Concrete does not last forever, but it also does not always need to be torn out at the first crack. The right choice depends on what is causing the damage, what the concrete does, and how long you need the fix to last.
Start with the cause
Cracks and settlement are symptoms. The cause might be a poor base, water undermining the concrete, tree roots, heavy loads or age. A repair that ignores the cause tends to fail again. If the base has washed out or settled, the fix often involves excavation beneath the surface, not just new concrete on top.
When repair can make sense
- Damage is limited to a small area
- The base underneath is still sound
- The concrete is not structural, or an engineer confirms a repair is appropriate
- The rest of the surface has plenty of life left
When replacement is usually better
- Damage is widespread or keeps returning
- The surface has settled into a trip hazard or traps water
- Drainage slopes are wrong and need to be reset
- The base has failed or the concrete is structural and compromised
Think about the whole life
A cheaper repair that has to be redone in a few years can cost more than a replacement done once. For municipal sidewalks and curbs, replacing a full section may also be the cleanest way to restore proper drainage.
Structural concrete is different
For foundation walls, slabs carrying equipment and other load-bearing elements, the decision should involve an engineer where needed. Read more in structural concrete repairs.
Our masonry division handles concrete placement, structural repairs, curbing and walkways. Request a free estimate and include photos of the damage.
