Concrete Repair & Replacement

When Repair Makes Sense

Not every crack or damaged section requires tearing out and replacing your entire concrete surface. Many problems can be repaired effectively at a fraction of replacement cost. The key is knowing when repair will give you years of additional service and when replacement is the smarter long-term investment.

We evaluate concrete damage throughout Park Ridge and give you honest recommendations. If your driveway has a few isolated cracks but the rest is solid, repair makes sense. If your patio has one sunken corner but the concrete itself is in good shape, we can often level it without replacement. On the other hand, if your slab has extensive cracking, severe settling, or structural problems, replacement might be the better value. We explain what we see and why we recommend each option.

Concrete repair technology has improved dramatically. Modern materials bond strongly to existing concrete and resist the same weather and wear that damaged the original surface. Repairs done right blend in visually and perform well for many years. We use professional-grade products and proven techniques that deliver lasting results, not temporary patches that fail after one winter.

Common Concrete Problems We Fix

Concrete damage comes in many forms. Here are the most common issues we address for homeowners and businesses in Park Ridge.

Cracks

Cracks happen for various reasons. Shrinkage during curing, freeze-thaw cycles, settling soil, or excessive loads all cause cracking. Small hairline cracks are often just cosmetic, but wider cracks allow water penetration that leads to bigger problems. We clean out cracks, fill them with flexible repair compounds, and seal the surface to prevent moisture intrusion. The repair material moves with the concrete as temperatures change, preventing the crack from reopening immediately.

Spalling and Surface Damage

Spalling is when the concrete surface flakes, chips, or breaks apart. This often results from water freezing in the surface layer or using de-icing salts that damage concrete. We remove loose material, prepare the surface properly, and apply repair mortar that bonds to the existing concrete. The repaired area can then be finished to match the surrounding surface, whether that is a smooth finish or textured decorative concrete.

Settling and Uneven Surfaces

When soil shifts or washes away beneath concrete, the slab settles and becomes uneven. This creates trip hazards on walkways and drainage problems on patios or driveways. We offer concrete leveling services that lift sunken sections back to their original position. This process is much faster and less expensive than replacement while solving the underlying problem. For severe settling or if the base has failed completely, replacement might be necessary.

Repair vs. Replacement Decision

Deciding between repair and replacement depends on several factors. We help you weigh these considerations to make the most cost-effective choice.

• Extent of damage across the entire surface
• Age and overall condition of the concrete
• Structural integrity and whether the base has failed
• Your budget and timeline for the project
• How long you plan to stay in the property
• Whether you want to update the appearance or layout

Generally, if less than 30 percent of your concrete needs attention and the rest is sound, repair makes financial sense. If damage covers more than half the surface or if you have ongoing settling issues, replacement often proves more economical long-term. We provide detailed assessments and quotes for both options when applicable so you can make an informed decision.

Sometimes homeowners choose replacement even when repair would work because they want to change the size, layout, or appearance of their concrete. If you have been thinking about expanding your patio or adding decorative elements to your driveway, replacement gives you the opportunity to redesign while addressing damage. We can show you options for both paths and help you choose what makes the most sense for your situation and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions