1.   Collagen normally functions like steel reinforcing rods in a concrete structure.

2.   Cycles of freezing and thawing had damaged the concrete deck, allowing water to seep onto reinforcing steel rods, corroding them.

3.   Now, cracks ripple through the foundation, and reinforcing metal rods are laid bare and rusty from crumbling concrete.

4.   Ours are cast cement with steel reinforcing rods and will be left out all winter.

5.   Then the hen coats the membranes with a protein matrix, like the grid of reinforcing steel rods they lay in cement.