Concrete Repair & Replacement

Should You Repair or Replace Your Concrete?

Damaged concrete creates safety hazards and looks terrible. Cracks allow water to penetrate underneath, which makes problems worse over time. Uneven surfaces create tripping hazards that could lead to injuries and liability issues. Spalling concrete where the surface is flaking away exposes the aggregate underneath and weakens the slab. If you have any of these problems, you need to address them sooner rather than later. But do you repair the existing concrete or replace it entirely?

The answer depends on the extent and cause of the damage. Minor surface cracks, small areas of spalling, and isolated damage often can be repaired effectively at a fraction of replacement cost. Extensive cracking throughout the slab, major settling or heaving, and widespread deterioration usually mean replacement makes more sense. We provide honest assessments of your situation. If repair will give you several more years of service, we will tell you that. If the concrete is beyond effective repair and you will just be throwing money at a failing surface, we will recommend replacement.

Common Concrete Problems We Fix

Cracks are the most common concrete problem. Hairline cracks are mostly cosmetic and can be sealed to prevent water intrusion. Wider cracks that show vertical displacement need more substantial repair. We clean out the crack, install backer rod if needed, and fill it with flexible polyurethane or epoxy products designed for concrete repair. For cracks with significant settling on one side, we may need to stabilize the base and use mud jacking or polyurethane foam injection to raise the sunken section before repairing the crack itself.

Spalling occurs when the concrete surface breaks away, usually due to water penetration and freeze-thaw cycles or use of de-icing salts. We remove all loose material, clean the area thoroughly, and apply bonding agent before patching with appropriate repair mortar. Surface overlays can restore appearance across larger damaged areas. For sunken sidewalk slabs or driveway sections, slab jacking raises them back to proper level without full replacement. Each situation requires evaluation to determine the best repair approach.

Concrete Issues We Address

• Cracks of all sizes from hairline to major structural
• Spalling and surface deterioration
• Sunken or settled slabs creating trip hazards
• Heaved sections pushed up by roots or soil movement
• Scaling and surface delamination
• Crumbling edges and corners
• Drainage problems causing water damage
• Outdated or unattractive appearance

When Replacement Is the Right Choice

Sometimes concrete is too far gone to repair effectively. Replacement gives you a fresh start with a properly installed surface that should last for decades. We can replace your entire driveway, patio, walkway, or just sections that are beyond repair. Replacing only damaged sections saves money while eliminating problem areas. We carefully match the new concrete to existing surfaces in terms of finish, color, and elevation.

The replacement process starts with removing the old concrete. We saw cut clean lines to define the removal area, break up the concrete, and haul it away. This gives us access to inspect and correct any base or drainage problems that contributed to the original failure. We prepare the site properly, install adequate base material, and pour new concrete following best practices for your specific application. The result is a surface that looks great and performs as it should. If you are replacing a driveway or patio, consider upgrading to decorative concrete for enhanced curb appeal.

Preventing Future Concrete Problems

Proper installation is the first defense against concrete problems. Quality base preparation, adequate thickness, appropriate reinforcement, and correct curing all contribute to long-lasting concrete. If your existing concrete failed due to poor installation, replacement with proper techniques eliminates those issues. For concrete that was installed correctly, ongoing maintenance extends its life considerably.

Seal your concrete every few years to prevent water penetration. Water is concrete's worst enemy, especially when it freezes and expands. Keep the surface clean and address spills promptly to prevent staining. Avoid using de-icing salts in winter, as they damage concrete. Instead, use sand for traction. Control water drainage so it flows away from concrete surfaces rather than pooling on them. Address small cracks early before they become big problems. Tree roots near concrete can cause heaving, so consider root barriers when planting trees close to hardscapes. These simple steps help your concrete last longer and look better.

Frequently Asked Questions