Concrete Repair & Replacement

When to Repair vs. When to Replace

Not all concrete problems require a complete replacement. Sometimes a simple repair is all you need to extend the life of your driveway, patio, or walkway. Other times, replacement is the better option. So how do you know which one you need?

If your concrete has minor surface cracks, small chips, or a few small areas of damage, repair is usually the way to go. We can fill cracks, patch spalled areas, and resurface worn sections to make your concrete look better and last longer. Repairs cost less than replacement and can be done in a day or two.

However, if your concrete is severely cracked, badly uneven, or sinking in multiple places, replacement is usually the smarter choice. Trying to patch heavily damaged concrete is like putting a bandaid on a broken bone. It might look better temporarily, but the underlying problems will come back.

When we come out for a free estimate, we will assess your concrete honestly and tell you whether repair or replacement makes more sense for your situation. We do not push unnecessary work. Our goal is to give you the best solution for your budget and your needs. We have been helping homeowners in Fairfield, OH with concrete repairs and replacements since 2024.

Types of Concrete Repairs We Handle

We handle all types of concrete repair work, from small fixes to major restoration projects. Here are some of the most common repairs we do:

• •Crack repair: We clean out cracks, fill them with specialized repair materials, and seal them to prevent water intrusion and further damage.
• •Spalling repair: When the surface of concrete flakes or chips off, we remove the loose material and patch it with fresh concrete or repair mortar.
• •Slab leveling: If sections of your driveway or walkway have sunk, we can lift them back to the proper level using specialized techniques.
• •Resurfacing: For concrete that is worn, stained, or ugly but structurally sound, we can apply a thin overlay to give it a fresh new look.
• •Joint sealing: Expansion joints and control joints need to be sealed to keep water and debris out. We clean and reseal joints to protect your concrete.
• •Partial replacement: If only one section of your driveway or patio is damaged, we can cut out and replace just that section instead of the entire slab.

No matter what type of repair you need, we use quality materials and proven techniques to make sure the repair lasts. We also match the color and texture of your existing concrete as closely as possible so the repair blends in.

What to Expect with Concrete Replacement

If replacement is the best option, we make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here is how it works.

First, we remove your old concrete. We break it up with jackhammers, load it into trucks, and haul it away. We make sure to protect your landscaping and clean up thoroughly when we are done. Next, we prepare the base just like a new installation. We excavate if needed, compact the subgrade, and add a fresh gravel base.

Then we pour your new driveway, patio, or walkway using the same high-quality process we use for all our work. We add proper reinforcement, finish the surface to your specifications, and cut control joints to manage cracking. After the concrete cures, you have a brand new surface that will last for decades.

Most residential replacement projects take 3 to 5 days from start to finish. We give you a clear timeline upfront so you know what to expect. When you work with FCD Fairfield Concrete, you get professionals who show up on time, work efficiently, and clean up after themselves.

How to Prevent Future Concrete Damage

Once we repair or replace your concrete, you want it to last as long as possible. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect your investment and prevent future damage.

First, seal your concrete. A quality sealer protects against moisture, stains, and freeze-thaw damage. Reseal every 2 to 3 years for best results. Second, keep drainage in mind. Make sure water runs off your concrete instead of pooling on it. If you notice water collecting in low spots, we can fix the drainage before it causes bigger problems.

Third, avoid deicing salts in winter. Salt can damage concrete and cause surface scaling. Use sand or kitty litter for traction instead. Fourth, fix small cracks early before they turn into big cracks. A little preventive maintenance goes a long way.

Finally, be careful with heavy loads. Parking large trucks or equipment in the same spot repeatedly can cause stress cracks. If you need a stronger surface for heavy equipment, let us know and we can design your concrete accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Repair