Scabbling in construction
Traditionally, the term ‘scabbling’ or ‘scappling’ referred to the use of axes or hammers to shape a stone. It now generally refers to the process of removing a thin layer from the surface of concrete or sometimes masonry.
This can be necessary in order to:
- Roughen surfaces to give better grip.
- Create decorative effects.
- Prepare surfaces for repairs, grouting, painting, sealing or coating.
- Remove adhesives, coatings, markings, laitence or surface contamination.
The term can also be used to refer to other process in which the surface of a material is removed, such as the removal of steel scale deposits and the removal of road markings.
Typically, scabbling is carried out with pneumatic devices that pound the surface with pointed rods. However, rotary devices that ‘flail’ the surface may also be used, and more recently, water Jet techniques using high-pressure water.
Scabbling concrete or other construction materials can produce high levels of silica-containing dust. Silica dust (known as Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS)) can be inhaled and can lead to silicosis, a lung disease that causes permanent disablement and early death. As a consequence, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) categorise scabbling as high risk. Effective control is necessary, involving assessment, prevention and controls such as on-tool extraction and Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE).
For more information, see HSE Construction dust: Scabbling or grinding.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help the homebuilding sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.