Concrete is one the most durable, customizable and cost-effective building materials for commercial and residential applications. However, it is not indestructible. It is not impervious to weather damage, soil shifting, heavy traffic or time.
You’ll need to decide whether concrete replacement or repairs are the best solution for you if you have cracked driveways or sidewalks, a sagging wall or decorative patios that could use a facelift.
Cause of Damage & Damage Evaluation
You must understand the severity of any concrete damage before you can fix it. Answering the following questions will help you determine the extent of the damage.
- Is the concrete of your walkway or driveway buckled to the point that it is a safety hazard for you?
- Do you have tiny cracks in your concrete patio?
- The finish on a concrete patio or pool deck with a pattern has completely deteriorated.
- There are visible cracks that are larger than 1/4 inch or is grass and weeds growing through the concrete joints?
- Does the surface of your patio look flaky, pockmarked or scaled to you?
- Have the steps also been pulled away from a wall vertical or the foundation of your home if they have become uneven?
- Have you noticed cracks in your concrete driveway or foundation due to shifting soils
You should have a professional examine your structure as quickly as possible if you answered yes or no to any of these questions. Concrete cracks and shifting can both be corrected with repairs or replacement of the concrete slab.
The severity of damage to the concrete in your driveway, patio or walkway will determine whether you need a replacement or repair.
Replacing Concrete
Most often, the most expensive option is a total replacement. This involves not only removing damaged sections but also preparing the site and obtaining the necessary materials and labor to pour the new concrete and finish it. For large slabs for garages and driveway approaches, which must support the weight of heavy cars, experience and expertise is required.
The strength and durability of concrete walls and stairs is also important. The slope of the pool deck or patio is important to ensure that snow and rain will drain away from your home.
If the slab is structurally damaged, you should replace the concrete only when: a) The concrete structure has reached its life expectancy. If you get quotes from contractors and the cost of repair is higher than the cost of replacement, it’s better to opt for a complete replacement. Consider how much material is needed for repairs. If more than 2 inches are required, it’s more cost effective to replace the entire unit.
Repairing concrete
Repairing a concrete structure is the most cost effective option for most property owners.
Concrete repairs can be divided into three main categories: resealing (refinishing), resurfacing and refinishing.
- Resealing : You can repair minor wear and tear to concrete surfaces by resealing areas that are heavily used. You should, as a rule of thumb, reseal concrete walkways and patios every three to five years.
- Concrete Refinishing: This involves sanding/grinding of the top layer. A concrete densifier will then be applied to the surface of the slab, filling in any defects and holes. The top layer of the concrete is reground using a polisher.
- Resurfacing To give an older slab a fresher and newer look, you can resurface it. This will usually involve “roughing” up the surface, by grinding a little of the top coat and “frosting” it with a brand new top layer.
All concrete repairs, even if they are minor, should be done by professionals. A single missed step in refinishing or resurfacing, for example, can increase the risk of future damage and repairs.
Find your solution with Semper drilling
If your concrete slab is structurally damaged, replacing it may be the most cost-effective solution for you. Refinishing or resurfacing the concrete slab could be a cost-effective option if there is no significant structural damage.
“It’s best that you consult an experienced contractor, such as Semper drilling, a Concrete Contractor in Los Angeles, to evaluate structural damage.”
We’re a family owned and operated concrete repair company that was founded over 20 years ago. We specialize in resurfacing and refinishing concrete, as well as new installations and concrete replacements. Request a free inspection today. We are happy to assist you in finding the most cost-effective option.
