Repair vs. Replacement: A Guide to NYC Concrete Sidewalks
Cracked, sunken, or otherwise damaged concrete sidewalks need your immediate attention. It is because the damage to the surface might not be terrible at first but could get worse over time.
By fixing the problem right away, you can avoid accidents on the sidewalk and abide by city regulations. In addition, you can make your property a place where everyone feels safe.
But how can you fix these damages and is repairing a wise choice or a complete replacement?
Which Types of Concrete Damages Are Repairable?
Repairing sidewalks is a cost-efficient way to increase their lifespan, but it can only be done if the damages are minor and not compromising structural integrity.
Some common damages that can be fixed through repairs include:
Hairline Cracks
Hairline cracks appear on the surface due to the shrinking of concrete during the curing process. Other reasons include temperature changes, soil settling, and minor structural movement.
These cracks are less than 0.3 millimeters wide but can grow over time and weaken the structure.
Minor Slab Raise
Uneven slabs pose a significant trip hazard and need to be fixed as soon as possible. Efficiently addressing these issues requires determining the extent of damage. An unevenness of less than one quarter of an inch can be repaired using the concrete grinding method.
However, a difference higher than that requires a complete slab replacement.
Spalling and Scaling
Spalling and scaling in concrete means the surface is flaking or chipping. It can happen because of de-icing salts, extensive heat, and water evaporation. Determining the severity of spalling and scaling is essential to fixing the damages.
Repairs can be implemented if the spalling is one-third of the concrete's depth. However, it is best to replace the sidewalk for more profound damage completely.
Which Types of Concrete Damages Are Replaceable?
For extensively damaged sidewalks, repair might not be effective, and complete replacement might become essential. Some common damages that cannot be repaired and require complete replacement include:
Extensive Cracking
Soil erosion, freeze-thaw cycles, tree roots, improper soil compaction, and the absence of expansion joints are all common reasons why cracks appear on concrete. If the cracks are extensive, it could be a sign of compromised structural integrity.
In case of a crack wider than ½ inches, it is important to get professional concrete replacement services. Experts determine the extent of the damage and offer the optimal solution for durable and precise outcomes.
Potholes
Potholes in concrete can appear due to moisture. This water can freeze during winters and expand, leading to extensive damage. Other than this, poor drainage, improper maintenance of concrete, and use of substandard materials all contribute to pothole formulation.
Patching the potholes is a DOT violation, and they must be fixed by completely replacing and reinstalling the sidewalk.
Sunken Slabs
Soil erosion beneath the concrete can cause the slabs to sink. Erosion happens because of water accumulation, poor drainage, and burrowing pests. These slabs can be fixed using multiple methods, like slab jacking, polyurethane foam, and complete replacement.
Completely replacing the surface is the most efficient way, allowing you to compact the soil properly before pouring the new concrete.
Water Damage
Cracking, pitting, water pooling, and discoloration are common signs of water damage on concrete surfaces. The reasons include drainage issues, freeze-thaw cycles, plumbing issues, etc.
Repairing water damage is never a long-term solution, as water usually affects soil compaction and the integrity of the concrete. So, replacing such a surface for durable and long-term results is the most efficient choice.
Tree Root Invasion
Roots of trees installed near sidewalks can grow underground and push against concrete. They can cause the concrete to crack and heave, making the surface uneven and dangerous for pedestrians.
The best way to fix the tree root issue is to get help from NYC Parks. They prune the shallow roots, which allows you to replace the cracked sidewalks.
Pro tip: Integrate root barriers while installing the trees, which will help you avoid future damage.
Conclusion
Before deciding to repair or replace your concrete, it is essential to closely examine the problem area, the damage level, and the surface's general condition.
Minor damages like hairline cracks, less than ¼ inch slab raise, and spalling issues are repairable. However, extensive problems like deep cracks, potholes, sunken slabs, tree root invasion, or water damage require complete replacement.
For expert advice and the most effective approach, consult a skilled sidewalk contractor and get the damages fixed under a defined budget.