How to Repair Cracks in Concrete
Whether it’s a driveway, patio, basement floor, or foundation, cracked concrete can be both an eyesore and a potential safety hazard. Understanding how to repair cracks in concrete is crucial.
In this blog, we will explore different ways to fix concrete cracks, and why polyurethane injection, specifically Groundworks’ PolyRenewal™, is the most effective solution.
What Causes Concrete Cracks?
Before diving into repair methods, it’s essential to understand the common causes of concrete cracks:
- Shrinkage: As concrete dries, it shrinks, which can lead to cracks if not properly cured.
- Thermal Expansion and Contraction: Changes in temperature cause concrete to expand and contract, resulting in cracks over time.
- Overloading: Excessive weight or pressure on concrete can lead to cracks.
- Tree Roots: Roots that grow too close to concrete have a chance to push up against the structure and cause it to crack.
- Soil Movement: Soil that is too wet, too expansive, or poorly compacted will move and shift. Any concrete on top of it will crack as a result.
- Poor Installation: Improper mixing, pouring, or curing of concrete can lead to cracks.
Common Concrete Repair Methods
Concrete leveling (sometimes called concrete lifting) tends to be the best way to deal with concrete cracks. This involves using a mixture (which varies, depending on the method) to lift concrete back to a safe position and close cracks along the way.
Historically, concrete repair was done with two methods: mudjacking or concrete replacement. While they’re still used today, they aren’t the most effective options. Let’s look deeper into these methods to see why.
1. Mudjacking
Mudjacking, also known as slabjacking, is a method where a slurry mixture of water, soil, and cement is pumped under the concrete slab to raise it back to its original level. While this method may temporarily fix the issue, it has several drawbacks:
- Short-term Solution: The slurry mixture can erode over time, leading to the same problem reoccurring.
- Heavy Material: The mixture is heavy and can cause further settling.
- Invasive Process: It involves drilling large holes into the concrete, which can be unsightly and weaken the structure.
2. Concrete Replacement
Concrete replacement involves removing the damaged concrete and pouring new concrete in its place. While this may seem like a permanent solution, it also has significant downsides:
- Costly and Time-Consuming: Removing and replacing concrete is labor-intensive and expensive.
- Disruption: The process can be highly disruptive, as it requires extensive work and time to complete.
- Matching Issues: New concrete may not match the existing concrete in color and texture, leading to an uneven appearance.
As you can see, these options aren’t necessarily going to solve the problem. Even though they might provide a temporary fix, the concrete will eventually crack again in the future. For a more effective fix, a modern approach (called polyurethane injection) is the best option.
Why Polyurethane Injection is the Most Effective Solution
Polyurethane injection (at Groundworks, we use PolyRenewal™), is the best option when it comes to repairing concrete cracks.
Take a look at the video to get a glimpse into how it works. Then, read on to see why it’s the best concrete repair tool out there:
Durability
Polyurethane is a highly durable material that can withstand various environmental conditions. Once injected, it forms a strong, stable base that supports the concrete slab and prevents future settling.
Minimal Disruption
PolyRenewal involves drilling small, inconspicuous holes into the concrete, through which the polyurethane foam is injected. This process is quick and minimally invasive, causing little to no disruption to your daily life.
Quick Curing Time
Unlike mudjacking and concrete replacement, which can take days to cure, polyurethane injection cures in a matter of minutes. This means your concrete is ready for use almost immediately after the repair.
Lightweight
The polyurethane foam used in PolyRenewal is lightweight, which means it doesn’t add any significant weight to the underlying soil, reducing the risk of further settling.
Waterproof
Polyurethane is waterproof, which means it won’t erode or wash away over time. This makes it an ideal solution for areas prone to water exposure, such as driveways and basement floors.
Environmentally Friendly
PolyRenewal uses environmentally friendly materials that are safe for both residential and commercial properties.
Why You Should Avoid DIY Concrete Repair
While the idea of repairing concrete cracks yourself may seem appealing, DIY repairs (such as installing self-leveling concrete) often lead to more problems than solutions. Here are some reasons to avoid DIY concrete repair:
1. Lack of Proper Tools and Materials
Homeowners typically lack the specialized tools and high-quality materials needed for effective concrete repair. Using substandard materials can result in a temporary fix that doesn’t address the underlying issues.
2. Insufficient Knowledge and Expertise
Concrete repair requires a thorough understanding of the causes of cracks and the appropriate repair methods. Without this knowledge, DIY repairs can be ineffective or even exacerbate the problem.
3. Potential Safety Hazards
Improper handling of repair materials and tools can pose safety risks. Professionals are trained to handle these safely, ensuring the repair process does not endanger anyone.
4. Time and Effort
Concrete repair is labor-intensive and time-consuming. DIY attempts often take longer and may not yield the desired results, leading to frustration and wasted effort.
Working with a Professional Repair Team is Better
If you choose to repair concrete cracks, work with a professional. Here’s why:
1. Expertise and Experience
Professional repair teams, like those at Groundworks, have extensive experience and expertise in dealing with various types of concrete cracks. They can quickly identify the root cause of the problem and implement the most effective solution.
2. High-Quality Materials and Tools
Professionals use industry-grade materials and tools that are not typically available to homeowners. This ensures that the repairs are durable and long-lasting.
3. Comprehensive Solutions
A professional repair team will not only fix the visible cracks but also address any underlying issues that may be causing them. This holistic approach prevents future problems and extends the life of your concrete.
4. Warranty and Peace of Mind
Reputable repair companies offer warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind that if any issues arise in the future, they will be addressed promptly and effectively.
5. Time Efficiency
Professional teams can complete repairs quickly and efficiently, minimizing disruption to your daily routine and ensuring that your concrete is back in use as soon as possible.
Repair Cracks in Concrete With Groundworks
When it comes to repairing cracks in concrete, choosing the right method is crucial for long-term success. While mudjacking and concrete replacement are common techniques, they come with significant drawbacks.
Polyurethane injection provides a durable, minimally invasive, and quick-curing solution that ensures your concrete remains stable and crack-free for years to come. If you’re facing concrete crack issues, contact Groundworks today for a free inspection and reliable repair.
Concrete Crack Repair FAQs
It depends on the method selected. Polyurethane foam injection addresses the soil instability or voids under the slab by stabilizing the soil beneath it.
Professional concrete leveling is designed to be minimally invasive, with little to no damage to surrounding landscaping.
Concrete lifting works for a wide range of concrete structures, from small residential projects to large commercial or industrial applications. However, if the concrete is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced entirely.
Ted Dryce
Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. Groundworks does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.