Concrete Crack Prevention: The All-Inclusive Checklist

There is one thing that anyone who knows concrete will tell you – it cracks.  As of right now, there is no stopping that. Still, concrete is the second most used building material (after water) around the world due to its formability and durability. 

So, then… how can you take care of your concrete? If we can’t eliminate cracking, then can we at least reduce it? Sorry to say that  there is no “easy five minute hack” here. Still, if you can check all of these boxes then, you’ll be sure to get the maximum life from your concrete investment.

 Ο Pre-Construction Planning

Assess the stress factors that will be placed upon the concrete including intended load, environmental conditions, and function of the concrete structure. Using this information, you will then develop a strategic combination of cement, aggregates, admixtures and/or reinforcement designed to withstand these stress factors. 

 

Ο Strategic Joint Placement

The general rule-of-thumb is to place a concrete joint every 10-12 linear feet, but that’s just the bare minimum. Ideally, you’ll want to place joints as often as necessary in anticipation of pressure points, traffic, and the pour site to prevent any significant cracks from diminishing the integrity of the concrete structure.

Ο Control Your Water-to-Cement Ratio

The water-to-cement ratio should be kept as low as possible, while still being workable, with an even coating of aggregates throughout the mixture. A lower ratio means stronger concrete with less shrinkage cracks.

Ο Consolidate the Concrete

To “consolidate” – to combine (a number of things) into a single more effective or coherent whole. Vibrators are often used to consolidate concrete by bringing bubbles to the surface  – allowing the concrete to fill all corners of the formwork.

Ο Monitor and Maintain Curing

Allow the concrete to cure sufficiently, and with consistent moisture. (24 hours before walking, 7 days for driving, 14-28 days to build) Consider additional curing techniques such as water curing, plastic sheets, or spray on curing compounds.

Ο Protect from Extreme Temperatures

Extreme temperatures can spell out bad news for concrete. High temperatures put concrete at risk for rapid drying, while lower temperatures subject concrete to damaging freeze-thaw cycles. Experienced concrete contractors plan for these risks with things like …

• • insulating blankets, hay, and heaters during colder weather

• • shading or evaporative coolers in hotter weather.

Ο Apply Concrete Sealant

Concrete Sealant is a protective coating that covers the porous concrete surface, locking in color, and repelling stains. Sealants can also help protect the concrete from damage caused by harsh chemicals.

 

Ο Clean, Reseal, and Repair

It can be hard to notice cracks through dirt, oil, and other build-up that may accumulate on your concrete’s surface. By regularly cleaning and resealing your concrete’s surface you will remove organic debris, expose cracks for repair, and restore the appearance/integrity of your concrete structure.

Most concrete fares well with annual maintenance. However, if your concrete is subjected to higher amounts of traffic, then you may consider increasing the frequency of your maintenance services as well.

Ο Inspect and Repair Cracks

Inspect for cracks (big and small) and repair as-needed. By repairing concrete cracks, you will reduce water erosion, and prevent separation caused by roots or vegetation. 

While we recommend having any structural cracks repaired by an experienced concrete professional (especially for foundation repairs), you may want to consider repairing smaller, non-structural, cracks with concrete crack fillers available at Lowe’s and Home Depot.

Ο Keep an Eye on Water & Roots

If you’re trying to keep your concrete pristine for as long as possible, then you’ll want to be attentive to water drainage and landscaping on your property. 

Water can slowly erode your concrete, and cause small cracks to widen over time. Homeowners should always consider how landscaping projects might impact the flow of water around the property, and ensure that they divert water away from concrete structures. 

Another overlooked aspect of the relationship between concrete and landscaping is the removal of trees, or other larger vegetation, around the property. When homeowners remove large plants with widespread roots, and forget to consider their concrete in the process, then they may induce unanticipated concrete settling as the roots beneath the concrete begin to biodegrade.

If you’ve made it through this checklist, then congratulations! You’re off to a great start (better than most homeowners) at protecting your concrete driveway, patio, or slab.

Ready to put your knowledge to the test?

(Don’t worry – we’ve got your back!)