Aging concrete is a common issue that many homeowners in Northeast Pennsylvania face at some point.
According to the Portland Cement Association, concrete typically lasts only 50 to 100 years. However, the age of many homes in the area far exceeds this number and will begin to show signs of damage before they reach this age.
Homes built on hills, such as Scranton, Pittston, Dallas, and Clarks Summit, are also at greater risk for concrete damage. They are more exposed to stormwater runoff, which can wear away at their foundation, forming cracks and voids underneath.
This guide will help you decide whether to repair or replace your old concrete whether you’ve spotted signs of damage to your foundation, steps, sidewalk, or concrete structure.
Assessing the Damage
Before deciding on the best course of action to repair concrete, it’s essential to understand what type of damage your old concrete has sustained. Even older concrete that is more than 50 or 100 years old can be patched or lifted to extend the longevity of the slab.
Damage can vary significantly, from minor cracks to severe fractures and uneven surfaces. Here are a few common signs to consider:
- Minor Cracks and Chips: Small cracks or surface-level chipping are some of the first signs of concrete damage, but they are usually manageable and may not require removing the concrete entirely. A patch can be often applied to prevent further moisture from penetrating the slab.
- Significant Cracks: Cracks that go deep into the concrete or span a large area may indicate structural issues that require full replacement of the slab. An inspection will be necessary to investigate the best course of action.
- Uneven Surfaces: Concrete may become uneven due to soil settling around it or voids that form underneath the slab. Uneven concrete surfaces can usually be evened with a polyurethane lifting foam or resurfaced by sanding down the slab.
Once you understand the level of damage, you’ll be better equipped to decide if the concrete can be repaired, repurposed, or removed.
When Can Concrete Be Patched?
Over-the-counter DIY concrete repair kits are very popular options among consumers who want to avoid that massive repair bill to replace or repair their concrete slab. Concrete patches should only be applied to small cracks and when the slab is not crumbling. If there is evidence of deeper cracks or crumbling around the slab, a replacement may be necessary.
Concrete patches can last up to a decade or more, depending on environmental factors.
Can You Repair Old Concrete with Concrete Lifting?
One of the most common calls we receive at our business is from customers with old concrete slabs that have become uneven or jagged. While sidewalks are the most common example, sloping foundations and concrete structures are also very common among home and business owners.
While many residents mistakenly believe the slab must be replaced, it can very often be repaired with concrete lifting services. Concrete lifting works by injecting a self-expanding polyurethane foam underneath the slab to fill vids formed by settling and soil compaction. This foam supports and levels the slab for anywhere from 25 years or longer and is moisture-resistant.
Word of Caution: Avoid mudjacking whenever possible, as mudjacking only lasts between 3-5 years and requires lots of heavy materials that can disturb underground utilities.
Is Grinding and Resurfacing a Long-Lasting Option?
In some instances, old concrete can be repaired using a self-leveling kit or by grinding down the uneven surface. However, this is only a short-term aesthetic solution, as it will not address the primary cause of the slope, such as void formation underneath the slab.
Tips to Recycle or Repurpose the Old Concrete
If you require the full replacement of old concrete, many creative ways exist to recycle these materials and even improve your landscaping.
- Road Base and Gravel: Crushed concrete makes an excellent base material for roads, driveways, and pathways. Use this for your driveway or a walkway in your yard through a garden.
- Landscaping Material: Recycled concrete can be used in gardens as decorative rock walls that also prevent animals from stealing your plants!
- Create Garden Stepping Stones: Large, intact pieces of concrete can be repurposed as garden stepping stones or paving slabs for a rustic, eco-friendly look.
- Fill Material: Concrete aggregate can serve as fill material for construction, helping to reduce the need for raw materials. Find a local waste management company that recycles concrete. Some may even pay you a small fee for any crushed or recycled concrete you provide them.
Additionally, if you must remove your old concrete, consider contacting a junk removal company or renting a dumpster to dispose of the material.
When to Hire a Professional for Concrete Repair and Replacement
In some cases, the damage to your concrete may be too extensive to handle on your own, or you may need more equipment. Depending on the type of damage listed above, contact a local contractor to see your best option for repair or replacement.
For concrete lifting of uneven surfaces in Northeast Pennsylvania, contact the experts at EnergySmart. We use the highest-quality materials guaranteed to provide a long-lasting solution for all your concrete woes.
FAQs
Can I repair cracked concrete myself?
Yes, small cracks and surface imperfections can usually be repaired with DIY patching products. However, deep or extensive cracks may need professional intervention.
Is concrete recycling expensive?
Concrete recycling is often cheaper than disposing of it in a landfill. Some recycling centers charge a small fee, while others may even pay for large quantities of concrete.
What’s the best way to dispose of large amounts of concrete?
For large amounts, renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal service is usually the easiest way. Local recycling centers may also accept concrete if you can transport it.
