Concrete Repair & Replacement
Fix damaged concrete or replace failing slabs with professional repair services that restore safety and appearance.
When to Repair vs When to Replace
Not every crack means you need to tear out your entire driveway or patio. The decision between repair and replacement depends on the extent of damage, the age of the concrete, and whether underlying problems exist. Understanding these factors helps you make cost-effective choices that address the real issues instead of wasting money on temporary fixes.
Minor surface cracks, small chips, and isolated spalling can often be repaired without replacing the entire slab. These repairs involve cleaning out damaged areas, applying bonding agents, and filling with repair compounds that match your existing concrete. The repairs blend in and restore structural integrity when done correctly. You get more years of service from your concrete at a fraction of replacement cost.
Signs You Need Replacement
- Multiple large cracks spreading across the surface
- Sections that have settled more than two inches
- Crumbling edges and corners that keep breaking off
- Standing water that does not drain properly
- Concrete installed without proper base preparation
- Age-related deterioration affecting the entire slab
Replacement makes sense when repairs would cost nearly as much as starting fresh, or when the concrete has widespread damage that repair cannot fix. New concrete gives you a clean slate with proper base preparation, updated thickness specs, and modern finishing options. You also get warranty coverage and decades of trouble-free use. We help you understand which approach fits your situation and budget, and we provide professional concrete solutions in Westland, MI for both scenarios.
Common Repair Services We Provide
Crack repair stops water from seeping into the base material and causing further damage. We route out cracks to create a clean channel, then fill them with flexible sealants or epoxy compounds depending on crack width and location. This prevents the crack from spreading and keeps moisture out. Surface sealers applied after repair protect against future deterioration.
Spalling happens when the concrete surface breaks apart and exposes aggregate underneath. This occurs from freeze-thaw cycles, poor finishing, or deicing salt damage. We remove loose material, prepare the surface with bonding agents, and apply fresh concrete overlay or repair mortar. The patch blends with surrounding concrete and provides a smooth, durable surface.
Additional Repair Options
Trip hazards from uneven concrete sections create liability issues and safety concerns. We use concrete leveling techniques to raise sunken slabs back to proper height. This eliminates the height difference between sections without replacement. Joint repair addresses deteriorated control joints and expansion gaps. We clean out old material and install new joint fillers that accommodate movement while keeping water out.
Corner breaks are another common problem where sections of concrete break away at edges or corners. We rebuild these areas using forms to match the original shape, then pour and finish new concrete that bonds to the existing slab. Color matching helps the repair blend in. These targeted repairs extend the life of your concrete while addressing specific damage points. Our work in concrete leveling and surface repairs prevents small problems from becoming major expenses.
The Replacement Process Explained
Complete replacement starts with removing the old concrete. We break up the existing slab, haul away debris, and excavate to proper depth. This clean slate approach lets us fix drainage issues, improve the base material, and install the correct thickness for your application. Removal typically takes one day for residential projects.
Base preparation determines how well your new concrete performs. We grade the subsoil for proper drainage slope, add compacted gravel in layers, and ensure the entire area sits at the correct elevation. This foundation prevents settling and cracking. We also install forms that create clean edges and hold the concrete at the right height during pouring.
Pouring and Finishing
The concrete pour happens in sections for larger areas. We place steel reinforcement or wire mesh before pouring to add tensile strength. Fresh concrete gets screeded level, floated smooth, and finished with your chosen texture. Control joints cut into the surface direct cracking to predetermined lines where it stays hidden. Proper curing over several days allows the concrete to reach full strength.
Most replacement projects finish within three to five days from start to cleanup. You can walk on the new concrete after 24 hours and drive on it within a week. Replacement costs more upfront than repairs, but you get a brand new surface designed to last 30 years or more. We handle all aspects of the process so you get quality results without the hassle. For complete renovations, check out our driveway replacement services for more details on what to expect.