How much does concrete repair cost compared to replacement?

Concrete repair typically costs 30 to 50 percent of full replacement. Small crack repairs might run a few hundred dollars, while resurfacing costs about half the price of new concrete. Slab jacking to lift sunken sections usually costs less than tearing out and replacing the same area. However, extensive damage often makes replacement more cost-effective in the long run.

How long does repaired concrete last?

Properly repaired concrete can last 10 to 20 years or more, depending on the repair method and the extent of original damage. Crack repairs and resurfacing perform well when the underlying structure remains solid. Lifted slabs can last as long as the surrounding concrete if we address the cause of settling. Replacement concrete lasts 30 to 50 years with good maintenance.

Can you match the color and texture of my existing concrete?

Yes, we can match most existing concrete in color and texture. For repairs, we use tinted sealants and mortars that blend with your concrete. During resurfacing, we can color the overlay to match perfectly. New concrete is trickier because fresh concrete looks different than aged concrete, but we use techniques like acid staining or integral color to get close matches.

Concrete Repair & Replacement

Fix damaged concrete or replace it completely to restore safety, functionality, and curb appeal to your Richmond property.

Professional concrete repair and replacement work in Richmond

When to Repair or Replace Your Concrete

Cracked, sunken, or damaged concrete is more than an eyesore. It creates tripping hazards, reduces your property value, and gets worse over time. The good news is you have options. Some damage can be repaired quickly and affordably. Other situations call for complete replacement to ensure long-term results.

Small cracks under a quarter inch wide often qualify for repair. We fill these with specialized sealants that prevent water infiltration and stop the cracks from spreading. Surface damage like spalling or scaling can be resurfaced with fresh concrete overlays. These repairs work well when the underlying structure remains sound.

You need replacement when concrete has major structural problems. Large cracks over half an inch, extensive settling, or areas that have broken into multiple pieces cannot be reliably repaired. Replacement also makes sense when you want to change the layout, add decorative finishes, or upgrade to thicker concrete for heavy use.

Signs You Need Concrete Repair or Replacement

Visible cracks that widen during seasonal temperature changes
Sunken or uneven sections that create drainage problems or trip hazards
Surface flaking, pitting, or concrete that crumbles when touched
Water pooling on concrete that should drain properly
Discoloration, staining, or exposed aggregate from surface wear

Professional Repair Techniques That Work

Crack repair starts with cleaning and preparing the damaged area. We remove loose material, widen narrow cracks slightly to create a proper bond, and thoroughly clean the surface. Then we apply flexible sealants or repair mortars designed for concrete. These materials expand and contract with temperature changes to prevent new cracks from forming.

For sunken concrete, we often use slab jacking or foam lifting. This process involves drilling small holes and pumping material underneath to raise the concrete back to its original level. It costs less than replacement and takes only a few hours. Once lifted, we seal the joints and surface to prevent future settling.

Surface damage gets fixed with resurfacing techniques. We apply a thin layer of fresh concrete or specialized overlay material that bonds to the existing surface. This gives you a smooth, uniform finish that looks brand new. We can add color or texture during resurfacing to match your existing concrete or create an upgraded appearance.

When replacement is necessary, we remove the damaged concrete, prepare the base properly, and pour fresh concrete using modern techniques. We take this opportunity to improve drainage, add reinforcement, and ensure proper thickness for your specific use. Quality concrete work in Richmond means doing the job right so you won't face the same problems again.

What to Expect During Concrete Replacement

Concrete replacement begins with careful removal of the old material. We use equipment sized for your project to break up and haul away damaged concrete. We protect your landscaping and adjacent structures during demolition. Most residential projects generate less mess than you might expect.

After removal, we examine the base materials. If soil has settled or washed away, we add new gravel base and compact it properly. This step prevents future settling that causes new damage. We also address any drainage issues that contributed to the original problem. Proper base preparation is critical for long-lasting results.

We install forms to define the shape and edges of your new concrete. For driveways and high-traffic areas, we add wire mesh or rebar reinforcement. Then we pour fresh concrete, level it carefully, and finish the surface to your specifications. Smooth finishes work for garage floors. Broom finishes add traction for outdoor areas.

Your new concrete needs time to cure properly. We apply curing compounds and protect the surface during this period. You can typically walk on new concrete after 24 hours, but wait at least seven days before driving on it. After 28 days, your concrete reaches full strength and is ready for decades of service. We also offer new concrete driveway installation if you're upgrading your entire surface.

Common Questions About Concrete Repair

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