What is the term for the chipping or pitting of concrete or masonry surfaces?

The correct term for the chipping or pitting of concrete or masonry surfaces is spalling. This phenomenon occurs when surface material begins to break away, often due to factors such as freeze-thaw cycles, moisture infiltration, or chemical reactions within the concrete. Spalling results in visible defects that can compromise the integrity of the structure if not addressed.

Crazing refers to a network of fine cracks that form on the surface of concrete and is typically superficial, not involving the loss of material as seen with spalling. Cracking is a more general term that encompasses any fissures in the concrete but does not specifically denote the loss of surface material. Scaling usually refers to the flaking or peeling of concrete surfaces, which may be a result of similar conditions as spalling but does not describe the process of material chipping away in the same way. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective building inspection and maintenance.