Concrete is a strong and durable material used in the construction industry. However, concrete cracks are common and can result in significant damage if left unattended. Identifying and understanding the types of concrete cracks can help prevent further damage and keep structures safe. With the help of Stabil Solutions in the blog post, we will take a closer look at the different types of concrete cracks.
Types of Concrete Cracks
Types of Concrete Cracks
Plastic Shrinkage Cracks
Hot and windy weather conditions can lead to plastic shrinkage cracks in concrete. These types of cracks occur when the concrete is still in the plastic state but begins to dry too quickly, resulting in small, parallel cracks. To avoid plastic shrinkage cracks, cure the concrete properly and avoid pouring concrete in hot and windy weather.
Settlement Cracks
Settlement cracks are common in new buildings or structures where the concrete is still settling in. They appear in a stair-step pattern and occur when the concrete is experiencing uneven settling or shifting. Proper soil compaction and structural design can help prevent uneven settling in newly constructed buildings.
Drying Shrinkage Cracks
Drying shrinkage cracks occur as the concrete dries and shrinks. They appear as straight lines or intersecting cracks and are usually a result of poor concrete mix design or environmental factors. Using high-quality concrete and proper curing methods can help prevent drying shrinkage cracks.
Overload Cracks
Overload cracks occur when a structure is exposed to too much weight or pressure, placing excessive stress on the concrete and causing diagonal cracks to form. These cracks are a severe safety concern and should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage.
Now that you have a better understanding of the types of concrete cracks, it's important to address any signs of cracking immediately. Here at Stabil Solutions, we offer concrete repair and stabilization services in Chestertown, MD, that can prevent future damage and keep your structures safe. Schedule an assessment.