Repair or Replace: Making the Right Choice for Your Concrete in New Haven

Assessing the Damage

Your first step is to determine how much damage was done to your concrete. The following will show you the types of damage and whether or not you can repair them.

Minor Concrete Damage (usually repairable):

• Hairline cracks
• Small chips/flakes
• Slight discoloration
• Minor settling

Major Concrete Damage (may require replacement):

• Large/deep cracks
• Extensive crumbling/spalling
• Significant uneven/heaving
• Widespread staining/discoloration

Factors to Consider

Age of the Concrete

A typical concrete lifespan is 20-30 years, based on the installation and maintenance provided to the concrete. If your concrete is near the end of its expected lifespan, replacing it with new concrete could be the more cost-effective option in the long run.

Underlying Problems

Surface damage can also be an indication of deeper problems. In New Haven, the freeze-thaw cycle creates conditions where subsurface erosion occurs. Therefore, even if repairs are made to the surface, underlying problems may still exist, requiring further action.

Aesthetic Value

Even though repairs can correct the functionality of your concrete, it is possible that the repairs will not restore your concrete to its original condition. If the aesthetic value of your concrete is important (i.e., a front walkway/patio), then replacing it with new concrete would create a uniform appearance.

Cost of Repairs vs. Replacement

Typically, repairs are less costly than replacing a structure, but repeated repairs to the same damaged area may make replacement a more cost-effective option over the course of time.

Common Repair Techniques

If you decide to repair your damaged concrete, the following are some of the repair techniques used by New Haven Concrete Company:

Crack Injection

For very small cracks, we can fill them with epoxy or polyurethane to seal and strengthen the damaged area of the concrete.

Resurfacing

We apply a thin layer of concrete over the entire surface of the existing concrete to cover up the damaged areas and improve the overall surface of the concrete.

Patching

In cases where a small section of the concrete is damaged, we remove the damaged area and replace it with new concrete.

Mudjacking

This technique allows us to lift and level sunken concrete slabs caused by the poor soil conditions in New Haven.

When to Replace

Replacement is usually the most effective option when:

• The concrete is old and has many issues.
• Repair costs are close to 50% or more of replacement costs.
• There are severe structural/safety concerns.
• You wish to significantly alter the look/function of the area.

Professional Evaluation

Although the above criteria can give you a general idea of whether to repair or replace your damaged concrete, there is no substitute for a professional evaluation of your concrete. At New Haven Concrete Company, we offer complimentary evaluations of your concrete to identify the type(s) of repairs needed and/or recommend replacement based on your specific circumstances.

Conclusion

As with all major investments in your home, spending money on quality concrete work now will save you time, money, and headaches later. Regardless if you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, New Haven Concrete Company is ready to assist you to ensure your concrete surfaces are both safe and attractive.

Are you unsure whether to repair or replace your damaged concrete? Contact New Haven Concrete Company today to schedule a complimentary evaluation of your property and receive expert guidance on which solution is best suited for your property’s unique needs.