Why does concrete crack?

When installed correctly and with quality materials, concrete should last for decades. In fact, its primary purpose is to be a highly durable, strong and long-lasting material that’s suitable for a variety of industrial, commercial and domestic building purposes.

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But there are instances in which it can crack and cause issues. Let’s take a closer look at what causes this.

What causes concrete to crack?

There are various reasons why concrete Gloucester can crack. For example:

1. The cracking has occurred as part of the pour and happens naturally as it cures and dries. Find out more about what a good concrete pour looks like from www.monstermixconcrete.co.uk/.

2. The concrete formulation has been incorrectly blended and cracks have formed as a result of poor materials or workmanship in the mixing process

3. The concrete slab has been placed under excessive pressure and has cracked as a result of weight or force.

4. Hairline cracks can form if the concrete settles before it cures. These can actually become quite serious over time, causing a more extreme crack in freezing weather, for example.

5. Soil movement underneath concrete slabs can affect the concrete itself, by settling or by being manually affected – for example, by pipe works.

6. Root ingress is a common problem with concrete slabs as they can force concrete to crack over time. This is the case particularly with invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed or bamboo and it can be the case with trees as well.

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7. Frost and freeze cycles can cause concrete damage over time, as water enters concrete cracks and then freezes and expands.

   8. Design flaws can result in cracked concrete if the overall structure is unsound and unbalanced.

   9. Poor workmanship is a very obvious cause of cracking concrete too!

   What to do if concrete cracks?

   In many instances, it will probably need replacing, although sometimes remedial work can be done to fill cracks and strengthen the underlying slab. It’s worth contacting a professional firm for an expert assessment and opinion before commissioning any kind of remedial work.