CONCRETE REPAIR & REPLACEMENT

What are the signs that concrete needs to be replaced?

A few indications that concrete needs to be replaced are deep cracks, missing chunks, sunken areas, excessive repairs are required or advanced age. We take all these factors into consideration before recommending a full or partial replacement.

Why does concrete crack?

All concrete shrinks as it dries and loses moisture, and this shrinkage commonly results in cracks. The amount of shrinkage is typically 1/16th of an inch over a 10-foot span (5mm over a 10m length). We put joints into the concrete to encourage the concrete to crack in a controlled straight line as the volume changes from shrinkage.

Why do concrete surfaces flake and spall?

The water/cement ratio should be as low as possible to improve durability of the surface. Too much water in the mix will produce a weaker, less durable concrete that will contribute to early flaking and spalling of the surface. The finishing operations should not begin until the water sheen on the surface is gone and excess bleed water on the surface has had a chance to evaporate. If this excess water is worked into the concrete because the finishing operations are begun too soon, the concrete on the surface will have too high a water content and will be weaker and less durable.

Why can cold weather be a problem for concrete projects?

Concrete needs to set and cure at a suitable internal temperature to achieve its maximum material properties. As the temperatures approaches 0°C, hydration slows and stops. While the hydration process does generate some heat by itself, it is not enough to permit proper curing when the ambient temperature approaches freezing. Special provisions are required for cold weather pours.

Should caulking be applied to concrete?

Absolutely, caulking prevents water from causing cracks and erosion in concrete. We highly recommend concrete caulking as an effective preventative maintenance measure.

Does concrete need to be sealed?

While concrete is strong and durable, it is a fallacy to believe that it needs no protection. Without proper protection, concrete will not be as strong or durable. The most cost-effective way to protect concrete is to use a concrete sealer as soon as the concrete has finished curing.

When is concrete repair a good option?

A few factors need to be considered to determine if repair is a feasible option. Things like downtime, disruption, the unknown (do below-ground complications need to be addressed first) and expense. Proper diagnose of the issues are key in making the decision to repair or replace.

What types of repair options of concrete are available?

There are many methods of repairing concrete after it is determined that repair is a viable option. Routing and crack filling (to prevent further water damage), overlay/resurfacing (for unsightly spalling and flaking), patching (chipping, damaged edges and delamination) and partial replacement (when only certain sections need replacing) are some of the more common methods of concrete repair.

Are concrete repairs and overlay/resurfacing long lasting?

Concrete repair materials have come a long way over the years. There are more available effective, long lasting products on the market than ever before. With proper preparation and application, we have found that in many cases, repairs are lasting longer than the surrounding concrete. Our experience and close working relationship with our manufacturers is the contributing factor for our success with concrete repair and restoration.

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CONCRETE REPAIR & REPLACEMENT