Concrete Repair & Restoration

When to Repair vs When to Replace

Not all damaged concrete needs to be completely replaced. Many issues can be fixed with targeted repairs that restore function and appearance at a fraction of replacement cost. The key is knowing which problems are repairable and which ones mean you need to start over.

Surface cracks, minor spalling, and cosmetic damage are usually repairable. Structural cracks, severe settlement, and widespread deterioration often require replacement. We evaluate your concrete honestly and recommend the most cost-effective solution. Sometimes spending a bit more to replace now saves you from repeatedly patching a surface that's fundamentally failing.

Common Concrete Problems We Fix

Cracks

Hairline cracks are common and usually not structural concerns. We can fill them to prevent water infiltration and stop them from growing. Wider cracks may indicate settlement or structural issues. We assess the cause before recommending a repair method. Options include routing and sealing, epoxy injection, or in severe cases, replacement of the affected section.

Spalling and Surface Damage

Spalling is when the concrete surface flakes or chips away, exposing aggregate below. This happens from freeze-thaw cycles (less common in Carson), deicing salts, or poor finishing. We remove the damaged surface, prepare the substrate, and apply repair material that bonds permanently to the existing concrete.

Sunken or Uneven Slabs

When sections of your driveway, walkway, or patio sink and create trip hazards, we can often level them without complete replacement. Techniques like mudjacking or polyurethane foam injection lift the slab back to its original position. For driveways showing serious settlement issues, consider our driveway replacement services for a permanent solution.

Deteriorated Expansion Joints

Old expansion joint material deteriorates and needs replacement. We clean out failed joint material and install new joint filler that properly allows for expansion and contraction. This prevents water infiltration and protects slab edges from damage.

Our Repair Methods

• Crack sealing: Clean and seal cracks to prevent water infiltration and stop crack growth.
• Epoxy injection: For structural cracks, we inject high-strength epoxy that bonds the concrete back together.
• Surface resurfacing: Apply a new concrete overlay that covers minor surface damage and refreshes appearance.
• Partial depth repair: Remove damaged surface concrete and replace with repair material matched to existing.
• Full depth repair: Cut out and replace entire sections where damage goes through the full slab thickness.
• Slab leveling: Lift sunken sections back to grade using mudjacking or foam injection techniques.
• Joint repair: Replace failed expansion joints and seal control joints to protect from water damage.

Concrete Restoration Options

Sometimes your concrete is structurally sound but looks tired and worn. Restoration can dramatically improve appearance without the cost and disruption of complete replacement. Options include grinding and polishing to expose aggregate, applying decorative coatings or stains, or resurfacing with a thin overlay.

For patios and walkways where appearance matters, restoration can give you a like-new look at a fraction of replacement cost. We can even add color and texture to match existing stamped or decorative concrete if you're repairing just part of a larger surface.

How We Assess Your Concrete

We start every repair project with a thorough assessment. What's causing the damage? Is it still getting worse or has it stabilized? Can we repair it or does it need replacement? We look at the whole picture, not just the visible symptoms.

We check for settlement, drainage issues, structural cracks, and other underlying problems. Sometimes what looks like a simple surface issue is actually a symptom of foundation settlement or soil movement. If we find those kinds of problems, we'll recommend addressing the root cause, not just patching over it. Our goal is a repair that actually lasts, not a temporary fix that fails in a year.

After our assessment, we provide a detailed written estimate explaining what needs to be done and why. We give you options when they exist so you can make an informed decision based on your budget and goals. Ready to fix your damaged concrete? Contact GoldGate Carson Concrete Masters for a free repair assessment and honest recommendations.

Repair Questions