Concrete Repair Saves Cities Money

Municipal Concrete Repair

Concrete repair can save cities and towns money, as compared to completely replacing damaged concrete surfaces and structures. And saving money is always positive, especially when your city or town is trying to stick to its budget and stay on track.

Common Causes of Municipal Concrete Damage

Sidewalks and public parks are paved with concrete because it’s economical and it’s one of the most durable building materials available. It can be installed affordably and it lasts for decades.

However, every building material has its weaknesses and tendencies towards damage. Concrete can crumble, crack or sink, due to two main problems:

Settling

Before concrete is poured, the subgrade is supposed to be packed down firmly so no air pockets are left. Even the most technologically advanced tools can’t completely eradicate all the air in the soil. As time goes along, this air escapes and the ground slowly gives way in small increments. With this support gone, concrete can crack and begin to sink.

Frost Heaves

When moisture beneath the concrete freezes, the ground expands and pushes up on the slab. Eventually, the pressure can cause the slab to crack and the surfaces may be pushed apart, raised or sunken as a result.

What Areas Need Repair?

The first step toward repairing the damage is making a comprehensive list of the areas that need professional repair.

Some common ones are:

  • Sidewalks
  • Parking lots
  • Steps
  • Architectural fixtures
  • Parks
  • Sports courts

It’s important to keep your city’s public areas in good repair for aesthetic purposes, but also for safety. If your paved surfaces fall into disrepair and someone is injured as a result, the liability costs could far exceed the costs of both repair and replacement.

Also, think about how much it would cost to rip out the existing concrete and replace it. (Hint: it would be quite expensive.)

What Are Your Options?

Even though some may tell you otherwise, completely replacing these areas is not your only option. Many concrete repair techniques can restore surfaces to their previous level, smooth appearance.

Slabjacking involves drilling inconspicuous holes into sunken surfaces, injecting a stabilizing grout, and raising them to their previous level. Once this is completed, the cracks are filled and you can’t even tell there was ever a problem.

Professional concrete repair service also involves removing tree roots and stabilizing any soil erosion that is causing the damage. Treating the underlying cause will help prevent future repair expenses, and cutting costs is always a benefit.

Hire a Professional Repair Team

Get in touch with Lift-Up Concrete to learn more about how concrete repair is the most affordable, effective option when you need to restore your city or town’s parks, sidewalks and public areas.