Concrete is a common building material found in most homes and commercial structures. Its durability makes it especially appealing for homes in 55+ communities, whose residents appreciate its ease of maintenance.
However, it’s not indestructible — sometimes, concrete cracks due to temperature changes, improper installation, heavy impacts, or shifting soil. While some cracking is normal, in other situations, it can be concerning.
At Leisure Villas, we want the members of our community to understand how to take care of their homes and keep them in excellent condition for years to come, which is why we’re presenting this guide to concrete cracks. Keep reading to learn why concrete cracks, how to identify the different types of cracks, and what you should do about them.
Why Does Concrete Crack?
First, let’s answer the all-important question: Why does concrete crack?
There are several reasons why your concrete may develop cracks, and identifying the cause of the damage is key to understanding how to address it. These possible causes include:
Shrinkage During Curing
After it’s poured, concrete must go through a curing process in which it solidifies and hardens. During this process, the water in the mixture evaporates, causing the concrete to shrink. This shrinkage often leads to small surface cracks.
Temperature Changes
Another common cause of concrete cracking is temperature changes caused by weather fluctuations. When the temperature drops, the water in the concrete’s pores expands as it freezes, putting stress on the material. When the temperature rises, the ice melts, causing the concrete to contract once more. Because of this, seasonal cracking is common in colder or more variable climates.
Soil Movement and Settlement
The ground beneath the concrete can naturally shift over time, leading to cracks. This is especially common in new developments with recently-disturbed soil or after heavy rain/drought cycles that affect the ground’s moisture content.
Improper Installation or Mix
Sometimes, cracking occurs as the result of poor workmanship or subpar materials. Less common in professionally developed communities, it’s more likely to occur with DIY projects completed by amateurs.
Heavy Loads or Impact
Although concrete is strong and durable, especially heavy loads or impacts can lead to cracks. This can come in the form of overloading driveways with large vehicles or dropping objects on patios or steps.
Types of Concrete Cracks
There are three main types of concrete cracks:
- Hairline cracks are usually cosmetic. They’re common in new pours and not typically a concern.
- Structural cracks are wider and/or deeper than a quarter of an inch. These are the ones to watch out for — they may indicate a need for professional assessment or repair.
- Surface cracking, also known as crazing or scaling, resembles a web of tiny cracks on the top layer of the concrete that may occur as it dries. It’s more of an aesthetic concern, but worth keeping an eye on.
What You Can Do About Concrete Cracks
If you notice a crack in your patio, driveway, or steps, it’s a good idea to take a picture of it so you can track any changes over time. Clean the debris from the cracks to prevent them from widening, and consider using a DIY crack sealer to seal off smaller cracks.
If the crack is structural, creates a tripping hazard, or experiences water infiltration, it’s time to call a professional. Sometimes, the community developer or HOA may handle these issues, so make sure you reach out to them first.
To prevent cracks, avoid de-icing salts known to cause surface damage. If possible, direct water runoff away from concrete slabs. Don’t park heavy vehicles in areas that aren’t meant to bear heavy loads.
How Leisure Villas Manages Concrete Integrity
At Leisure Villas, our number one priority is maintaining safety, accessibility, and aesthetics for our residents. As part of this commitment, we prioritize professional installation during community development and take quality control seriously.
We only work with the best contractors to ensure durable homes that will stand the test of time, which includes all concrete surfaces. Our team does everything they can to prevent concrete cracks from forming during the initial curing process and will be there for you if cracks appear later on.
If you’re considering moving to a 55+ community, contact Leisure Villas today to explore our ongoing projects and learn more about how we can help to make your golden years truly golden.