About Repairing Cracks In A Concrete Pavement
Does the concrete on your property have cracks that detract from the attractiveness of your home? For example, are there cracks in the concrete on the patio, driveway, and hardscapes in your yard? If you have tried to make repairs to the cracks but do not like the final results, it might be because the task was not performed correctly. Some cracks can be filled in, but other cracks might require a more extensive type of repair to ensure that the final results are satisfactory. You need to hire a professional concrete repair contractor if you want the repairs to be done right, and doing so could increase the value of your home.
What Causes a Concrete Pavement to Crack?
There are several things that could factor into concrete cracking, including the quality of pavement construction. For example, if the concrete was not properly mixed during the construction process, it is easy for cracks to develop in an untimely manner. Putting too much water in a concrete mixture is a common reason for premature cracking. Another cause of concrete cracking is ground shifting, especially in the case of a home foundation. Freezing weather could also lead to concrete cracking, such as from the shifting occurring during the freezing and thawing process.
How Should Concrete Cracks Be Repaired?
In a minor case of concrete cracking, using an applicator to fill the cracks in is sufficient. For instance, if the cracks are small and the concrete pavement has not shifted or become uneven, then repairs should be simple. However, when concrete is uneven and the cracks are continuously getting bigger, a professional might need to be hired to make repairs. Even in the case of small cracks, it might be wise to hire a professional to inspect the problem and make the proper repairs. A professional will let you know if the concrete needs to be excavated and reconstructed altogether, or if filling the cracks in is sufficient.
How Long Does it Take for Concrete to Cure?
Be prepared not to use your newly repair concrete pavements for a while after the work has been completed. It usually takes a day or two for concrete to cure to the extent of being strong enough to use. Using the pavements before the curing process could damage the surface and cause cracks that require further repairs.
For more information about concrete repair, contact a local concrete company.
