Imagine you’re going outside from your home in st george utah, like every day and you notice that the long, jagged crack in your concrete floor. Nothing hurts more than losing your property shiny looks and when you see yours property damaged concrete it is painful. With the passage of time and having a bad weather concrete gets damaged considerably, leading to some deep cracks, exposed aggregate concrete, stains, and spalling concrete.
Click here to repair your concrete.
There are several reasons for cracked concrete but generally most of them are not a threat to your concrete structure and you are not in trouble at all, but when the cracks are getting bigger I will let you know about that.
As a concrete contractor in st george utah I will share some of my knowledge on why those crack occurs and what to do about them.
Why does Concrete Crack in St. George quickly?
Before diving into the solutions for repairing your concrete and looking for concrete contractors in utah it is essential to understand the reasons behind cracks occurring in concrete. Reason for cracks in St. George, UT are several which contributes to that:
1. Extreme Temperature Swings in Utah
St. George experiences high summer temperatures, often exceeding 100°F. Concrete expands in extreme heat and contracts when temperatures drop at night. Over time, this cycle causes stress, leading to cracks.
2. Soil Settling
When your concrete work is done and after that the soil beneath the concrete structure softens or it’s saturated, the load of concrete can cause the soil to settle and if the process occurs unevenly cracks occurs in the concrete.
3. Poor Workmanship or Materials
Poor workmanship or the use of inferior materials can greatly diminish the strength and longevity of concrete, making it more prone to cracking. Errors such as incorrect mixing ratios, insufficient compaction, inadequate finishing techniques, or the use of contaminated or low-quality aggregates can all compromise the concrete’s integrity.
4. Overloading
Cracks resulting from structural loads or overloading occur when concrete is exposed to forces that exceed its designed capacity. This situation may arise from incorrect structural calculations, design errors, or changes in the intended use of a structure over time. For example, introducing heavier machinery or increasing foot or vehicle traffic beyond the original specifications can surpass load limits. Overloading creates stress concentrations in specific areas, leading to bending, shear, or compression cracks.
5. Too Much Water in the Mix
Incorporating too much water into the concrete mix is a frequent error, particularly in field conditions, as it facilitates easier pouring and finishing. However, this practice undermines the strength and durability of the final product. An excessive water content raises the water-cement ratio, weakening the bond between the cement and aggregates. As the surplus water evaporates during the curing process, it creates pores and voids within the concrete, leading to shrinkage and surface cracking.
As you can see, many things can cause your concrete to crack, but generally speaking, these cracks are normal. If you’re concerned about your concrete’s structural integrity, a concrete company can give you advice regarding the best way to proceed.
Avoid Cracks By Hiring Professionals For Concrete Installation
The process of mixing and pouring concrete is a specialized skill. While it may be tempting to tackle it as a DIY endeavor, having professional expertise is crucial for achieving a high-quality outcome.
Concrete that is mixed incorrectly is not only more susceptible to damage and wear over time but may also have a significantly reduced lifespan. This is where the value of hiring a skilled concrete contractor becomes evident. What advantages do professionals bring to your project?
Thorough planning
Experienced contractors understand how much concrete is needed, the necessary equipment, and the appropriate timeline for the project.
Accurate mixing
Professionals are knowledgeable about the correct ratios to use during mixing, ensuring that your concrete remains durable throughout its lifespan.
Proper installation
Attention to detail is critical in concrete installation, and only professionals possess the expertise to ensure the job is executed correctly.
Advanced equipment
The machinery required for mixing and installing concrete can be costly to buy or rent. By hiring professionals, you not only gain access to this equipment but also benefit from their expertise in using it effectively.
Time savings
Concrete work can be unexpectedly complex, especially for those lacking experience. Collaborating with professionals helps you avoid errors and allows you to focus on your personal time.
In summary, partnering with professionals helps you sidestep the stress of attempting a complex, time-consuming, and potentially costly concrete project on your own. While it is feasible to mix and pour your own concrete, it may not be the best choice for the success of your project.