Understanding Concrete Cracking

Concrete cracks are fairly common. Just because there is a crack does not mean your building’s structure is unsound. One of the things that matters here is the cause of the crack: understanding whether it is continuing and what effect it has on the durability and safety of the concrete. 

Keep reading as you will get the hang of warning signs, how and when to repair, and when it is best to seek professional help.

What Causes Concrete Cracks?

Over time, concrete undergoes processes such as drying, curing, and temperature changes that cause it to naturally expand and contract. Surface cracks, such as hairline cracks, are quite common due to regular drying, temperature changes, or minor settling.

You should check:

• How long ago did the crack first appear
• Getting wider or longer with time, or remaining the same
• Leaving water to drip through
• Sinking or moving of the adjacent concrete
• Doors, walls, or floors also show movement

In such cases, the crack that keeps widening is the one that deserves close attention.

Consider Concrete Crack Repair

If it is only a thin surface crack on a flat area of a pavement that is not moving, you need to monitor and seal it. Still, for a wider or actively moving crack, the repair could be more specific. 

These are the types of cracks that require a professional assessment:

• Cracks wider than normal hairline cracks; cracks that spread rapidly.
• Cracks that go through structural elements or involve uneven or sinking concrete.
• Cracks that allow considerable seepage of water or cracks that appear with rust.

The right approach for crack repair for concrete is to identify the root cause rather than merely masking the damage. If movement or water still acts on the concrete, an overlay might fail, and the crack will reappear.

Importance of Concrete Crack Filler

A concrete crack filler works well for small, non-moving cracks that are not in critical or highly water-prone areas. It prevents water and dirt from getting into the hole, and the surface can even look much better. In areas that are constantly exposed to moisture, appropriate waterproofing coating for concrete can also help prevent water-induced damage to the already repaired concrete surface.

Ordinary filler might also fail in such a scenario, where cracks are repaired by some means, leaving movement and exposure as factors. The right material for the job depends on the nature of the crack, its location, whether it is a movement crack, and the type of exposure it is subjected to.

FAQs

Is it normal for concrete to crack?

Concrete is a mixture that is made and cured with water. So minor shrinkage and surface cracks, which are natural events because of shrinkage, are unavoidable. What actually should raise one’s concern is not whether a crack appeared, but whether it remains stable or shows signs of movement and deterioration.

When should I worry about a crack in concrete?

You should worry about a crack when it widens, develops very quickly, lets in water, causes uneven terrain, or even accompanies other features like rust, spalling, or structural movement. These types of cracks definitely call for an expert to examine them. 

Can I repair concrete cracks myself?

If you have a small crack on the surface and it has been stable for a long time, you can still repair it yourself using the appropriate materials. Yet if the cracks are larger, moving, or related to a structural issue, you should consult a professional before deciding to repair them yourself. 

Protect Your Concrete With Sealbond

Cracks can be treated relatively easily and inexpensively if you catch up with them early enough. If your concrete is prone to moisture, movement, or heavy use, selecting the right repair and protection method can prevent small problems from becoming big ones. Sealbond can guide you through all the best ways to protect concrete. Contact us now for affordable solutions that not only protect your concrete surfaces but also ensure that your construction is durable and long-lasting.