Key takeaways
- Concrete shrinks as it cures, so some cracks are normal
- Settling and heaving cause wider and uneven cracks
- Joints control where cracks happen
- Wide, stepped or growing cracks need a closer look
A hairline crack does not mean something is wrong.
Normal cracks
As concrete cures, it loses water and shrinks. Control joints give those cracks a planned path. Hairline cracks that stay tight are usually cosmetic.
Cracks that mean more
Wide cracks, cracks where one side is higher than the other and cracks that keep growing can point to settling, heaving or poor drainage.
What you can do
Seal small cracks to keep water out and watch them. For larger ones, find the cause first, then choose a repair or leveling.
When to call
If a slab is sinking, tilting toward the house or getting a trip hazard, get it looked at.
Related
Questions about your own project? Call or text 720-295-9670, or use the estimate form below.