The short answer is no. But we understand it can be concerning when you spot a crack or two on your concrete driveway – especially given how much of an investment it was. You may wonder if the concrete was mixed incorrectly or the base was poorly prepared. Maybe you even wonder if the contractor made a mistake.
These situations aren’t necessarily true. While concrete is durable as a whole, it can also change naturally as it cures. The truth is, cracks can appear in properly installed concrete. The better question is: what does the crack look like, where is it, and what’s the state of the surrounding concrete? Your Michigan concrete contractor can help determine these answers and the corresponding solution.
Why Does Concrete Crack?
Concrete contains water, and as it hardens, that moisture exits the concrete and leads to a bit of shrinkage. The internal stresses that happen as a result can leave a crack. Add in freeze/thaw cycles, and the impact is sometimes inevitable.
Other factors that can cause cracks or movement over time include:
- Soil changes
- Drainage problems
- Tree roots
- Heavy vehicle loads
- Temperature changes
- Settlement or erosion
What Are Those Lines Cut Into Your Driveway?
Those straight lines that divide your driveway into sections are not decorative accents or cracks. Rather, they are intentionally placed by your contractor. They are called control joints and they are planned locations where concrete can crack safely as it shrinks and moves. It actually encourages cracks to occur along a predetermined line, and they’re a vital part of concrete planning and installation.
However, this doesn’t mean cracks can’t occur in other places. An experienced concrete contractor in Metro Detroit knows which cracks are planned and which ones aren’t, and why.
When is a Crack Cause For Concern?
Don’t assume a small crack means you’re dealing with a major structural problem. However, you shouldn’t ignore cracks, especially ones that have undergone changes in a fairly quick period of time.
Call for a professional evaluation if you notice:
- A crack that keeps widening
- One side of a crack that’s noticeably higher than the other
- Multiple cracks showing up in one specific area
- Concrete sinking or settling
- Water that collects around the damaged area
- Crumbling or deterioration along the crack
Instead of thinking of a crack as a singular entity, think of it in relation to what’s going on around it.
The Importance of Proper Installation
Even though cracks can naturally form no matter what, that doesn’t mean proper and professional installation isn’t important. It actually makes a big difference in the way your concrete driveway performs over the years.
A professional will pay close attention to the base beneath the slab, as well as drainage, concrete placement, finishing, and joint location. The expected load needs to be considered as well. For example, a residential driveway doesn’t get the same heavy traffic as a commercial or industrial one.
Quality installation is all about creating concrete that is fully prepared for its environment and intended use. Sometimes cracks happen. It’s the nature of this material, and it’s not always the contractor’s fault.
Should You Repair a Cracked Driveway?
The decision to repair the crack will depend on the size and type of crack as well as the condition of the driveway itself.
Some cracks are mainly cosmetic, while others are caused by settling or deterioration. An older driveway with multiple cracks and uneven sections is a very different story than a newer driveway with one small crack.
Don’t ignore the cracks; just don’t panic every time you see one. Keep an eye on it and reach out for professional inspections if you are concerned. We can take a look and give you peace of mind either way!
Contact Liberty Works Concrete
Are you concerned about cracking, settlement or deterioration in your Michigan driveway? Let us evaluate its condition and determine if it’s harmless, or if repair or replacement is the better solution. Contact us today at (586) 227-7446.
