The local team from Cincinnati Premier Pressure Washing has brought concrete maintenance and pressure cleaning services to the area for over a decade. Read on as these hands-on professionals reveal some of the best concrete crack prevention techniques on the books. These simple yet effective crack-prevention tips can keep concrete surfaces in excellent shape for many years.
Understanding the Science Behind Cracked Concrete
Typically, concrete comprises the following:
- 10% cement
- 20% water and air
- 30% sand
- 40% gravel
Since gravel and sand account for roughly 70% of this mixture, it’s economical. Plus, the sand-gravel combination is stronger and more cost-effective than straight cement.
Robust, durable, and weather-resistant concrete doesn’t happen by accident—it’s a direct result of proper curing. This scientific process is simply a hardening, which occurs immediately after the concrete application and finishing. However, getting this curing right entails specific temperatures and moisture conditions for a prolonged period, and it needs a professional.
Common Reasons for Concrete Cracking in Ohio
The first step to preventing surface cracks is to understand why it happens. Common causes of concrete cracking include the following:
- Shrinkage. When a concrete surface loses moisture too quickly, it shrinks and develops fine cracks.
- External loads. Even though concrete is a robust material, it still has weight limits. It might crack under an extremely heavy load.
- Thermal expansion. High temperatures weaken the bonds within the concrete as it expands. Eventually, it cracks. Freezing weather and excess moisture also force cracks in concrete.
- Improper construction. Failure to follow industry guidelines in mixing and applying concrete, such as pouring it over unsuitable ground, quickly leads to cracking.
- Ground movement. The lifting and settling of the ground, such as during freeze and thaw cycles, can crack concrete.
Signs of Concrete Damage Not To Ignore
Before thinking about crack prevention tips, it helps to recognize the signs of damage, such as:
- Visible structural cracks
- Uneven concrete surfaces
- Pooling of water after a rainfall
Repairing the issue quickly could save the concrete from serious cracks.
Top Tips to Avoid Cracks on Concrete Surfaces
These easy-to-follow strategies for crack prevention can help keep concrete surfaces in excellent condition for decades:
- Proper mixing and curing. A proper water-to-cement ratio prevents shrinkage. It’s also important to give the concrete enough time to cure–a month or more is ideal.
- Control joints. Experts create weak spots in the concrete where cracks can occur safely to save the more critical areas of the slab from damage.
- Adequate subgrade preparation. Proper preparation ensures even weight distribution, enhancing the concrete’s structural integrity.
- Use of reinforcements. Installing steel bars or mesh under the concrete can significantly enhance the strength of the concrete slab.
- Regular sealing. Sealants prevent moisture from seeping into the porous concrete and causing cracks during freeze-thaw cycles.
More About Pressure Washing That’s Concrete-Safe
Implementing these crack prevention tips, among other crack-resistant methods, gives concrete surfaces a boost. For more about professional pressure cleaning with proven techniques for crack-free surfaces, contact Cincinnati Premier Pressure Washing at 513-827-1079.
