Concrete is pretty solid once it dries, but it’s still vulnerable to ground movement, the makeup of the mix that was used to pour the concrete, and the environment around it. All of that can lead to some cracking, and if the cracks aren’t repaired, they can enlarge, further weaken the structure, and possibly lead to structural collapse. That’s why it’s important to look for a concrete crack repair company near me that can address these issues and provide the long-term solution that your home or commercial building needs.
Some cracks aren’t a big deal, like small hairline cracks that only appear in the surface of concrete. Others, such as a bulge in the concrete that appears to be shifting or pulling away from the rest of the slab, need immediate attention. A professional can come out and evaluate the cracks to determine if they are serious, or if a quick fix will keep them from getting worse over time.
If your cracks aren’t too large, you may be able to perform the repair yourself. Many hardware and home improvement stores have concrete fillers that you can apply to the cracks with a putty knife. You’ll need to scrub the crack clean of any loose concrete, dirt, or paint, and then wipe it down with a damp cloth before applying the filler. The crack filler seals the crack once it dries, so moisture can’t enlarge it, and some products even include ingredients that allow it to give slightly with temperature changes to prevent further damage.
However, if your cracks are wider than 1/8 inch, you’ll need to call a professional for a more permanent solution. In this case, you’ll need to clean the cracks of any debris and scrub them with a wire brush to make sure they are free of loose particles. Then, you’ll need to take measurements of the crack width and depth to determine what size of injection ports should be installed. You’ll also need to decide if the cracks should be filled with epoxy or another type of filler, and how thick you want the final coat to be.
The best concrete crack repair company will use a process called stitching to close the cracks in your concrete slab and prevent further damage. They will also assess your concrete to see if it is in need of other repairs, such as patching or resurfacing. They’ll discuss your options and provide you with an estimate before starting work on the repairs.
When you’re looking for a concrete crack repair company near me, make sure to find a licensed service professional who offers free, no-commitment estimates before beginning the job. The cost of your project will vary depending on the severity of the cracks and whether they’re caused by structural problems. A quality contractor will ensure your repairs are done correctly and last for a long time. They will also offer maintenance and upkeep tips for your concrete to ensure it stays in good condition.