Understanding the Common Causes of Concrete Damage

Concrete is an extremely durable and versatile material that is used in a variety of construction projects. When you work with a concrete contractor in San Antonio, you can rest assured that your concrete installation will be built to last for many decades to come. Over time, however, you may notice that your concrete driveway or patio starts to show signs of damage. With concrete resurfacing and composite overlays, you can restore your concrete and reverse the damaging effects of time. To highlight the benefits of resurfacing services, here is a look at some of the most common causes of concrete damage.

Steel Corrosion Damage

When a concrete form is poured, it will often be reinforced with durable steel beams. These beams will support much of the weight of the concrete, itself. In the event that the steel beams are exposed to water, they may start to rust and corrode. Corroded steel beams can start to expand as the trust grows, causing subsequent damage to the concrete underneath. Removing the rust from the steel beams is one method of preventing this type of damage.

Harsh Weather Conditions

Another common cause of concrete damage is harsh weather conditions. When concrete is exposed to extreme heat and cold over time, it may begin to start flaking and cracking. Weather damage is particularly prevalent in concrete surfaces that are located outdoors, such as driveways and patios. Concrete sealing is a fantastic method for preventing weather damage to your concrete.

Drying or Plastic Shrinkage

A final cause of concrete damage is shrinkage that is caused by improper drying or curing. In order to make sure that your concrete dries without cracking, your concrete contractor will need to make sure that the moisture to the concrete mixture is at the appropriate blend. If you have noticed that your concrete is showing the telltale signs of damage, you should be sure to contact your concrete contractor right away.