Repair or Replace; Which is Best for Concrete?

November 12, 2015

Concrete can be damaged with everyday use, and the common question is whether it is easier to repair a cracked surface or to replace it altogether. Often, for small cracks or an isolated damaged surface, repairing those areas of damage will suffice. Technology now means that repair options are less-expensive, faster drying and stronger than previous products.

However, there are some specific circumstances where replacing the concrete is necessary, as repairs will only be a short term fix to a wider problem. Our experts here at Roadmaster Concrete Mixers have listed those scenarios below.

Sunken Concrete

Sunken concrete can occur if the subgrade was not properly prepared or compacted, causing the land to settle once the concrete has set and thereby creating an unevenness in the concrete slab.

A full replacement is required in this instance, as the concrete must be removed and the subgrade replaced with compactable material in order for the fresh concrete to be level.

Frost Heave

This is a particularly common occurrence in areas with cold climates. Frost heave occurs when moisture in the ground freezes, pushing the concrete surface upwards. As the damage comes from the subgrade level of the concrete, a replacement of both the concrete and compacted subgrade is essential to ensure the ground is not frozen again.

Cracks with Settlement

Concrete can sometimes crack under pressure from large vehicles or an uneven subgrade. If the concrete is cracked all the way through, it is too severely damaged to be repaired and should be replaced. If the cracks are left, moisture could enter the concrete and create even greater damage if it froze.

 

Here at Roadmaster Concrete Mixers, our volumetric concrete mixers ensure you receive high quality equipment in efficient delivery times.

Contact us today for more information on the services we offer, and we’ll be happy to help.