Concrete is a term from Latin that means “compact” or “condensed.” The word is appropriate since concrete can endure much weight. Concrete has been instrumental in creating key infrastructure in today’s society. Although concrete is solid, heavy, and dependable, it isn’t inert.

Concrete is prone to fractures under certain conditions; this blog post will share the main causes of concrete cracks in different infrastructures and amenities. Read on to learn more about concrete.

Understanding Concrete

Concrete is a material that’s used in a vast array of construction projects, from driveways and patios to buildings and bridges. But what exactly is concrete? Concrete is a composite material formed by cement, aggregate (usually sand and gravel), and water, creating a strong and durable material.

Why do Concrete Fractures Happen?

Although its huge strength, poorly managed concrete can stress, chemically react with the soil, and deform, causing cracks and fractures. These cracks can be immediately visible as the concrete dries or can take some time to appear. Let’s dive into the main causes of concrete fractures:

Thermal Shrinkage

Thermal expansion and contraction are common causes of concrete cracks. As concrete heats up or cools down, it expands or contracts slightly. This movement stresses the material, which can eventually lead to cracking, leaving unsightly results on concrete projects.

Deformation

Concrete deformation happens when the material is placed under too much weight, causing it to sink or buckle. Deformation can also occur when the ground underneath the concrete shifts, putting pressure on the material above. Cracked driveways or decorative concrete can suffer this type of concrete damage.

Water Presence

Concrete is a porous material prone to expand when water seeps in. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that concrete is properly sealed and waterproofed. Water presence cracks are a common challenge for engineers with construction projects during the rainy season or in humid environments.

Swelling

Concrete swelling takes place through chemical reactions. The presence of soil sulfates can cause concrete to swell, causing it to expand. Swelling can also happen for various factors, including temperature changes, ground movement, and water presence.

Steel Reinforcement Corrosion

Corrosion of steel reinforcement inside concrete structures is not very common. However, it can happen when the steel reinforcement bars rust inside the concrete. The rusting process expands the metal, forcing the concrete around. Corrosion is a serious problem that can weaken any concrete infrastructure.

Work With Top Dog Construction’s Concrete Services In St. Peters, MO.

Working with professional concrete contractors like Top Dog Constructions in St. Peters, MO, gives your concrete projects a nice and smooth finish. We specialize in functional and decorative concrete additions, increasing your property value and curb appeal. 

If you’re looking for a reliable team of professional concrete contractors, look no further than Top Dog Construction! Our concrete services are ideal for residential and commercial projects, helping you enhance the best features of your property. Get in contact with us to get a free estimate.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!