Concrete is a durable and essential material used in everything from driveways to sidewalks and foundations. However, like all materials, it is not immune to wear and tear.

Over time, you may start to notice signs that your concrete needs attention. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to bigger, more costly repairs down the road.

In this article, we’ll explore four key signs that indicate your concrete may need repair and offer practical solutions to address them.

Cracks in the Concrete

Types of Cracks to Watch For

Hairline cracks are thin and often appear due to minor settling. While not always serious, they can worsen over time. Larger cracks, often called structural cracks, can affect the stability of your concrete and should be repaired quickly.

Expansion cracks, caused by temperature changes, can also appear on concrete surfaces. Lastly, shrinkage cracks happen as the concrete dries and contracts. Identifying the type of crack is the first step in deciding how to repair your concrete properly.

Causes of Cracks in Concrete

Cracks in concrete can occur for several reasons. One common cause is shrinkage, which happens as the concrete dries and loses moisture, leading to small cracks.

Another cause is temperature changes. Extreme heat or cold can make concrete expand and contract, causing cracks to form.

Heavy loads or improper installation can also stress the concrete, leading to larger cracks over time. Poor ground preparation before pouring the concrete may result in uneven settling, which creates additional cracks.

Repair Options for Concrete Cracks

When it comes to concrete repair, the method depends on the size and type of crack. For small, hairline cracks, using a concrete filler or sealer is often enough to prevent further damage. Larger cracks may require a patching compound, which is applied to fill and smooth the damaged area.

In cases where the cracks are deep or structural, professional concrete repair services might be needed to ensure the surface remains safe and stable.

Additionally, resurfacing can restore the concrete’s appearance if there is widespread cracking. Addressing cracks early can extend the life of your concrete and prevent costly repairs.

Uneven or Sunken Surfaces

Common Causes of Concrete Settling

Uneven or sunken concrete surfaces are often caused by issues with the soil beneath the concrete. One common cause is poor soil compaction before the concrete is poured, which leads to settling over time. Water erosion can also wash away soil, leaving gaps that cause the concrete to sink.

Additionally, heavy loads placed on the surface can put extra pressure on the soil, leading to uneven concrete. Tree roots growing beneath the surface may also cause lifting or cracking.

Identifying the cause of settling is important in determining the best way to level and repair the concrete surface.

Risks of Ignoring Uneven Concrete

One major risk is safety hazards, as uneven surfaces increase the chance of trips and falls. This can result in injuries, particularly in high-traffic areas like sidewalks or driveways. Additionally, uneven concrete can worsen over time, leading to more expensive repairs if left untreated.

Water can pool in low spots, which may cause further damage by eroding the soil or weakening the concrete. In some cases, this can affect the structural integrity of nearby buildings or foundations.

How to Level and Lift Concrete

Leveling and lifting uneven or sunken concrete can be done through several effective concrete repair methods.

One common solution is slab jacking, where a special grout is pumped beneath the sunken concrete to lift it back to its original level. Another option is foam injection, where expanding foam is used to raise the concrete.

Both methods are efficient and can restore the surface without needing full replacement. For minor leveling issues, resurfacing the concrete might be enough to smooth out the area. Proper concrete repair not only fixes the issue but also prevents further sinking and ensures a safe, durable surface.

Discoloration and Staining

What Causes Concrete Discoloration?

Concrete, like resin, can also change colour over time. One common cause is moisture, which can seep into the concrete and cause dark spots or uneven coloring. Another factor is improper curing, where the concrete dries too quickly or unevenly, leading to visible color differences.

Chemicals, such as de-icing salts or oil spills, can also stain the surface over time. Additionally, exposure to sunlight may cause the concrete to fade or develop a patchy appearance.

Understanding the causes of discoloration can help you choose the right concrete repair or cleaning method to restore its original look.

How Stains Indicate Structural Issues

Dark, wet-looking stains may indicate that water is seeping through cracks or voids, leading to potential damage over time. Rust-colored stains can be a warning that the metal reinforcements inside the concrete are corroding, which weakens the structure.

Stains from chemical spills, such as oil or de-icing salts, can also break down the surface, leading to cracking or crumbling. Addressing these stains early not only improves the appearance but also helps prevent further deterioration and costly concrete repair in the future.

Cleaning and Resurfacing to Fix Stains

Cleaning and resurfacing are effective concrete repair solutions to fix discoloration and staining. For minor stains, power washing or using specialized concrete cleaners can remove surface discoloration.

If stains are deeper or more widespread, resurfacing may be necessary. Resurfacing involves applying a thin layer of new concrete or overlay, which restores the surface and hides stains. This method not only improves the appearance but also strengthens the concrete.

Regular maintenance, like sealing the surface, can prevent future stains and prolong the life of your concrete, ensuring it looks clean and fresh for years to come.

Surface Pitting or Flaking (Spalling)

What Is Spalling and Why Does It Happen?

Spalling is when the surface of concrete begins to pit or flake, often creating an uneven and rough appearance. This typically happens due to freeze-thaw cycles, where moisture enters the concrete and expands when frozen, causing the surface to break apart.

Poor finishing techniques, such as overworking the concrete, can also contribute to spalling. Additionally, exposure to de-icing salts or harsh chemicals can weaken the concrete’s top layer, leading to flaking.

Spalling is not just cosmetic; if left untreated, it can expose the inner layers of concrete, making it more vulnerable to further damage.

How to Prevent Further Damage

To prevent further damage from spalling, it's important to take action early. Start by sealing your concrete with a high-quality waterproof sealant to protect it from moisture, especially in freeze-thaw conditions. Avoid using harsh chemicals or de-icing salts, as they can weaken the surface.

Regular maintenance, including cleaning and reapplying sealant as needed, will keep your concrete protected. Addressing spalling early ensures that the concrete remains strong and prevents costly repairs in the future.

Repair Techniques for Pitted Concrete

Repairing pitted or flaking concrete can be done through several concrete repair techniques. For minor surface damage, applying a concrete resurfacer is a quick and effective solution. This creates a smooth, fresh layer over the existing concrete, filling in pits and covering flaked areas.

For deeper pits, patching compounds may be needed to repair the damaged sections before resurfacing. In severe cases, grinding down the damaged areas and applying a new layer of concrete may be necessary.

Regular maintenance, such as sealing the surface, helps prevent future pitting and prolongs the life of your concrete.

All images: shedbuilt.com

Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors. She launched award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014 and the luxury interior design blog All The Pretty Homes in 2024. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.