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Concrete Pop Outs & Cracking FAQs
Welcome to our Concrete Pop-Outs & Cracking FAQ page, where we address common questions and provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about any pop-outs (aka rock-pops) or cracking in your concrete.
General
What causes concrete pop-outs (aka rock-pops)?
The culprits for this are typically porous, moisture-susceptible aggregates within the mix, freeze-thaw cycles, chemical exposure, or mechanical forces. If the aggregates become saturated by water, which can freeze or react with chemicals, they can expand with great force eventually leading to a pop-out.
Even with quality control in aggregate supply, problem aggregates are almost impossible to avoid. With extra care in installation, finishing, curing, and sealing, these can all contribute to preventing moisture from reaching these aggregates.
What causes cracking in concrete?
Concrete can crack due to several factors, including shrinkage during curing, thermal expansion and contraction, excessive load, improper preparation of the sub base, inadequate joint placement, and environmental conditions.
We do our best to make sure our customers avoid cracking by adding control joints into the concrete flatwork. The purpose for this is to manipulate the cracking to occur inside of the control joints so that they are less visible to the naked eye.
What are control joints and how do they help?
Control joints are planned cracks or grooves made in concrete slabs to control where the concrete cracks as it shrinks during curing and drying. These joints help to manage cracking in a structured manner, preventing random cracking across the surface.
Maintenance
How does weather affect concrete cracking?
Extreme temperatures, freeze-thaw cycles, and moisture can all contribute to concrete cracking. Expansion joints and proper sealing can help mitigate these effects by allowing the concrete to move without cracking.
How can I regularly maintain my concrete to prevent cracking?
Regular maintenance includes keeping the surface clean from debris and stains, resealing the concrete periodically, and ensuring water drains away from the concrete to prevent pooling and erosion.
If at all possible, avoid heavy loads and extreme temperatures.
How does weather affect concrete cracking?
Extreme temperatures, freeze-thaw cycles, and moisture can all contribute to concrete cracking. Expansion joints and proper sealing can help mitigate these effects by allowing the concrete to move without cracking.
Read More: Winter Maintenance: Tips for Caring for Your Concrete in the Cold
How do you prevent pop-outs in concrete?
While it’s challenging to prevent all pop-outs, using non-reactive aggregates, ensuring a proper concrete mix, applying quality control during the concrete laying process, and sealing the concrete can significantly reduce the risk of pop-outs.
Routine maintenance includes keeping the surface clean, removing standing water, resealing the concrete periodically, and avoiding the use of chemicals that can exacerbate freeze-thaw damage.
Repairs
How are small cracks in concrete repaired?
Small cracks can often be filled with a concrete repair caulk or a vinyl concrete patching compound.
What should be done for larger cracks in concrete?
Larger cracks may require a more extensive repair process, including cleaning out the crack, possibly widening it for better filler adhesion, and then filling it with a repair material suitable for the size and location of the crack.
How do you fix pop-outs in concrete?
To repair a pop-out, first clean the area thoroughly, remove any loose debris, and dampen the cavity. Then, fill it with a suitable concrete repair material, compacting it well and smoothing it to match the surrounding surface.
Is it necessary to replace concrete if there are multiple cracks?
Replacement might be necessary if the concrete has extensive, deep cracking, significant structural issues, or if the surface is uneven and poses a safety risk. A professional assessment can help determine the best course of action.
What are the risks of improperly repaired concrete cracks?
Improperly repaired cracks may fail to bond effectively, leading to the reappearance of the crack. Inadequate repairs can also allow water intrusion, potentially causing further damage to the concrete or underlying reinforcement.
Should I seal over a repaired concrete crack or pop-out?
Sealing over the repaired area can help protect the repair from moisture and environmental elements, potentially extending its lifespan. Use a sealant compatible with both the concrete and the repair material.