Concrete Crack Repair in D.C. & Surrounding Areas
Learn how to approach repairing cracks in concrete surfaces like patios, driveways, pool decks, and more.
Even concrete, a strong and durable material, can eventually crack. Often, people think they need to replace their entire concrete slab if it has cracks, but fortunately, that’s not the case. In most cases, repairing or resurfacing the concrete is a more affordable and efficient option than replacing.
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WHY DOES CONCRETE CRACK?
One of the most obvious reasons for concrete cracking is incorrect installation. This can happen when the concrete wasn’t mixed properly or inadequate control joints. While a well executed installation can prevent lots of problems, even concrete that’s been installed properly can crack over time. Concrete can withstand heavy loads, but it doesn’t have a lot of resistance to bending or stretching.
TYPES OF CONCRETE CRACKS
Not all cracks can be repaired in the same way. The approach you take depends on what caused the cracking and how severe it is. Here are common types of cracks and how they should be addressed.
Hairline cracks
Caused by natural shrinkage as concrete cures, these types of cracks don’t indicate structural issues. They do need to be repaired to prevent moisture from seeping in.
Solution: Fill with crack filler or adhesive.
Shrinkage cracks
These cracks are wider than hairline cracks and appear in random patterns.. They tend to form when the concrete dries too quickly or when too much water is used in the mix.
Solution: Fill with crack filler or adhesive to prevent them from getting bigger. In some cases when shrinkage cracks are significant, resurfacing may be required.
Settlement cracks
These types of cracks sometimes show up when the ground beneath the concrete isn’t compacted enough. It can also happen if a heavy load is applied to the surface before the concrete fully cures. When you see settlement cracks, you may also see unevenness in the slab.
Solution: Grinding and sealing can sometimes resolve these, though more serious cases need to be resurfaced or replaced.
Structural cracks
These are the most serious types of cracks because they are wider and deeper than other types. Structural cracks are often caused by poor reinforcement in the slab, or shifting foundations.
Solution: In some cases, replacing the slab may be the best long-term solution.
UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSE OF CONCRETE CRACKS
To prevent future problems, it’s a good idea to figure out what’s causing your concrete to crack. Whether the cause is environmental factors (e.g., moisture or freeze-thaw cycles) or poor installation, different repair methods are required. If you’re dealing with cracks that are a result of poor reinforcement, you’ll probably need more than just a surface repair. Consult a professional contractor so they can assess the damage and then suggest the most appropriate solution.
OPTIONS FOR REPAIRING CRACKED CONCRETE
Here are a few techniques our contractors use to repair cracked concrete:
- Custom Scoreline Effect: This method, which was developed by SUNDEK, uses existing cracks in the design of the surface, then uses them as functional expansion joints.
- Repair the crack: If you opt for this solution, we can repair each crack individually. To blend everything together, we can resurface the entire slab so it has a uniform look.
- Remove and replace: When cracking is really severe, repair might not be the best option. You can have a professional SUNDEK installer come out to assess your surface and let you know the best approach.
SUNDEK of Washington used Custom Scoreline Effect on this pool deck at a multi-family property. RESURFACING & SUSTAINABILITY
When you’re dealing with a concrete surface that’s still in good condition structurally, resurfacing is a much more environmentally friendly option. Instead of tearing out the existing slab and disposing of the debris, a contractor can prep the existing surface and add a new layer of material. Taking this approach conserves resources, reduces labor, and minimizes waste.
COST OF CONCRETE CRACK REPAIR
You can use inexpensive crack fillers to repair small hairline cracks. For more extensive damage, you should consult a professional. To get an accurate estimate of the cost of concrete repair, a professional contractor will need to come assess your surface to determine the size and extent of the damage.
CAN I REPAIR CONCRETE CRACKS MYSELF?
Although minor cracks can be fixed as a DIY project, proper materials and techniques are crucial for lasting repair. If it’s incorrectly done, the crack can return or even get worse. Hiring an experienced contractor ensures a proper and durable repair.
Contractors who repair cracked concrete near me
SUNDEK of Washington resurfaces concrete in the major metros in the area, including Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, and Reston, Virginia; Bethesda, Frederick, Gaithersburg, and Hagerstown, Maryland; Washington D.C.; and beyond. Contact us today to get started with your project!
Call us at 866-631-8664
Or email us: [email protected]