submission Letter