Understanding Concrete Cracks: When to Worry and When to Repair
Bring Your Outdoor Oasis to Life!
A Homeowner's Guide to Identifying and Dealing with Cracks in Your Concrete
A Homeowner's Guide to Concrete Cracks
Seeing a crack in your concrete driveway, patio, or foundation can be concerning. The good news is that not all cracks are a sign of a serious problem. Concrete is a rigid material, and some cracking is a natural occurrence. The key is to understand the difference between a harmless surface crack and one that signals a deeper issue that requires professional attention.
Common and Harmless: Shrinkage Cracks
If you see very fine, hairline cracks, especially on new concrete, they are likely shrinkage cracks. These happen as the water in the concrete mix evaporates during the curing process. They are very shallow and do not affect the structural integrity of the slab. While they may be visible, they are not a cause for alarm.
Cracks from Settling or Heaving
Cracks that are wider than a credit card, or where one side of the crack is higher than the other, suggest movement of the slab. This can be caused by the soil underneath settling over time or from tree roots pushing the slab up. These cracks should be monitored and repaired to prevent them from getting worse and becoming a trip hazard.
Brevard, Indian River & St. Lucie's trusted screen enclosure, concrete, paver and outdoor kitchen experts! Call now for fast, affordable new screen enclosure, concrete, paver and outdoor kitchen installation.
Call us at ☎ 772-758-5372
Structural Cracks: When to Take Action
A structural crack is a serious issue that threatens the stability of the concrete. Signs of a structural crack include a crack that is wide and continues to grow, cracks that run through the full depth of the slab, or large, branching cracks. On a foundation wall, stair-step cracks in the blocks are a major red flag. These require immediate inspection from a professional concrete contractor.
The Professional Concrete Repair Process
For non-structural cracks that need attention, the team at Right Way can provide an effective crack repair. The process involves cleaning out the crack and then filling it with a durable, flexible sealant. This stabilizes the crack, prevents water from getting in and causing further damage, and helps restore a safer, more uniform surface to your driveway or patio.
When in Doubt, Get an Expert Opinion
It can be hard for a homeowner to know for sure what type of crack they are dealing with. If you have a crack that is concerning you, the best course of action is to have it inspected by a professional. Contact Right Way today for a free consultation and an honest assessment of your concrete in Vero Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you repair a crack so that it is completely invisible?
While a professional repair can blend well, it is nearly impossible to make a crack completely invisible. The repair material will always have a slightly different color and texture than the original concrete. The main goals of repair are to stabilize the crack and prevent water intrusion.
Is it okay to just fill a crack with a caulk from a hardware store?
Standard caulks are not designed for concrete and will not hold up to foot traffic or weather. A professional repair uses specialized polyurethane or epoxy-based sealants that are designed to bond with concrete and remain flexible, providing a much more durable, long-term solution.
What is the main cause of concrete cracking?
The most common causes are the natural shrinkage during curing, movement in the soil base underneath the slab, and stress from heavy loads or temperature changes. Professional installation with a proper base and control joints helps to manage and minimize cracking.
Brevard, Indian River & St. Lucie's trusted screen enclosure, concrete, paver and outdoor kitchen experts! Call now for fast, affordable new screen enclosure, concrete, paver and outdoor kitchen installation.
Call us at ☎ 772-758-5372
