Common Problems with Concrete and How to Fix Them

Concrete is widely used because it’s durable and aesthetically pleasing. However, over time, it can develop various flaws, especially if it’s poorly processed, badly maintained, or exposed to extreme weather. Here are some of the most common problems with the material.

Cracking

Cracking concrete isn’t usually something to worry about unless it’s in a supporting structure. Essentially, concrete is a mixture of water and cement. With time, the water evaporates, and the concrete hardens, shrinks, and eventually cracks. Sometimes the cracks are also the result of poor mixing, improper drying, or excessive pressure. To repair this, you can try to patch them up with concrete filler though it’s usually difficult to do alone.

If you need professional repair and sealing services related to concrete Calgary based CanWest Concrete Cutting & Coring has years of experience in the field. Serving Western Canada, this family-owned and operated company has been in business for over three decades. What’s more, they are professional, reliable, boast a fleet of vehicles and equipment, and carry an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Crazing

Crazing is one of the most common issues with concrete. These are a network of superficial fissures that usually occur because of shrinkage. While these blemishes look unpleasant, they don’t usually affect structural integrity.

Scaling

Scaling starts innocuously enough. Small patches peel off initially, but the phenomenon can develop into a large unsightly area. This happens to concrete that’s suffered from extreme freeze-thaw cycles, water seepage, incomplete curing, or poor finishing. It’s best to hire a company to repair your scaling issue quickly before it gets out of hand.

Curling

Curling looks concerning and can be unsafe. It’s the deformation of a concrete slab into a curved shape with edges bending forwards or backwards. Curling can also cause the middle of a slab to lift from the base, resulting in a hazard. Eventually, a slab with this deformity will break, so it’s best to have it fixed by a professional quickly.

Discoloration

Discoloration on concrete can be displeasing to the eye. It can occur due to the following reasons.

• Inconsistent mixing
• Insufficient curing time
• Rushed finishing
• Material exposure
• Weather conditions

Sometimes, the discoloration can inexplicably happen despite a contractor’s best efforts. Thankfully, remedies exist. To tackle the issue, you can try items like baking soda, vinegar, bleach, or professional chemicals. Keep in mind that the improper application of these fixes can make the discoloration worse, so consult with a professional beforehand.

Buckling

Buckling is one of the more serious problems with concrete. This is when a concrete slab splits apart into many pieces. It can happen because of heat exposure, extreme freeze-thaw cycles, and even large trees. Sometimes, roots can grow under a concrete structure, ripping it into many fragments. Fixing buckling can be a long and expensive process. It may require the removal of a tree, roots, and broken concrete, before a costly reinstallation.

Eventually, all concrete will run into problems you can’t manage on your own. This is when you reach out to a professional. If the issues are beyond mending, then your contractor may need to completely remove the concrete to start afresh. Fortunately, some contractors wear many hats in the concrete business. For your convenience, find a reputable company that offers multiple services, from cutting to pouring.