Concrete Repair: Everything You Need to Know to Keep Your Surfaces Safe and Strong

Concrete Repair: Everything You Need to Know to Keep Your Surfaces Safe and Strong

Concrete is one of the most durable and widely used materials in construction—especially here in sunny Scottsdale. It’s found in driveways, patios, sidewalks, pool decks, and foundations. But like anything exposed to weather, wear, and time, concrete can develop issues that need to be addressed before they get worse. That’s where concrete repair comes into play.

At Scottsdale Concrete and Paver Contractors, we’ve seen it all—from hairline cracks to major surface spalling. In this post, we’ll guide you through what causes concrete damage, the most common types of repairs, when to DIY and when to call a pro, and how to prevent future problems. Whether you're a homeowner, property manager, or business owner, this is the ultimate guide to keeping your concrete in tip-top shape.

What Causes Concrete Damage?

Concrete is strong, but it isn’t indestructible. Here are some of the most common reasons why your concrete might need repair:

1. Weather Changes – Extreme heat, cold, and moisture fluctuations can cause concrete to expand and contract, leading to cracking over time.

2. Poor Installation – If the concrete wasn’t mixed properly or wasn’t allowed to cure correctly, it could weaken prematurely.

3. Heavy Loads – Excessive weight, especially on driveways or commercial surfaces, can cause stress fractures.

4. Soil Movement – Arizona’s desert soil can shift, especially after rain or drought, undermining your concrete base.

5. Aging – Over decades, even the best concrete can degrade due to environmental exposure.

Knowing the root cause of the damage is key to choosing the right repair method—and preventing it from happening again.

Common Types of Concrete Damage

Let’s break down some of the most common types of damage that homeowners and property owners might encounter:

1. Cracks

These can range from fine hairline cracks to deep fractures. Small cracks are often just cosmetic, but larger ones can indicate foundational shifts or water intrusion problems.

2. Spalling

This is when the surface of the concrete flakes off, exposing the aggregate beneath. It’s usually due to freeze-thaw cycles or poor finishing.

3. Settling or Sunken Areas

If your sidewalk or driveway is uneven or appears to be sinking, it’s often because of soil erosion or poor sub-base compaction.

4. Scaling

This is the peeling or chipping of the surface layer due to deicing chemicals, freeze-thaw cycles, or poor finishing.

5. Discoloration

While not structurally damaging, discoloration can be an eyesore and is often caused by poor mixing, curing, or contamination.

Concrete Repair Options

Not every crack means you need to replace an entire slab. Here are some tried-and-true methods for fixing damaged concrete:

Crack Filling and Sealing

For minor cracks, this is often the simplest and most cost-effective option. Specialized sealants or epoxy injections can prevent moisture from seeping in and causing further damage.

Concrete Resurfacing

If the surface of your concrete is worn or spalled but structurally sound, resurfacing is a great way to give it a fresh look. This involves applying a thin overlay of new concrete or polymer mix.

Slab Jacking (Mudjacking or Foam Lifting)

If your concrete has sunken in areas, slab jacking can raise it back to level without replacing it. This is done by injecting a material underneath to lift the slab.

Patching

Small holes or localized damage can be patched using a concrete repair mix. The key is good preparation—cleaning and bonding the patch correctly.

Full Replacement

In cases of major structural damage or severe cracking, it may be more economical in the long run to replace the concrete entirely.

DIY or Call a Pro?

While small cracks can often be sealed with a store-bought kit, larger or structural repairs are best left to professionals. Here’s a quick guide:

DIY:

• Hairline surface cracks

• Minor discoloration

• Very small patches (less than 1 sq. ft.)

Call a Pro:

• Deep cracks or wide separation

• Uneven or sunken slabs

• Rebar exposure or foundation issues

• Any structural concern

At Scottsdale Concrete and Paver Contractors, we use professional-grade materials and equipment to ensure repairs last—because we know that a "quick fix" that fails in six months is no fix at all.

How to Prevent Future Concrete Issues

Good maintenance goes a long way. Here’s how you can extend the life of your concrete:

• Seal it regularly – Use a high-quality concrete sealer every 2–3 years to protect from moisture and staining.

• Keep it clean – Dirt, oil, and debris can speed up degradation. A simple pressure wash once or twice a year can make a big difference.

• Avoid harsh chemicals – Especially deicers in winter. They can break down concrete over time.

• Watch for drainage issues – Water pooling around concrete surfaces can lead to cracking and erosion.

• Address small problems early – Fixing a small crack now is always cheaper and easier than dealing with a large repair later.

Final Thoughts

Concrete repair doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With the right knowledge and the right team on your side, your concrete surfaces can look great and stay strong for decades.

If you notice any signs of damage on your patio, driveway, or walkway, don’t wait—contact Scottsdale Concrete and Paver Contractors for a free assessment. We’ll help you find the best solution for your home or business and ensure the job is done right the first time.

Need expert help with your concrete repair? Give us a call today or request a free quote online. We're here to help Scottsdale stay solid—one surface at a time.