Concrete is one of the most widely used materials in the world for obvious reasons. It is not only strong and long-lasting, but also highly versatile which makes it useful for constructing various things.
Though concrete is durable, it is not immune to wear and tear and over time, weather, chemicals, water, and other factors can damage it. There are a few warning signs that indicate you need an emergency concrete repair in Toronto and ignoring them may lead to serious problems. We will discuss those signs in brief in the lines below.
Cracks
Cracks in concrete are one of the most obvious signs of damage. They can form due to shrinkage during curing, soil movement, heavy loads, or temperature fluctuations.
While hairline cracks are shallow and caused by minor settling, large cracks may indicate structural issues. These may appear due to overloading, major settlement, or seismic activity. If you don’t fix it early, water can seep through the cracks and cause more damage.
Spalling
Spalling happens when the surface of the concrete peels away in thin layers. It is often caused by reinforcement corrosion, where the steel inside rusts and pushes outward.
However, it can also result from freeze-thaw cycles, where trapped water expands when frozen and breaks the surface. If you leave it unaddressed for too long, it can grow worse with time.
Settlement or Sinking
If your concrete appears uneven or sloped in areas, it may be settling improperly. This may happen due to poor soil preparation, when it fails to hold up the concrete over time.
Another reason could be water erosion that washes away supporting soil from beneath the concrete slab, causing it to sink. This not only looks bad but can also become a tripping hazard.
Concrete may look tough and unbreakable, but even it has its weak spots. If you notice any of these signs on the surface, don’t ignore them and contact a professional service to fix them. With regular inspections and timely repairs, you can maintain your concrete surfaces better and make them more durable than they already are.
