Collin County Concrete surfaces are subject to a variety of stresses and damage. In some cases, this damage becomes severe and requires repair.
The extent and type of repair required depends on the specific damage and its cause. There are two main objectives when repairing concrete: structural bonding or stopping water flow.
Concrete cracks are an unavoidable part of any concrete structure, but repairing them is still possible. The type of crack repair method that is used depends on the severity, cause, if it is dormant or live, and service conditions of the concrete structure. Successful long term repairs must not only address the cracks, but also aim to reduce permeability of the concrete, improve its durability and wear, and prevent further damage from developing.
Before any concrete crack repairs can be made, the area must first be thoroughly cleaned. The cracks should be swept free of dirt and debris and then pressure washed to ensure that the surface is clean. This step is crucial to ensuring that the repair will adhere to the concrete.
When dealing with smaller cracks, it is best to use a ready-mixed concrete patching compound that is designed to resist oil and salt. This material can be applied with a flexible putty knife, broad knife or trowel and will dry to a concrete-gray color that will blend in with the existing concrete.
For larger, deeper cracks, a polyurethane resin is the recommended repair option. This type of repair involves injecting a highly water reactive resin into cracks which quickly begins to foam and expand, sealing the crack and preventing future leaks. This repair method is effective on both active and dormant cracks and is ideal for stopping water leaks.
It is important to note that cracks should always be repaired with the help of a licensed concrete professional. This will ensure that the right type of crack repair is carried out, and that the proper steps are taken to prevent future issues. Cracks that are left untreated can lead to further damage, and may require the full replacement of a section of concrete. This can be very costly, so it is a good idea to seek out a professional concrete contractor for advice on preventing and repairing cracked concrete. This will ensure that your concrete structure is safe and secure, while saving you money in the long run.
Cracked Slabs
Concrete slabs crack for a variety of reasons. Some are a result of soil movement or settling that can exert uneven pressure on the slab, making it weak and prone to cracking. Others are a result of improper construction practices. For instance, if a slab is poured in a hot, dry climate without proper coverage, it will likely crack.
Some slab cracks are cosmetic, while others indicate a problem with the structure of the slab that needs to be addressed quickly. For example, hairline slab cracks that aren’t extending to the perimeter of the concrete element don’t pose a risk to the structure and can be repaired with little to no disruption to the surface. However, plastic settlement cracks that enlarge and extend to the reinforcement steel or other types of restraining elements can expose those components to water ingress and corrosive substances.
Other cracks in concrete slabs can be a sign of a structural problem with the foundation or the surrounding soil. They can also be caused by improper site preparation or poor drainage that makes the soil soggy and unable to support the weight of the concrete slab. Finally, dead trees or roots that decompose can create voids under the slab, causing it to sink into those voids.
A concrete repair expert should be consulted to identify the cause of these problems and determine the most effective solution. Some options include removing and replacing the settled section of the slab, installing a skim coat or using the process of mud jacking to pump mortar beneath the sunken slab to lift it. However, these fixes can be expensive and disruptive to the surrounding area. They also do nothing to address the underlying problem that is creating the slab shift.
Cracked Foundations
A cracked foundation wall indicates more serious structural problems than cracks in a slab. The cause can vary from earthquake damage to improper construction or a change in soil conditions beneath the foundation. Foundation wall cracks can also indicate the presence of plumbing leaks. While you can use DIY solutions such as concrete crack sealants to fix minor cracks, you should seek professional repair if a crack is expanding, or if it’s associated with other signs of foundation problems such as doors and windows that won’t open or close properly.
While foundation settlement and cracks are normal, they need to be addressed promptly to avoid more serious damage. If a crack is widening, it indicates that soil is shifting underneath the foundation, and this can lead to other structural issues such as leaning walls or sinking floors. Cracks in concrete that are expanding can also allow moisture and water vapor to enter your home, leading to increased humidity and mold growth.
If you have recently moved into a new home and notice a small crack in the foundation, check with your builder; it may be covered under warranty. If you’re not covered, you can prevent further deterioration of your foundation by installing a sump pump and a drainage system to remove excess water from the surrounding soil. You can also irrigate the soil around the foundation to keep it moist. However, dumping water directly into the crack can cause it to expand. Instead, irrigate a foot or two away from the foundation, using an automatic timer to release water several times a day.
Cracks that are causing stress on the foundation can be repaired by a contractor with carbon fiber wraps or epoxy injection. These products are especially effective for structural cracks that appear in foundation walls, but can also be used to reinforce concrete that’s showing signs of bowing or leaning. Alternatively, you can install wall plate anchors, which transfer the weight of your structure to reinforced soil underneath, reducing the pressure on your foundation walls. The best solution for your specific situation will depend on the severity of the crack and the underlying cause, and may require more advanced techniques such as wall reinforcement or underpinning.
Cracked Basements
Basement wall cracks are a common issue for homeowners, particularly in new construction. These cracks typically appear within a year of the home’s construction and are often narrow enough that a quarter can fit inside. Generally, these cracks aren’t structural and pose no significant threat to the foundation or your home. They can be repaired with a caulk suitable for concrete.
If the cracks are accompanied by heaving, they indicate a more serious problem that requires professional investigation and repair. Heaving indicates that the soil beneath your basement floor has expanded, creating a space that can lift and crack the slab floor. Basement waterproofing and a drainage system are effective solutions for this type of issue.
The area in the basement where the walls and floor meet is called the cove joint. This gap allows water to seep through the basement walls from groundwater. A basement drainage system including interior drain tile and a sump pump helps relieve hydrostatic pressure that can cause this type of leak.
Uneven basement floors create a tripping hazard and can lead to cracked walls. If your floor is uneven, it’s best to level it using a process like polylevel. During this procedure, penny-sized holes are drilled into the floor and a high-density polyurethane formula is injected into the void, lifting and stabilizing the sinking slab.
Many DIY solutions are available for repairing minor cracks, but these are considered temporary and may not provide the stability or waterproofing that professionals offer. Many foundation contractors also offer a range of repair methods that are more cost-effective than a complete basement rebuild and can help you avoid extensive or costly damage. The best option for you depends on your budget, basement needs and how much time you’d like to spend on a DIY project. Many of these professional methods include warranties and structural solutions, ensuring your basement is safe and secure for years to come. Contact a local foundation contractor to determine the best solution for you.