If you ever ask an experienced professional about concrete, they will definitely tell you two undeniable truths about concrete: it will harden, and at some point, it will crack.
Cracks in concrete are a common and inevitable issue. It develops over time due to harsh environmental conditions, improper installation, and structural stresses. Some cracks can be cosmetic, while others may indicate a serious structural issue that needs a professional expert’s attention.
This blog is a step-by-step guide to understanding what are common types of cracks in concrete. Why do they develop, and what do they mean? Which will help you understand when to take action and seek professional assistance. Let’s start exploring!
Cracks in concrete can occur due to several reasons, from minor cracks from shrinkage to major structural cracks, but identifying what type of crack occurred and what caused them can help you make the best decision required. Below are the common types of cracks in concrete:
Fresh concrete frequently develops these cracks because it dries out too quickly before proper curing. It occurs due to harsh, hot weather conditions. These cracks may not weaken the structure but eventually impact the appearance of concrete at your place.
To avoid such cracks, proper curing techniques and the use of special additives in the concrete mix can be used to control the evaporation of moisture and ultimately improve durability.
Concrete is known for its durability and strength, but still it has limits. Overloading cracks occur when the weight applied exceeds the slab’s capacity. It leads to producing cracks.
However, in residential areas like driveways and patios, the chances of overloading cracks are less, but certain conditions like melting snow and heavy rains can impact the underlying soil and make the slabs vulnerable to pressure. Besides, heavy vehicles and machinery apply pressure and increase the chances of overloading cracks.
These hairline cracks occur when concrete is curing or settling. Apparently, these cracks may seem not harmful to structural integrity due to their thin appearance. But if left unaddressed, they may lead to severe issues. For example, moisture can seep there when the temperature drops and lead to freezing. The water expands while freezing and results in widening the gaps. Timely repairs can save the structure from severe issues in the long term.
In the process of pouring concrete, the soil underneath is rarely properly compacted. This underneath loose soil continues to settle and results in sunken slabs, and cracks begin to appear on the surface due to the settling slab. However, this is not the sole factor in settling slab cracks; if any utility digs soil for pipelining and does not pay attention to proper compacting after their process. As a result, settling slab cracks occur.
These heaving cracks occur when the slab is forced upwards due to underneath pressure. It can happen due to soil expansion, frost heave during the freeze-thaw cycle, and tree roots.
As the soil continues to expand, the concrete moves along and results in an uneven surface and visible cracks. Harsh weather conditions such as freezing temperatures worsen the cracks due to trapped water expanding beneath the surface. To avoid these cracks, installing expanding joints and a proper drainage system is helpful.
These foundation settlement cracks appear along the corners, often leading to a produce star-step pattern in masonry walls. This happens when the soil beneath the foundation settles, compresses and results in sinking or an uneven surface at different rates. Certain factors may contribute to foundation settlement, such as soil compaction, inadequate site preparation during construction, and excessive moisture.
These cracks indicate the most severe damage happened to the structure. They are typically wider than 1/8 inch, and their thickness signals a deeper issue. If left unaddressed, these cracks may lead to worsening structural damage by allowing water to further damage or cause structural failure.
Certain factors contribute to structural cracks; for example:
To manage structural cracks, it is important to consult professional local experts for assistance.
Crusting cracks occur during the pouring process where the upper layer of concrete dries out more quickly than the deeper layers. This results in a rough and dry surface, which leads to cracks. It occurs due to harsh weather conditions such as windy, hot, and sunny conditions. However, these cracks are superficially not aesthetic, but they don’t cause any durability issues. But proper curing techniques can save them from widening and forming severe gaps.
These crazing cracks are a network of shallow, fine cracks that appear on the surface of concrete. However, these cracks don’t compromise the structural integrity of the overall structure, but they impact the curb appeal of your place. These cracks are formed by the rapid evaporation of moisture from the surface during the curing process. However, to avoid such cracks, it is necessary to follow proper curing techniques.
No doubt, concrete cracks are inevitable, but assessing and addressing them properly can save your time and money by avoiding worsening of damage and further complications.
For example, minor damages like hairline cracks can be fixed by using sealants. But for major damages such as structural cracks and foundation settlements, it is necessary to seek professional assistance to avoid any further complication. You can get a free quote from Eden Contracting by contacting them today.
Doing regular inspections, maintenance, and using high-quality material for fixing is helpful to minimize crack occurrence in the future.
