How to Tell If Your Concrete is Ready for Resurfacing
Concrete is an essential material to our everyday lives. It's used in sidewalks, driveways, and buildings all across the country. But many people don't realize that concrete is most vulnerable to damage when it starts to age. This can lead to unsightly cracks or even broken pieces of concrete.
The question on most homeowners' minds is, "how do I know if my concrete needs resurfacing?" We have the answers you are looking for! Read on for more information about how you can find out if your concrete needs resurfacing.
What is concrete?
Concrete is a mixture of water, gravel, sand, cement, and admixtures. It's made by mixing these ingredients into a paste that contains roughly 90 percent water. The mixture coats the gravel and sand to form a solid, waterproof mass when it sets.
What is concrete resurfacing San Diego?
Concrete resurfacing is the process of applying a new surface to existing concrete. This process can fix cosmetic problems, such as cracks and stains, and strengthen and protect the concrete surface and the structures underneath it.
Why is resurfacing suitable for my concrete?
Concrete resurfacing is better off for a few reasons. First, it will be much stronger and more durable than concrete floors or structures with many chips and cracks. Cracks, chips, and other damage can all compromise the strength of old concrete. Resurfacing takes care of surface-level problems that could be negatively impacting the strength of your existing concrete.
What are the signs if you need concrete resurfacing?
Concrete is rigid, but it does age and will begin to crumble. Like most materials, it will deteriorate over time and show signs of aging. The discoloration is a common one, but other more subtle signs can give away that your concrete needs resurfacing, and you should consider having the process completed soon.
Black or gray surface spots
Black or gray surface spots are the most common problem for concrete deterioration, most often caused by an iron sulfide reaction. They can be very unsightly and will need to be treated with a strong cleaner. The dark discoloration is caused by an iron sulfide reaction when water, oxygen, and sulfate in the concrete mix together. When this reaction occurs, iron sulfide is created.
A light gray or white powdery substance
Lime is the main ingredient in concrete; it can cause problems if it gets into the concrete surfaces. Fine white powder on your concrete driveways, walkways, or patios is a vital sign that you have lime in the top layer. If this occurs, you will need to have the powder removed and treated with a mild acid wash.
Pitting caused by surface erosion
Small holes in your concrete's surface are called pitting. They are caused by either chemical or physical erosion in which fine particles in the cement get washed away over time. This will eventually weaken the concrete and allow water to seep in underneath. Not only does this create an unsightly look, but it's also unsafe and could lead to severe problems.
Cracks indicate age, structural problems, and ongoing deterioration
Cracks in your sidewalk, patios, or driveway are signs of a problem, and you should not wait to get them fixed. It's important to remember that many things can cause cracks; age, structural issues, and ongoing deterioration all play this role. If the cracks begin to widen, it's always best to get them treated right away.
Check for water stains on the concrete
This is often an indication that moisture is getting into your concrete and causing problems. If water stain is present on the surface of your concrete, you will want to have it treated right away. If this moisture is left untreated, it could lead to more severe problems with the concrete.
Check for thin concrete on driveways and your patio
Thin spots in your driveway or patio are also signs of a problem with your concrete that needs to be treated immediately. Thin spots are often caused by damage to the surface, age, or ongoing deterioration. The best way to treat this problem is with concrete resurfacing.
Weeds are growing in between concrete cracks
Suppose you notice grass, weeds, or moss beginning to grow in between the cracks of your concrete driveway or sidewalk. In that case, it is time to do some preventative maintenance. This is one of the most common ways to determine when resurfacing may be needed. The roots can grow under your concrete and create sinkholes that are not visible from the surface. Over time these sinkholes can expand and cause your concrete to crack.
The surface is no longer "sparkling" in appearance
Another indication that resurfacing may be necessary is when the original shine of the concrete has diminished. It may not appear dirty or dusty but instead dull if it has lost its luster. The actual color of the concrete may even appear to be darker than when it was first installed.
Ridges and bumps in the surface of your concrete
When you walk across your driveway or sidewalk and notice areas that seem higher than others, it could be a sign that moisture has risen to specific sections of the concrete. This will cause those sections to lift as they dry. The areas without enough water may appear lower because they are still compact. This is especially important to note if your concrete has already had sealant applied.
For minor concrete issues, you can DIY the resurfacing process. But If you have any questions about these signs or want to know what treatments are best for your concrete, contact a concrete resurfacing San Diego professional. They have the skill and experience to determine which of the above or other issues your home's exterior has and how they can be corrected.
Conclusion
San Diego Concrete resurfacing is essential when it comes to extending the life of your concrete. When the material gets too old and decayed, you will need to have it replaced. While this can be a costly expense, you must know when your concrete needs resurfacing and what the signs are.
It can be expensive but it will make your home look new again! There are many benefits to having resurfaced concrete, including increased curb appeal, better insulation from outside noise/weather conditions, improved safety by reducing falls due to slippery surfaces, and added value to your home.
To learn more about how this process works or if resurfacing is right for you, contact San Diego Stamped Concrete today! We'll be happy to answer any questions and give you a free estimate on pricing over the phone or via email.
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