8 Types of Concrete Cracks In Houston
Concrete cracks in Houston are common, and many surfaces will encounter this type of stress at some point in their lifetime. Cracked concrete is more than unsightly. It’s potentially dangerous and could lead to even greater damage the longer you neglect it.
However, before proceeding with concrete crack repair, you must understand the type of cracking you’re dealing with. In this blog, you’ll learn about eight types of concrete cracks you might encounter and what you should do about them.
Do All Types of Cracks in Houston Need Attention?
Not all types of cracks require extensive concrete repair. However, it’s wise to have an expert Houston crack repair company inspect them closely. Some issues are more severe than others, and failing to address specific types of cracking could lead to trouble later.
How Quickly Should I Address Cracked Concrete?
Never ignore cracked concrete. Even the most minor voids could allow water to penetrate your concrete, resulting in worsening damage. Furthermore, cracks could compromise the structural integrity and safety of your concrete.
Prompt concrete repair is key. That applies to all forms of damage. The faster you hire contractors to address the issue, the better.
What Are the Most Common Types of Concrete Cracks in Houston?
The eight types of cracks in concrete that may affect your property include:
•Shrinkage Cracks: These cracks develop as wet concrete dries and cures. The material naturally shrinks during this process, resulting in fine surface cracks. While not a major concern, it’s best to have a Houston concrete repair contractor inspect them.
•Hairline Cracks: As the name implies, these cracks in concrete are thin. However, they can also run deep. They usually occur as concrete settles during the curing process. This damage requires prompt Houston concrete repair to prevent water infiltration.
•Settling Cracks: If the soil below the concrete settles due to poor compaction, the concrete will settle with it. This results in cracking in low and high spots, requiring attention from a Houston concrete repair contractor.
•Overloading Cracks: Despite its strength, concrete still has limits. Overloading cracks in concrete will develop if you apply any weight that exceeds the structure’s load-bearing capacity.
•Heaving Cracks: Heaving cracks develop when soil expands, due to freeze/thaw cycles or root invasion. The soil heaves, pushing the concrete upward to form cracks. Cracked concrete can be a tripping hazard, and the issue may worsen without repair.
•Structural Cracks: These cracks are typically 1/8 of an inch or wider. They’re a byproduct of overloading, poor engineering, or water intrusion. Prompt crack repair is a must.
•Corrosion Cracks: When water infiltrates the concrete, it can corrode structural reinforcements inside. Damage can worsen over time and compromise the overall integrity of the concrete without professional Houston concrete repair services.
•Foundation Cracks: Concrete foundations can crack due to settling, tree roots, or poor site preparation before construction. They typically appear in corners as a stair-step pattern and require attention from Houston concrete repair contractors.
Why Do Houston Repair Companies Need to Understand the Nature of the Damage?
There are many ways to repair cracked concrete in Houston. Contractors must understand the root cause of the cracking and the extent of the damage to determine the most effective approach. After examining the issue closely, concrete repair professionals can develop solutions that restore your concrete and prevent future damage.
What Should I Do When I See Cracked Concrete in Houston?
When you see cracks developing in your concrete, contact a Houston concrete repair company as soon as possible. Even if the issue doesn’t look serious, you need an expert’s opinion to rule out severe damage. Contractors can assess the condition of your concrete, determine the right solution to fix the problem, and execute concrete crack repair to restore your surface or structure.
Let Pavement Services be the Houston concrete repair contractor you turn to! We’re the best company to call for cracked concrete in Houston. We apply decades of experience to solve your unique issues, using high-quality materials and proven techniques to deliver exceptional results. With a commitment to customer service, our team works diligently to exceed expectations and meet your specific needs.
Pavement Services offers a comprehensive range of services, including concrete repair, parking lot construction, concrete flatwork installation, commercial foundation installation, ADA-compliant ramps, asphalt paving, and more. Call Pavement Services today at (713) 661-9295 or use our online form to get in touch, request a consultation, and receive a complimentary project quote.