Concrete Repair & Replacement

When to Repair vs When to Replace

Not every crack or damaged section means you need to tear out and replace your entire concrete surface. Many problems can be repaired effectively at a fraction of the replacement cost. The key is knowing when repair makes sense and when replacement is the better choice.

Small cracks, surface spalling, minor settling, and isolated damage typically respond well to repair. If the underlying structure remains sound and the damage affects less than 30 percent of the surface, repair usually makes economic sense. We can restore both function and appearance without the disruption and expense of full replacement.

However, extensive cracking, major settling, widespread surface deterioration, or structural failure often require replacement. When the base has failed or the concrete has reached the end of its lifespan, attempting repairs becomes like putting bandages on a serious injury. In these cases, replacement provides better long-term value.

Common Issues We Repair

• •Hairline and small cracks that need sealing to prevent expansion
• •Surface spalling and flaking caused by freeze-thaw damage
• •Minor settling or sinking sections that create trip hazards
• •Isolated areas damaged by tree roots or soil movement
• •Broken corners and edges from impact or weathering
• •Stains and discoloration that affect appearance

Professional Repair Methods

We use proven repair techniques that restore your concrete surfaces to like-new condition. Each repair method addresses specific problems and provides lasting results.

Crack Filling and Sealing

For cracks up to half an inch wide, we clean out any debris and fill the crack with flexible polyurethane or epoxy sealant. These materials bond to the concrete and flex with temperature changes, preventing the crack from reopening. We match the sealant color to your concrete for a clean appearance. This prevents water infiltration that could cause further damage.

Surface Resurfacing

When the surface is worn, pitted, or spalled but the underlying concrete remains sound, resurfacing provides a cost-effective solution. We apply a thin layer of specialized concrete overlay that bonds to the existing surface. This creates a fresh, new appearance and adds years to the life of your concrete. We can apply various textures and colors to match or enhance your property.

Partial Replacement

For severely damaged sections, we can remove and replace just the affected area rather than the entire slab. We cut out the damaged concrete, prepare the base, and pour new concrete that matches the existing surface. This approach saves money while eliminating problem areas. We pay careful attention to matching the finish and creating proper joints to blend the repair seamlessly.

Slab Jacking

When sections of your driveway or patio have settled and become uneven, slab jacking can lift them back to the proper level. We drill small holes in the sunken slab and pump a special grout mixture underneath. As the void fills, the slab rises. This eliminates trip hazards and improves drainage without the cost of replacement.

Spall Repair

Spalling occurs when the surface layer flakes away, exposing the aggregate underneath. This typically results from freeze-thaw cycles or the use of de-icing salts. We remove all loose material, roughen the surface for better adhesion, and apply a patching compound that bonds permanently. The repair restores the smooth surface and prevents further deterioration.

The Cost of Waiting

Small concrete problems do not fix themselves. They get worse over time, and the longer you wait, the more expensive the repair becomes. What starts as a small crack can expand into a major structural issue if left unaddressed.

Water is concrete's biggest enemy. When water enters through cracks and freezes, it expands and widens the crack. The freeze-thaw cycle repeats throughout winter, causing a small crack to become a significant problem. Water that penetrates beneath the slab can wash away the base material, leading to settling and further cracking.

Minor surface damage like small spalls can spread across the surface as more material breaks away. What could have been a simple patch becomes a resurfacing project or even complete replacement.

Beyond the financial cost, damaged concrete poses safety risks. Uneven surfaces create trip hazards. Large cracks can catch feet, bicycle tires, or wheeled equipment. As a property owner, you have a responsibility to maintain safe conditions.

We recommend addressing concrete damage as soon as you notice it. A small repair now costs much less than major work later. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs extend the life of your concrete and protect your investment. When you spot a problem, give us a call. We will assess the damage, explain your options, and provide an honest recommendation about whether repair or replacement makes more sense.

Frequently Asked Questions