Concrete Repair & Restoration

When to Repair vs Replace

Not every damaged concrete surface needs complete replacement. Many issues can be fixed at a fraction of the cost of tearing out and repaving. The trick is knowing when repair makes sense and when replacement is the better long-term investment.

Minor cracks, surface spalling, and small areas of damage are usually good candidates for repair. If the concrete is still structurally sound and mostly level, repair work can add years of life. We can fill cracks, resurface worn areas, and address specific problem spots while leaving the rest of the slab intact.

On the other hand, if your concrete has widespread cracking, major settling, or large sections that have heaved or sunk, replacement often makes more sense. Trying to patch severely damaged concrete is like putting a bandaid on a broken bone. It might look better temporarily, but the underlying problems remain. We'll give you an honest assessment of what makes sense for your situation and budget.

Common Concrete Problems

Here in Crown Point, we see certain concrete issues repeatedly. Understanding what causes these problems helps prevent them in new work and guides repair strategies for existing concrete:

• Cracking from freeze-thaw cycles and temperature changes
• Spalling where the surface layer flakes off
• Settling due to poor base preparation or soil movement
• Heaving from frost or tree roots
• Scaling from deicing salt damage
• Staining from rust, oil, or organic matter
• Uneven sections creating trip hazards

Each problem has different repair approaches. Simple cracks might need filling and sealing. Spalling might require a concrete overlay. Settled sections might benefit from mudjacking or foam injection to raise them back to level. We evaluate each situation individually to recommend the most effective and economical solution.

Our Repair Methods

We use various techniques depending on what your concrete needs. For crack repair, we clean out the crack, prepare the edges, and fill with appropriate materials. Small cracks get flexible sealant. Larger cracks might need routing and filling with specialized repair mortars. We can also install staples or stitching across cracks to prevent further spreading.

Surface damage like spalling or scaling often responds well to concrete resurfacing. We apply a thin layer of polymer-modified concrete over the existing surface to create a fresh, durable finish. This technique works great for damaged driveways, worn patios, and deteriorated walkways where the underlying concrete is still sound.

For sunken or settled sections, we can lift and level concrete using mudjacking or polyurethane foam injection. This process raises the slab back to its original position without the expense of replacement. It's particularly effective for sidewalks, driveway approaches, and garage floors that have settled over time.

Restoration Services

Beyond fixing damage, we also offer restoration services that improve the appearance of old concrete. Maybe your driveway is still functional but looks tired and worn. Restoration techniques can give it new life without the cost of replacement.

Concrete staining adds rich color to plain gray surfaces. We can create earth tones, custom colors, or even multi-color designs. Acid staining creates variegated, natural-looking color that's permanent and won't peel or chip. Water-based stains offer more color options and consistent coverage.

Pressure washing and sealing can dramatically improve how old concrete looks. Years of dirt, mildew, and stains wash away to reveal the concrete underneath. Following up with a quality sealer protects the surface, enriches the color, and makes future cleaning easier. For Crown Point homeowners looking to enhance their property, these restoration options from Built4You Crown Point Concrete provide excellent value.

Frequently Asked Questions