Common Types of Cracks in Your Concrete and What They Mean
Cracks in your concrete might seem like a minor annoyance, but they often indicate deeper issues that can worsen over time. From surface cracking and spalling to sinking, broken slabs, understanding what these problems mean can help you take action before the damage escalates. The good news is that solutions like PolyLevel® polyurethane foam, SealantPro® surface sealer and NexusPro® joint and crack sealer can restore and protect your concrete, ensuring its longevity.
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Surface cracking is among the most common forms of damage. These thin, hairline fractures typically develop as the concrete cures or due to weather exposure. While surface cracks may seem cosmetic, they can allow water to seep into the concrete, where it can freeze, expand and exacerbate the damage.
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Spalling, another frequent issue, occurs when the surface of the concrete begins to flake or crumble. This is often caused by the freeze-thaw cycle, where water infiltrates the concrete, freezes and expands, breaking apart the surface over time. Left unaddressed, spalling not only detracts from the appearance of your concrete but weakens its structure.
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Deterioration is a broader issue that involves the gradual breakdown of concrete due to poor installation, weather exposure or lack of maintenance. Over time, deterioration leads to uneven surfaces, cracks and reduced structural integrity, making repairs more urgent.
More severe problems include settlement cracks and sunken slabs, which occur when the soil beneath the concrete shifts or erodes. Common causes include poorly compacted soil, water drainage issues or natural soil movement. As the soil settles or washes away, it leaves voids under the concrete, causing it to crack, sink and become hazardous.
While these issues might seem overwhelming, solutions like concrete lifting and leveling with PolyLevel provide a durable and cost-effective fix. PolyLevel’s polyurethane foam is injected beneath the concrete, where it fills voids in the soil, lifts the slabs back into place and stabilizes the foundation. Unlike traditional concrete replacement, PolyLevel is faster, cleaner and provides long-lasting results.
When it comes to surface cracking, spalling and deterioration, prevention is the key. SealantPro creates a protective barrier on the concrete surface, resisting water infiltration and protecting against freeze-thaw cycles. This helps prevent cracking and spalling while improving the appearance and extending the life of your concrete.
Equally important is sealing the joints and cracks in your concrete with NexusPro. Joints and cracks are vulnerable entry points for water, which can seep below the concrete and affect the soil beneath. Once water infiltrates, it can erode the soil, creating voids that lead to settlement and instability (see above). NexusPro provides a flexible, durable seal that keeps water out, protecting both the concrete and the soil foundation beneath it.
Combining PolyLevel for lifting and stabilization, SealantPro for surface protection and NexusPro for joint and crack sealing creates a comprehensive approach to repairing and preserving your concrete. Addressing these issues early not only restores the safety and functionality of your property but also saves you time and money in the long run.
Don’t wait for small cracks or settling slabs to turn into major problems. With solutions like PolyLevel, SealantPro and NexusPro, you can repair, protect and extend the life of your concrete, ensuring it remains safe, durable and beautiful for years to come.
Give us a click or call today to restore and protect your concrete investment!
