Concrete is one of the most widely used materials in modern construction, and it’s not hard to see why. When installed correctly and given plenty of good maintenance, it can last up to 100 years! However, damage can occur for many reasons. When it does, you have two choices: Houston concrete repair and full replacement. But how do you know which option is right for your needs?
What Types of Damage Can Affect Concrete?
Concrete repair issues can happen for various reasons. Despite its strength, concrete isn’t indestructible. Like any other material, it has limits and is susceptible to several damaging factors. Overuse and excessive wear can lead to problems like stress cracks and spalling.
However, the biggest sources of damage that require concrete repair include poor soil conditions, water penetration and inclement weather. Concrete repair companies often provide services after cracks develop due to temperature-related expansion and shrinking. Many will also address spider cracks due to water penetration and evaporation.
Sometimes, damage is a byproduct of improperly prepared sub-base and soil. When soil consolidates and settles, voids can form underneath concrete flatwork that eventually cause cracks, settling and potholes.
When Is Houston Concrete Repair Necessary?
It’s important to consider how concrete repairs can benefit your surfaces. While minor issues usually don’t require immediate attention, property owners and managers should get concrete repair in Houston whenever damage directly threatens safety. For example, cracks, settling and sinking can become a safety hazard and liability risk.
Houston concrete repairs can restore flatwork surfaces to their former glory, decreasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Of course, you can also get concrete repairs whenever damage hurts curb appeal. Cracks can be unsightly, and concrete repair companies can easily address them to create a more uniform and attractive look.
Finally, it’s wise to invest in concrete repairs whenever damage could worsen problems. Large cracks and sunken slabs can often increase water penetration to deeper sub-base layers. If left untouched, water can cause soil erosion, exacerbating the damage.
What Types of Houston Concrete Repair Can Professionals Perform?
Fortunately, there are many forms of concrete repair in Houston. An experienced concrete repair company can assess the damage and develop the right approach for great results. For simple cracks, sealing is the go-to method. Specialty compounds fill the void, creating a smoother and more durable surface.
For more extensive damage, concrete repair companies can perform patch jobs. Patching compounds can repair damaged concrete sections for a safer and more uniform finish.
Concrete repair in Houston that requires lifting slabs back to their original position may involve techniques like mud jacking. Concrete repair companies can drill through the concrete and fill voids below to lift it.
What Is Concrete Replacement?
Concrete repair work can address relatively minor issues. However, the damage is sometimes so extensive that Houston concrete replacement companies make this a more viable choice. As the name implies, concrete replacement involves replacing damaged material with new concrete.
Concrete replacement is a more involved job that requires some demolition and excavation. However, it can put an end to repeated repair problems and give you a brand-new surface that lasts.
When Is Houston Concrete Replacement a Better Choice?
A concrete repair company will recommend replacement when the damage is extensive. Widespread cracking usually indicates bigger underlying problems and simple concrete repair only provides a temporary fix. Contractors also prefer Houston concrete replacement when potholes and sinking are excessively deep. As a rule of thumb, any holes or recessed areas that move more than eight inches benefit more from replacement services.
Concrete repair companies will also encourage replacement if damage results from poorly installed base material. A weak foundation isn’t something you can fix with simple repairs. You might see minor improvements, but the faulty base will cause damage to return.
Age can also impact your decision between repair and replacement. Concrete older than 30 years often fare better with full replacement.
Need expert service for your concrete surfaces? Pavement Services is an experienced concrete repair company that has proudly served property owners in the Houston area since 1980. We’re well-equipped to tackle projects of any size and scope, and our team applies their expertise to help you decide which services are right for your needs. We pride ourselves on being trustworthy and reliable while delivering great results.
Pavement Services is available for concrete paving, repair, foundations, ADA-compliant features and more. You can also trust us for your asphalt paving, repair and maintenance needs.
Contact the Pavement Services team today for a free project quote. We’re ready to talk shop at (713)661-9295, or, if you prefer, you can also reach out through our online contact form.