Can Crumbling Concrete Be Repaired?

You’ve probably heard something described as being “as hard as concrete” before, but contrary to what that turn of phrase might suggest, the concrete used to construct building foundations, sidewalks, and floors is far from indestructible. In fact, concrete is just as susceptible to wear and tear as any other building material, and it can also sustain serious harm from water, debris, and even plant life.

If you’re wondering whether crumbling concrete can be repaired on your property, you’ve come to the right place. At Integrity Paving, we have over 200 years of combined experience handling all kinds of concrete repairs and replacements, and we can help you find the right solution for your needs.

What Kinds of Concrete Damage Can Be Repaired?

The main factor determining whether crumbling concrete can be repaired is how much of the concrete is actually crumbling—or rather, how deeply the damage penetrates into the concrete structure. Generally, if a concrete floor, foundation, step, or sidewalk slab is crumbling only on its edges or has only a hairline crack running through a small portion of it, you’ll likely be able to repair it rather than needing a full replacement.

Before undertaking any concrete repair, though, it’s important to remove every single bit of worn-down or decayed material first, ideally starting with a stiff scrub brush or even a hammer and chisel, then ending with a rinse from a hose. You’ll also want to apply cement paint or primer to the affected area once it dries, apply multiple layers of patching material spread out over several hours, and keep the area covered and moist for a few days after the patching. It’s a more complicated and involved process than you might expect, and it’s something our team of experts at Integrity Paving can help with.

When Is It Time to Replace Concrete?

Unfortunately, not all concrete damage can be repaired, even with modern patching products and techniques. Deep cracks, depressions in the center of concrete slabs, and widespread foundation damage may require a much more comprehensive approach, especially if there’s visible water damage or exposed rebar.

One thing worth noting is that not every type of concrete crack will necessarily require replacements or even repairs. For example, while horizontal cracks in a building’s foundation are often a sign of serious structural damage, vertical and diagonal cracks can sometimes occur naturally as new concrete settles and shrinks. They typically aren’t serious problems unless they’re more than an eighth-inch wide or “stair-step” up multiple bricks.

Integrity Paving Can Help Repair or Replace Crumbling Concrete

Crumbling and cracked concrete can be visually unappealing and potentially dangerous if they indicate a deeper structural problem. Either way, fixing those flaws can be challenging unless you get help from trustworthy and experienced concrete repair experts. Call Integrity Paving today to schedule a free consultation and learn what our team can do for you.