Honeycombing refers to voids in concrete caused by the mortar not filling the spaces between the coarse aggregate particles. It usually becomes apparent when the formwork is stripped, revealing a rough and ‘stony’ concrete surface with air voids between the coarse aggregate. Sometimes, however, a surface skin of mortar masks the extent of the defect. Honeycombing may extend some depth into the member.
Honeycombing is always an aesthetic problem, and depending on the depth and extent may reduce both the durability performance and the structural strength of the member.