5 Signs Your Concrete Needs Repair (And When to Replace It)
Learn when to repair minor concrete cracks and when full replacement is the smarter, safer choice for long-term durability.
CONCRETE REPAIR
How to Tell When It’s Time to Call a Concrete Expert in Colorado Springs, CO
Concrete is known for being one of the most durable building materials out there—but even the toughest driveways, patios, and sidewalks can break down over time. In Colorado Springs, Colorado, where we see extreme freeze-thaw cycles, intense sun, and shifting soils, concrete damage is a common issue.
The good news? Not all damage means you need a full replacement. In many cases, a simple repair can add years of life to your concrete surfaces.
Here are 5 clear signs your concrete needs attention, plus tips on when to repair it and when it’s time to replace.
1. 🚨 Cracks Are Growing or Spreading
What to look for:
Hairline cracks that have widened over time
Branching cracks or cracks forming a “spiderweb” pattern
Cracks along expansion joints or edges
What it means:
Concrete will naturally crack as it cures, but active cracking is a red flag. It may be due to poor installation, freeze-thaw cycles, ground movement, or drainage problems.
Repair or Replace?
✅ Small, shallow cracks = repair
❌ Wide, deep, or spreading cracks = may require section replacement
2. 🔻 The Surface Is Uneven or Sinking
What to look for:
Sunken slabs or "dips" in your driveway or walkway
One side of a crack is higher than the other
Tripping hazards or pooling water
What it means:
This often points to soil settlement or erosion beneath the slab—common in Colorado Springs' clay-heavy soils and sloped properties. If not fixed, uneven concrete can become unsafe and lead to worse structural issues.
Repair or Replace?
✅ Minor sinking can often be leveled or lifted
❌ Severe or widespread settlement may require replacement with proper base prep
3. ❄️ Surface Is Flaking, Chipping, or Pitting
What to look for:
Top layer of concrete is breaking off
Small holes or "pits" on the surface
What it means:
This is called spalling or scaling and is often caused by moisture and freeze-thaw cycles. It's especially common when de-icing salts are used or when concrete wasn’t sealed properly.
Repair or Replace?
✅ Surface-level issues can usually be resurfaced or patched
❌ Deep or widespread spalling may require full slab replacement
4. 🧱 Edges Are Breaking Apart
What to look for:
Broken corners of a driveway or patio
Chips along the sides of sidewalks or steps
Exposed aggregate along broken edges
What it means:
Edge damage is often caused by water runoff, impact damage, or a lack of proper joint placement. It may also be a sign that your slab is under stress.
Repair or Replace?
✅ Small edge chips can be patched and sealed
❌ Broken-off or unstable sections may need partial replacement
5. 🌧️ Drainage Problems Are Getting Worse
What to look for:
Water pooling on or around your concrete
Runoff pooling at foundation walls
Water following cracks or sunken areas
What it means:
Poor slope or sunken areas can lead to water pooling, which makes cracks, settling, and spalling worse over time. In Colorado Springs, where winter melt refreezes quickly, this can also lead to serious slip hazards.
Repair or Replace?
✅ Minor grading issues may be corrected with leveling or overlays
❌ Major pooling usually requires regrading and slab replacement
🛠️ Repair vs. Replace: How to Decide
Here’s a quick summary:
Still unsure? The best way to know for sure is to schedule a free on-site inspection. We’ll take a look, explain your options, and give you honest advice—no pressure, no gimmicks.
💬 What Colorado Springs Customers Say
“We thought we’d need a full patio replacement, but [Business Name] patched the cracks and resurfaced it. Saved us thousands!”
– Brian T., Red Hawk
“They gave us a straight answer—no upsell. Our walkway just needed a leveling fix, and they did it the same week.”
– Danielle M., Crystal Valley
📞 Need Concrete Repair in Colorado Springs?
If your driveway, patio, or sidewalk is showing signs of wear, don’t wait. Early repair can save you from costly replacements later.
👉 Call us now or request a free concrete repair estimate online. We’ll inspect the issue, explain your options, and give you a clear path forward.
