Concrete is a popular building material that is known for its durability and strength. However, even the strongest concrete can crack over time. Understanding why concrete cracks is important for homeowners and business owners alike, as it can help prevent costly repairs and ensure the longevity of their concrete structures.

There are several reasons why concrete may crack, including:

1. Shrinkage

One of the most common reasons for concrete cracking is shrinkage. As concrete dries and cures, it can shrink slightly, which can cause cracks to form. This type of cracking is often referred to as "drying shrinkage" and typically occurs within the first few weeks after the concrete has been poured.

2. Settlement

Another common cause of concrete cracking is settlement. When soil beneath a concrete slab shifts or compresses, it can cause the slab to settle unevenly. This can lead to stress on the concrete, which can result in cracking.

3. Overloading

Concrete is designed to withstand a certain amount of weight and pressure. If too much weight or pressure is placed on a slab of concrete, it can crack under the strain.

4. Freezing and Thawing

In colder climates, water can seep into small cracks in concrete and freeze during the winter months. As water freezes, it expands, which can cause small cracks to widen and become more pronounced over time.

At Rapid, we specialize in polyurethane concrete lifting and crack stitch concrete crack repair services that are designed to address these issues head-on. Our team of experts uses state-of-the-art techniques and materials to lift settled slabs back into place and repair cracks before they become larger problems.

By understanding why your concrete may be cracking in the first place, you can take steps to prevent further damage from occurring down the road. And if you do need professional help with your cracked or settled concrete, know that Rapid Raise & Sprays has got you covered!

Depending on the severity, it may be possible that you need to remove and replace the concrete. However, if you would like to save over half the cost of replacement, first look into a carbon fiber repair system or polyjacking. 

The best way to prevent future cracking of concrete is to keep the concrete well-maintained and regularly sealed. This will help protect the concrete from damage caused by moisture, temperature fluctuations, and other environmental factors. Additionally, look out for any signs of possible stress when checking your concrete and act quickly if a crack is noticed. Check out our joint and hydrophobic sealers if you want maximum life out of your concrete. 

Yes - different sealers suit different uses depending on what kind of protection you need for your concrete. For instance, some sealers are ideal for outdoor use while others are better suited for indoor applications. It’s important to understand which type of sealer would work best in each situation for optimal performance and protection. We offer a full line of sealing products that are reasonably priced and are what we believe to be the best on the market, and we've done our research.

If you notice a crack that is more than 1/4 inch wide, it’s likely time to repair it. Also, any cracks that appear to be getting bigger should also be repaired.

The longevity of your repair depends largely on how well it was done and how much strain is placed on the repaired area over time. Generally speaking, repairs can last anywhere from several years to decades, depending on the extent of damage and care taken during the repair process.Generally, we can extend the life of existing concrete by double or triple what it would have lasted if it goes untouched. 

Yes, but it typically requires professional intervention due to the complexity of the repair process. With professional help, you can use a variety of methods such as foam injections or structural repairs depending on the size and severity of the crack.Call us today to schedule a free inspection and estimate. 

Generally speaking, you should reseal your concrete every three to five years depending on the conditions it’s exposed to (e.g., weather). If you notice that your sealant is starting to wear off before this recommended time period or if water begins seeping through cracks or into small holes in your surface, then it may be time to reapply a new coat of sealer. We generally use a 10% per year degrading scale.