Understand Why Concrete Cracks to Prevent the Need for Concrete Repair

Concrete is a highly durable and long-lasting material, which means that concrete repair is rare for owners of concrete floors. However, this does not mean that concrete can never be damaged.

One of the most common reasons that people have for needing concrete repair is cracks in their concrete. Properly installed concrete undergoes little to no cracking. However, over the long term, there are situations in which even the best-installed concrete will start to crack.

Understanding the reasons behind the cracking will help you look out for any issues and prevent cracking before it occurs. Some of the most common reasons behind concrete cracking include:

1. Tree Roots

Trees that have large root systems will spread their roots out across the ground in search of water. The lack of soil forces the roots to find new sources of nutrition, and they grow through your concrete.

If you’re planning a concrete driveway or concrete patio, choose trees suited to concrete surfaces to plant along with the concrete. If there are already-existing trees, you will need to consult with an arborist to understand how to minimize long-term problems.

2. Lack of Sealant

Concrete is a porous surface. This means that water can easily penetrate it. When the water freezes under the surface, it expands, causing your concrete to expand and crack along with it.

In order to avoid the risk of water damage, your concrete surfaces should be sealed properly. Your concrete professional will install the first coat of sealant when the concrete is being installed. However, this sealant wears off over time and should be renewed every two to three years.

3. Heavy Loads

While concrete is far more durable than other materials, it will still crack when the load applied on it surpasses its design.

If you install concrete driveways or patios in your home, the concrete installed is a formulation that is designed for a lighter load. A driveway meant to hold personal vehicles will not support construction vehicles for long, for example, and a patio designed for personal use will not hold up if it’s used to park your car.

Make sure to talk to your concrete installer and ensure that your concrete is suitable for your usage requirements. This will ensure you don’t have to worry about it cracking due to excess load.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to install concrete in your home, or are looking for a concrete professional to conduct a concrete repair, contact Xpedite Coatings at (713)365-0444 today. We’re happy to answer any questions or concerns that you might have!