Concrete Crack Repair for Patios, Pool Decks, Driveways & More
Although concrete is strong, durable, and long lasting, there are times when cracks occur. In most instances, fixing cracked concrete is a viable solution compared to ripping the concrete out and starting over again. In addition to concrete resurfacing, SUNDEK contractors are experts in concrete repair.
Why does concrete crack?
Concrete can crack for a variety of reasons. If it isn’t installed properly, it will eventually crack. Improper installation includes everything from having the wrong amount of water in the mix, poor conditions that caused the concrete to dry too quickly, missing control joints and more.
However, even properly installed concrete can crack. Concrete has great hardness (compressive strength), but it does not have good elasticity (tensile strength) which is the ability to stretch and bend very far.
Types of Cracks
Not all cracks are treated the same. Here’s a general overview of different types of cracking you might see in a slab and what you can do about them.
Hairline cracks are typically a result of natural shrinkage that occurs when concrete cures and dries. Although they are superficial and don’t indicate structural issues, they should be taken care of. In addition to being an eyesore, hairline cracks expose concrete surface to further deterioration because they allow moisture into the surface.
Fixing hairline cracks: These can be resolved using filler or an adhesive to prevent moisture from penetrating the surface.
Shrinkage cracks are a result of either concrete drying too quickly or too much water in the concrete mix. They typically develop within just a few days of pouring concrete. These are sometimes wider than hairline cracks and tend to create a random pattern on the surface.
Fixing shrinkage cracks: Like hairline cracks, these can sometimes be addressed using filler or an adhesive. This will prevent them from getting worse or allowing moisture into the surface. If shrinkage cracks are prevalent, resurfacing may be the best option.
Settlement cracks are more serious than hairline or shrinkage cracks because they tend to be wider and can sometimes have a jagged pattern. It is common for settlement cracks to be accompanied by a depression in the concrete. These types of cracks are caused by subgrade material that might not be compacted properly or too much weight being placed on the concrete before it cured.
Fixing settlement cracks: When settlement cracks are minor and the surface isn’t depressed, grinding and then filling the cracks with sealant can sometimes resolve the issue. However, if the structural damage is significant, resurfacing or completely replacing the concrete slab might be necessary.
Structural cracks are the most serious because they compromise the integrity of the concrete surface. These are typically wider than a few inches and run deeper than hairline or shrinkage cracks. There are many reasons structural cracks occur, including foundation movement, poorly executed reinforcement, or other errors during construction.
Fixing structural cracks is a more intensive process, often requiring reinforcements. Depending on the severity of the structural cracks, it might not be worthwhile to salvage the surface. Before attempting to resolve structural cracking, it’s worth contacting a professional to have them assess the damage.
Diagnosing the cause of the cracks in your concrete
It’s important to figure out why your concrete is cracking so that you can prevent it from happening again. Understanding the cause will also inform the method used for repair.
For example, damage due to traffic or wear and tear will have different repair requirements than damage due to exposure to moisture or freeze/thaw cycles in the winter. If the damage is due to corrosion in the reinforcing steel rebar structure of the concrete, it’s going to need more than just resurfacing and may need to be replaced entirely. A qualified concrete contractor will be able to accurately diagnose the source of the problem and give you options for repairing or replacing it.
Contact a local SUNDEK contractor to get a free quote for repair on your cracked concrete
What are the options for fixing cracked concrete?
Have SUNDEK do a Custom Scoreline Effect. This technique, invented and perfected by SUNDEK contractors more than 40 years ago, involves working small cracks into the design of the concrete surface. Since the cracks are doing their job in controlling the natural expansion and contraction of the concrete as it heats and cools, we let them do their thing, but we incorporate them into the design. (We sometimes call this technique “Mother Nature’s Expansion Joints”).
With the Custom Scoreline Effect, you get a two-year warranty—if another crack appears during that time, SUNDEK will create a new scoreline with the new crack.
See a pool deck resurfaced using the Custom Scoreline Effect.
Repair then resurface. With this option, we can repair cracks in your surface then apply a coating to the top of the entire surface, giving you a brand new look.
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Repair just the crack. If the damage from the crack is not very deep or widespread, it’s sometimes possible to just patch up the crack. If this is the case, a contractor can grind open the hairline cracks then brush on a layer of bonding adhesive. Then they will apply the repair material, smooth it out, and let it dry.
Remove and replace the cracked concrete areas. This option can get pricey, but depending on the width of the crack, it may be necessary. A SUNDEK installer can advise you on whether you need to tear and out replace your surface.
Saw cut the concrete at the cracks and epoxy weld the structural cracks. This is also known as the cut-and-paste option. It’s pricey and not foolproof. It can be difficult to find someone who does this type of work and usually it has a very limited warranty.
Resurfacing: An Environmentally Friendly Option
If the concrete surface you’re working with is structurally viable, resurfacing is a great way to get a brand-new look without having to rip anything out. With resurfacing, you can apply a coating right on top of your existing surface.
In addition to saving yourself the headache, mess, and hassle of a demo job, you also save valuable resources and prevent materials unnecessarily going to waste.
Cost of Fixing Cracked Concrete
It’s difficult to estimate a cost for fixing cracked concrete without seeing it because it depends on the severity of the crack.
If you have a small hairline crack that you are confident you can fix yourself, it will cost you the price of concrete crack filler (anywhere from $10 and up), a caulking gun (prices vary), adhesive (anywhere from $10 and up). You’ll also need a tool for applying the filler such as a trowel or putty knife. However, keep in mind that this solution only applies for very insignificant hairline cracks.
For more extensive cracks, you will need to have a professional come look and assess the severity and provide a quote.
Can I fix cracked concrete myself?
Crack repair is a delicate process. Aside from needing all the proper materials, you need to know how to mix the product properly to prevent repeat damage. You also need the right drying conditions. If the crack isn’t repaired correctly, the repair work is not going to last.
A professional, experienced contractor can repair the cracks in your concrete, and they can assess the damage and recommend the best solution for the job to ensure the crack doesn’t reappear.
SUNDEK contractors have more than 50 years of experience, so we know how to address the nuances that occur and know the common pitfalls to avoid.
Contact a local SUNDEK contractor to get a free consultation on your cracked concrete.
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