Should You Repair or Replace Concrete Surfaces?
Thanks to its extreme durability and strength, concrete is a very common material used in commercial and industrial facilities. However, concrete structures are not indestructible. Over time, the surface will wear down and show some signs of aging. The damage may worsen if it’s not properly sealed or maintained.
When dealing with concrete surfaces that are in rough shape, how should you address them? Should you repair the damaged parts or just completely replace them? Since both options have their own pros and cons, the decision can be a tough one. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between concrete repairs and replacements.
Factors to Consider When Deciding
To help you make a sound decision, you’ll need to consider several factors when choosing whether to repair or replace your concrete surfaces:
- Age of the concrete
- Type and extent of concrete damage
- Your allotted budget
- The size or area of the concrete surface
- The appearance you want to achieve
- Integrity and stability of the concrete slab
- Costs of concrete repair vs. Replacement
When It’s Time To Repair Your Concrete Surfaces
In terms of minor issues, concrete repairs are the best option to address them. Surface-level damage like hairline cracks can be solved by applying sealant and filling in the spaces. The entire concrete repair process is quick and can be done in just a few hours. The most common repair techniques are epoxy injection, grouting, patching, and overlaying.
The concrete contractor will assess the extent of damage, prep the surface, and apply mortars and epoxy resins. After the repair procedure, coatings and sealers will be applied to help extend its lifespan.
Some of the pros of concrete repairs are cost effectiveness, increased lifespan of the structure, and improved appearance. While it’s cheaper and more cost-effective, concrete repairs may only be the temporary solution. It’s not recommended for concrete issues that are pretty severe. For concrete structures with major damage, the structural integrity should be evaluated by a concrete expert.
Situations That Call for Concrete Repairs
- Minor Cracks
- Spalls
- Sunken Steps
- Front Stoops
- Blistering
- Small Holes
- Stains and Discolorations
When it’s Time to Replace Your Concrete Floors
If the damage is too extensive, then the situation calls for a full-depth concrete replacement. This procedure involves demolishing the existing structure and pouring new concrete.
Since structural integrity is already compromised, it’s more practical and cost-effective to install a new concrete surface. An extensive concrete replacement will prevent cracks from appearing again. The concrete replacement procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Assess the damaged areas
- Break up and remove the old concrete
- Prepare the site for concrete replacement
- Build concrete forms and reinforcements
- Pour new concrete
- Apply coatings and sealers
- Cure the new concrete structure
A concrete replacement may be time-consuming, but it is necessary when the damage affects a large area of the surface. In addition, this will allow you to modify or expand the existing concrete structure. If you have an outdated concrete driveway or patio, replacing the structure is the best way to go. This can completely transform the look and feel of your space and boost your property value.
While replacing your concrete floor has many benefits, the cost is a lot higher than minor repairs. It can take several days or weeks, depending on the extent of the damage.
Situations That Call for Concrete Replacements
- Concrete surfaces that are older than 30 years
- Deep cracks wider than 1/8 inch
- Poorly installed concrete base
- Large potholes
- Drastically uneven concrete surface
- Heaving
- Concrete delamination
Talk to the Concrete Experts
Deciding whether to repair or replace your concrete surface can be a tough decision. That’s where Midstate Concrete comes in. We will guide you and tell you exactly what you need to know about concrete repairs and replacements. Our concrete experts know all the ins and outs of concrete installation and restoration.
With our extensive experience and industry expertise, we guarantee top-notch concrete services. From repairing small cracks to concrete leveling and mudjacking, our team of experts is here to help. Our company also offers concrete patio paving, sidewalk and walkway installation, concrete stamping, and more.
To learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’ll walk you through the entire process and ensure your project goes as smoothly as possible!