Concrete Repair & Replacement

Do Not Let Small Problems Become Big Expenses

You have noticed that crack in your driveway getting wider. Or maybe your patio has a sunken section that collects water. Perhaps your walkway has become uneven and is now a tripping hazard. These problems do not fix themselves. They get worse over time and eventually require complete replacement if you wait too long.

We specialize in concrete repair and replacement throughout Fond du Lac. Our approach is simple: we honestly assess your concrete and tell you whether repair or replacement makes more sense. Sometimes a targeted repair extends the life of your concrete for years. Other times, replacement is the smarter investment. We explain your options and help you make the right decision for your situation and budget.

Waiting on concrete problems costs you more in the long run. Small cracks let water underneath, which causes more damage during freeze-thaw cycles. Uneven surfaces get worse as the ground continues to shift. Surface deterioration spreads to surrounding areas. The sooner you address concrete issues, the more options you have and the less you will spend.

Common Concrete Problems We Fix

We see the same concrete problems repeatedly in Fond du Lac homes. Here are the most common issues and what causes them:

• Cracks: Hairline cracks are normal in concrete. Wider cracks that let water through are problems. Cracks happen from settling, freeze-thaw cycles, tree roots, or inadequate reinforcement during installation. We can fill and seal minor cracks or replace sections with major cracking.
• Settling and sinking: When the ground underneath concrete compresses or washes away, the concrete settles. This creates uneven surfaces and trip hazards. Sometimes we can lift settled concrete with mudjacking or polyurethane injection. Other times, replacement is necessary.
• Spalling and surface deterioration: This is when the surface starts flaking, pitting, or breaking apart. It often results from poor finishing, deicing chemicals, or water damage. Minor spalling can be repaired with resurfacing. Extensive deterioration requires replacement.
• Drainage problems: Concrete that slopes toward your house or pools water causes bigger issues over time. Water near your foundation leads to basement problems. We can sometimes correct minor drainage issues by adding slope or creating drainage channels. Major problems need full replacement with proper grading.
• Separation from adjoining surfaces: When your driveway separates from the garage slab or your walkway pulls away from steps, it creates gaps that trap water and debris. We can repair these separations or replace sections that have moved significantly.
• Root damage: Tree roots growing under concrete push it up and crack it. Fixing this problem often requires removing the roots, which means working with your landscaping. We handle both the root removal and concrete repair.

When to Repair and When to Replace

This is the question everyone asks. The answer depends on several factors. Here is how we evaluate your concrete:

Extent of damage: If damage affects less than 25 percent of the surface, repair usually makes sense. If more than half your concrete has problems, replacement typically costs less than trying to patch everything.

Age of concrete: Concrete lasts 25 to 30 years on average. If your concrete is already 20 years old with multiple problems, replacement gives you decades more life. Repairing old concrete just delays the inevitable.

Underlying causes: If problems stem from poor base preparation, inadequate drainage, or structural issues, repairs might not last. These situations often need replacement with proper corrections to the underlying problems.

Appearance concerns: Repairs are visible. Patched areas rarely match the original concrete perfectly. If appearance matters for your property, replacement might be worth the extra cost for a uniform look.

Budget and timeline: Repairs cost less upfront but might need replacement sooner. Replacement costs more initially but lasts longer. We help you balance immediate budget constraints with long-term value.

Concrete Repair Methods We Use

Different problems need different repair approaches. Here are the methods we use for repairable concrete issues:

Crack filling and sealing: We clean out cracks and fill them with flexible sealants or epoxy, depending on the crack size and location. This prevents water infiltration and stops cracks from spreading. It works well for cracks less than a quarter inch wide.

Concrete resurfacing: For surface deterioration without structural problems, we can apply a new layer of concrete or specialized overlay material. This creates a fresh surface and can last many years if the base concrete is still solid.

Mudjacking or slabjacking: This process pumps a slurry mixture under sunken concrete to lift it back to level. It works for sidewalks, driveways, and patios that have settled but are otherwise in good condition. It costs less than replacement and can be done quickly.

Polyurethane foam injection: Similar to mudjacking but uses expanding polyurethane foam. It is lighter, sets faster, and lasts longer. Good for situations where heavy slurry could cause more settling.

Partial replacement: Sometimes we remove and replace just the damaged sections rather than the entire slab. We cut out bad concrete, prepare the area properly, and pour new concrete that ties into the existing surface. This works when damage is localized.

Our Concrete Replacement Process

When replacement is the right answer, we handle every step of the process. Here is what you can expect:

We start by removing the old concrete. We dispose of it properly and make sure the area is completely clear. Then we evaluate the base material and drainage. If these were causes of the original failure, we correct them before pouring new concrete.

We prepare the base with proper grading and compacted gravel. We ensure drainage slopes away from your home. We install appropriate reinforcement for your specific situation. Then we pour, finish, and cure the new concrete properly.

The new concrete will last decades when installed correctly. We use the right mix for Wisconsin weather, proper thickness for your use, and quality finishing techniques. We do not repeat the mistakes that caused the original problems.

Need other concrete work done at the same time? We handle all types of concrete patios, slabs, and foundations. We can coordinate multiple projects to save you time and money.

Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Repair and Replacement