{"id":1478,"date":"2021-11-18T19:40:26","date_gmt":"2021-11-18T19:40:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/whatblueprint.com\/?p=1478"},"modified":"2023-04-14T10:15:27","modified_gmt":"2023-04-14T10:15:27","slug":"how-long-should-concrete-last-before-cracking","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/whatblueprint.com\/how-long-should-concrete-last-before-cracking\/","title":{"rendered":"How Long Should Concrete Last Before Cracking?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
The most commonly used material in construction is concrete. It’s cheap, easy to make, and durable enough for years of use. However, concrete can crack when it undergoes temperature changes or other forces that affect its shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The average lifespan of concrete is 50 years before it starts showing signs of deterioration. Concrete exposed to severe conditions, like extremes of temperature or frozen ground water will have a shorter lifespan than slabs installed in more ideal locations.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Many factors contribute to how long concrete lasts, such as water, air content, weather conditions, and more. This article looks at how long concrete lasts before cracking and the factors that can reduce its lifespan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s essential to consider the average lifespan of concrete when deciding on the best location for installation. Several factors contribute towards this and the most important ones include the following.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The materials used in the concrete are significant when determining what factors affect how long it will last. The longevity of concrete can vary significantly based on what materials and the quality of the materials it contains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Concrete is a very porous substance and needs to breathe to avoid deterioration. The more porous the concrete, the less likely it is to crack. Exposure to the sun and strong winds can cause problems as it expands and contracts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The amount of foot traffic in an area can play a role in how long concrete lasts before cracking. More use can lead to faster deterioration and potential damages. If you notice cracks in your driveway or sidewalk, contact a professional for help with repairs immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chemicals that permeate the concrete can speed up how quickly it degrades. It is important to keep concrete clean and limit exposure to chemicals, salts, de-icing agents, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How well concrete is mixed and poured can play into how long it lasts. A poor mixture increases the chances of cracks developing sooner rather than later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When concrete is too wet, it tends to crack more frequently. If the water content increases, the concrete will not have a long lifespan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Excess moisture can cause deterioration, cracking, and even mold growth. The ideal amount of moisture in the concrete is about 7%. If this number drops much below or rises much above this, it can be dangerous for the slab. To prevent future cracking problems, make sure your foundation slopes away from the house at least 6 inches every 10 feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is possible to repair concrete, but it is much better to take the necessary precautions to ensure that it will last for as long as possible. When preserving concrete, it is imperative to take several steps. We have highlighted these below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When exposed to the sun, concrete begins to expand and contract at different rates. This can lead to fractures forming in the slab. Although not always possible, keeping the sun off of the concrete is the best way to prevent this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another way to keep concrete from cracking is by using waterproofing sealants. These sealants will help to prevent water from eroding the concrete. Use an acid-based sealant on all new concrete surfaces to protect against corrosion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is important to keep concrete clean and free of debris, chemicals, etc. If these substances remain on the concrete, they can speed up how quickly it degrades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another way to keep concrete safe and intact is by using a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier will prevent the concrete from drying out too much, which can cause cracks to develop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Concrete surrounded by other substances like dirt and water will be less likely to crack because there is less exposure to the elements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The thickness of the concrete you use is significant. Using a concrete slab that is too thin can lead to the concrete deteriorating over time becoming brittle and prone to cracking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As far as repairing damaged concrete is concerned, there are a few steps that you can take. First, the concrete needs a thorough cleaning of any debris or chemicals that are on it. Next, new concrete should be applied. For substantial cracks, steel rebar needs to be placed on the inside of the gap and then filled with new concrete.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is best to use a mixture of coarse and fine aggregates when mixing concrete. Using sand for your coarse aggregate is best because it will give you the most rigid and strong concrete.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Many homeowners use concrete that contains both fiberglass mesh and rebar. However, if the concrete isn\u2019t reinforced, it can crack over time due to expanding and contracting under traffic pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Layering concrete in your yard can help to prevent damage. The first layer of concrete should be a smooth strength. After this, layer over the first layer with a rough-strength concrete. Cover both layers with a 1-inch aggregate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Adding a color hardener can also help to strengthen concrete. Color hardener contains pigments that will make the concrete tougher and more resistant to cracking.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Factors Determine How Long Concrete Lasts?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The materials used in concrete<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Weather conditions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Amount of traffic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Exposure to chemicals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How well the concrete was mixed and poured<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Water content in concrete is vital<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Too much moisture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How Do I Keep Concrete From Cracking?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Avoiding Direct Sunlight<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Using Waterproofing Sealants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Keep concrete clean<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Using a dehumidifier<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Keeping concrete insulated<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Do not use concrete that is too thin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Repairing concrete that is already cracked or damaged<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Use a mixture of coarse and fine aggregates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Reinforce concrete with rebar or fiberglass mesh<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Layering concrete in your yard<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Using color hardeners to strengthen concrete<\/h3>\n\n\n\n