There are a number of common reasons why concrete cracks. There is also a number of suggested alternatives for Crack Repair in Cambridge MA that can help fix the problem when it occurs. One of the common causes of cracks on concrete is rapid dehydration. This is where the concrete slab dries too quickly. Ideally, the drying process should take a number of weeks, and requires water throughout the process. One common solution here is water curing. This is where the concrete is flooded or mist sprayed. The water cure should ideally take 7 days for the best result. Other common causes include excessive water added to the concrete mix and natural wall movements.
The best advice anyone can give you regarding crack repair is to avoid any do-it-yourself remedies. One commonly used option in this case is adding caulk to the cracks. The problem with this approach is that it is temporary at best. The integrity of the caulk is easily compromised by efflorescence build up in the crack. It also doesn’t resolve water permeation problems which are largely responsible for causing the cracks in the first place.
Contraction joints, also called control joints are important in fixing and preventing future cracks. These are intentional areas of weakness where the cracks will occur along. The shrinkage that occurs during the drying process and temperature fluctuations all cause cracks, so control joints are necessary as they accommodate the anticipated movements of the concrete. The depth of the control joints should be a quarter of the slab’s thickness. The spacing ideally should be between 24 and 36 times the thickness of the slab and no more.
Finally, polyurethane polymer is an option that is utilized by industry experts such as Drycrete Waterproofing among others for the simple reason that it works. This performs much like a caulk sealant but because it is urethane-based, it is infinitely more effective. It is also perfect on dry and wet concrete surfaces and does not let water in. A small dry well or French drain is also installed in the basement to safely guide the water out. In this case therefore, any water permeation problems are resolved and a permanent solution to your cracks is used. An industry expert would be able to explain more about polyurethane polymer and offer further advice on the best crack repair solution for your specific needs.