![]() ![]() These cracks - no matter what the width - are rarely acceptable. In general, cracks wider than a credit card and running through the depth of the concrete are structural in nature and could be a sign of more serious problems (see Concrete Crack Repair Evaluation). Even the American Concrete Institute has no standards or recommendations that give a "yes" or "no" answer as to what cracks need repair based on width and other factors. The answer may also change with the person’s perspective: What is acceptable to the contractor, engineer, or architect may not be acceptable to the owner, who must live with the crack day after day. It can vary from one project to the next. The hairline cracks in this floor were air brushed with brown dye to achieve a beautiful crackle pattern.Īt what width does a crack in concrete become a problem? That question often arises, but unfortunately there is no definite answer. Not all cracks in concrete are serious enough to require repair. Structural cracks wider than a credit card, or that run through the entire slab require repair or replacement of the concrete.Settlement cracks happen when the ground beneath the slab wasn't compacted properly and part of the concrete sinks.Shrinkage cracks occur while the concrete is curing and can be reduced or prevented with proper joint placement.Hairline cracks at the surface should be repaired if they are widening with time, are a hazard, collect dirt or are unsightly.Here's an overview of crack types and what to do about them. Some cracks are more concerning than others. Understand what you contractor is doing about each of the above listed items and you will get a good concrete job. In other areas 6"of base fill is required along with steel rebar installed in the slab. Some flatwork can be poured right on native grade. The sub grade must be prepared according to your soil conditions. The ground upon which the concrete will be placed must be compacted. So 4"concrete should have joints 8-12' apart. The joints should be of the depth of the slab and no more than 2-3 times (in feet) of the thickness of the concrete (in inches). ![]() Reason #4 - Lack of control jointsĬontrol joints help concrete crack where you want it to. Verify what strength the concrete you are pouring should be poured at.Ĭonsult with the Ready Mix Concrete Association in your area. Reason #3 - Improper strength concrete poured on the jobĬoncrete is available in many different strengths. ![]() Read here about the methods to cure concrete and understand how your contractor will cure the concrete. ![]()
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