Concrete Repair & Replacement

When to Repair vs Replace Concrete

Not all concrete damage requires a full replacement. Sometimes a simple repair can restore your concrete to like-new condition at a fraction of the cost. Other times, replacement is the smarter long-term solution. The key is knowing which approach makes sense for your situation.

Minor surface cracks, small chips, and cosmetic damage can usually be repaired. Hairline cracks under a quarter inch wide are normal and do not affect the structural integrity of the concrete. We can fill these with specialized sealants that prevent water intrusion and stop them from spreading. Spalling (surface flaking) can be resurfaced with a thin concrete overlay that looks like new.

However, if your concrete has large cracks (wider than a quarter inch), severe settling, extensive spalling, or structural damage, replacement is usually the better option. Continuing to patch failing concrete is like putting a bandage on a broken bone. It might look better temporarily, but the underlying problems will keep getting worse. We will assess your concrete honestly and recommend the most cost-effective solution for your needs.

Common Concrete Problems We Fix

Concrete is incredibly durable, but it is not indestructible. Over time, various issues can develop that affect both appearance and safety. Here are the most common problems we repair:

• Cracks: Caused by settling, freeze-thaw cycles, heavy loads, or inadequate reinforcement. Small cracks can be sealed, larger ones may require replacement.
• Settling or sinking: When the soil underneath shifts or erodes, concrete slabs can settle unevenly, creating trip hazards and drainage problems.
• Spalling and scaling: Surface deterioration that makes concrete look old and worn. Often caused by moisture, freeze-thaw damage, or poor finishing.
• Discoloration and staining: Oil, rust, mold, and other contaminants can permanently stain concrete. Some stains can be cleaned or covered, others require resurfacing.
• Uneven surfaces: Trip hazards from lifted or sunken slabs that create dangerous height differences between sections.
• Deteriorating joints: Expansion joints and control joints can crack and deteriorate, allowing water to seep under the concrete.

We handle repairs for driveways, patios, walkways, steps, and more. If you are planning new concrete work alongside repairs, we also offer driveway installation and patio construction.

Our Repair and Replacement Process

We start every repair or replacement project with a thorough inspection. We assess the extent of the damage, identify the underlying cause, and determine whether repair or replacement is the best approach. We will explain what we find and give you honest recommendations with transparent pricing.

For repairs, we clean and prepare the damaged area, then apply appropriate repair materials like epoxy, polymer-modified concrete, or specialized patching compounds. For resurfacing, we apply a thin overlay of fresh concrete over the existing surface to create a like-new appearance. For settling issues, we may use mud jacking or poly jacking to lift and level sunken slabs.

For replacements, we remove the damaged concrete, address any underlying soil or drainage issues, and install new concrete using proper techniques and materials. We make sure the new section matches the surrounding concrete as closely as possible in color and texture. Whether we are repairing a small section or replacing an entire driveway, we treat every job with the same level of care and professionalism. We also handle walkway and flatwork repairs throughout Hackensack.

Preventing Future Concrete Problems

Once we fix your concrete, you want it to stay that way. While you cannot prevent all damage, you can take steps to extend the life of your concrete and minimize future problems. Proper drainage is critical. Make sure water flows away from your concrete, not toward it or under it. Clean gutters and downspouts regularly and consider extending downspouts away from driveways and foundations.

Seal your concrete every few years to protect against moisture, stains, and freeze-thaw damage. Avoid using harsh de-icing chemicals in winter, as they can cause surface scaling. Instead, use sand or kitty litter for traction. Keep your concrete clean by sweeping regularly and washing away spills promptly. And if you notice small cracks or damage starting to develop, address them quickly before they become bigger, more expensive problems.

Why Act Quickly on Concrete Damage

Small concrete problems rarely stay small. A hairline crack lets in water, which freezes and expands in winter, making the crack bigger. A small section of spalling exposes the underlying concrete to more moisture and damage, spreading the deterioration. A minor trip hazard becomes a major liability if someone gets hurt.

The good news is that early repairs are almost always cheaper and easier than waiting. A crack that costs $200 to seal today might require a $2,000 slab replacement if you wait a few years. Addressing problems early saves you money and prevents your concrete from becoming a safety hazard. If you have concrete damage, do not wait. Give us a call for a free inspection and estimate. Check out our full range of services to see how else we can help with your property.