Are you searching for images of concrete crack repair before and after? If so, you’ve landed on the right page because that’s what this article is about. In addition to images of concrete crack repair before and after, we’ll also review why concrete slabs crack and become uneven, repair solutions, and how to help prevent cracks in concrete slabs.
Why Do Concrete Slabs Crack and Become Uneven
Concrete is strong and durable. However, it’s not indestructible. Given the right (or rather, wrong!) conditions, concrete slabs can develop cracks or become uneven. Here are some ways that happens:
- Expansive soil – Expansive soil contains a lot of clay, and this causes it to expand when it gets wet and shrink when it dries. This creates movement under the slab and can, over time, cause it to become uneven and crack.
- Erosion-prone soil – Some types of soil are easily eroded. This can cause voids under the sidewalk, driveway, patio, etc., leading to settlement and a cracked slab.
- Improperly prepared soil – If the soil under the slab wasn’t correctly prepared before the slab was poured, the slab could eventually settle into the ground unevenly and crack.
- Invasive tree roots – We’ve all seen examples of tree roots pushing up on a sidewalk or driveway and causing it to crack and become uneven.
- Improper installation – Improper installation techniques and the use of poor-quality materials can also contribute to the deterioration of concrete slabs. If the concrete isn’t mixed correctly or the surface isn’t properly finished, it can lead to cracks.
How To Repair A Cracked, Uneven Slab
The good news is most cracked, and uneven concrete slabs can be fixed in just a few hours using a technique called polyurethane foam injection. This involves injecting high-density polyurethane foam under the slab to lift and level it.
- The first step involves drilling small, dime-sized holes into the affected slab.
- Next, the polyurethane foam is injected under the slab via the small holes. The foam immediately begins to expand, filling the voids and raising the slab. The foam hardens quickly, forming a solid, stable base that supports the slab.
- The holes are patched using a compound that closely matches the color of the concrete.
- You can start using the slab again fifteen minutes or so after the repair is complete.
After the slab has been lifted, any tiny cracks can then be sealed using epoxy.
Concrete Crack Repair Before And After
Does Polyurethane Foam Injection Work On Every Cracked Concrete Slab?
If the concrete slab is severely damaged, it will probably need to be torn up and replaced. However, in most cases a cracked, uneven slab can be repaired using polyurethane foam injection.
Can I Fix A Cracked Concrete Slab Myself Using Foam?
No, using polyurethane foam to repair a cracked concrete slab is a job for the pros because it requires training, experience, and specialized equipment.
Is Lifting A Concrete Slab Using Foam Better Than Mudjacking?
Mudjacking is the old school way of lifting and leveling an uneven slab. It involves drilling larger holes into the slab and then injecting a cement slurry to fill any voids and raise the slab. While mudjacking is still being used, today, polyurethane foam injection is far more popular for various reasons including the fact that it’s very lightweight and can be completed in just a few hours. For more information, see. Polyurethane Lifting Versus Mudjacking.
How To Prevent Concrete Slabs From Cracking And Becoming Uneven
Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent concrete slabs from cracking and becoming uneven. These include the following:
- Proper site preparation – Proper site preparation is essential before pouring the concrete. This includes all organic debris (leaves, etc.) and adequately compacting the soil so it provides a stable base for the concrete.
- Add expansion joints – These are gaps created between concrete slabs that help to prevent cracks from forming by creating a space for the concrete to move without damaging an adjacent slab. You can think of them as predetermined cracks.
- Keep trees away from the slab – While it’s not always possible, it’s best to keep trees away from the slab so their root systems don’t invade and push against the slab.
- Ensure good drainage around the slab – This will prevent problems with expansive soil and with soil erosion.
If you’re concerned about a cracked or uneven concrete slab on your property (sidewalk, driveway, patio, pool deck, etc.), contact us today to schedule an evaluation and receive a repair estimate. We serve Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada.
