Concrete Repair & Replacement
Fix it now or replace it later at twice the cost.
Cracks in your driveway, uneven sidewalk sections, or a crumbling patio do not fix themselves. Small problems turn into big ones when water gets in, freezes, and expands. What starts as a hairline crack can become a major replacement job if you wait too long.
We help homeowners in Huntington, WV decide whether repair or replacement makes more sense for their situation. Sometimes a simple repair adds years of life to your concrete. Other times, replacement is the smarter long-term investment. We give you honest assessments and show you both options so you can make the right choice for your property and budget.
When Repair Makes Sense
Not every damaged concrete surface needs complete replacement. If your concrete is still structurally sound with minor cosmetic issues, repair is usually the most cost-effective option. Here are situations where repair works well:
- Small cracks less than a quarter inch wide
- Minor surface spalling or scaling
- Small areas of damage surrounded by good concrete
- Joints that need resealing
- Surface discoloration or staining
- Minor settlement that can be lifted and leveled
We use professional-grade repair materials that bond to existing concrete and flex with temperature changes. For small cracks, we clean them out, apply bonding agents, and fill them with flexible sealants or epoxy. For surface damage, we can apply overlay systems that restore appearance and add years of life.
When Replacement Is the Better Choice
Some concrete damage goes beyond what repairs can fix. When the underlying structure is compromised, patching the surface only delays the inevitable. Here is when we typically recommend replacement:
Structural Issues
If your concrete driveway or patio has sunk more than an inch, developed wide cracks throughout, or shows signs of serious settlement, repair will not solve the problem. The base has failed, and surface fixes will not restore structural integrity. Replacement lets us address the root cause by rebuilding the base properly.
Extensive Damage
When more than 25% to 30% of your concrete surface needs repair, replacement often costs less than patching everything separately. Multiple repairs also create a patchwork appearance that never looks quite right. A complete replacement gives you a uniform, attractive surface that lasts another 20 to 30 years.
Poor Original Installation
If the original concrete was installed without proper base preparation, adequate thickness, or reinforcement, repairs will not prevent ongoing problems. Sometimes the best solution is removing the old concrete and doing it right this time.
Repair Methods We Use
We match the repair method to your specific situation. For crack repair, we use flexible sealants that move with the concrete or structural epoxies for cracks that need extra strength. For surface damage, we can apply bonded overlays, resurfacing systems, or decorative coatings that hide damage while protecting the concrete underneath.
If sections have settled, we may be able to use mudjacking or polyurethane foam injection to lift them back to the proper level. This costs far less than removing and replacing concrete, and it works well when the concrete itself is still in good shape.
For partial replacement, we saw cut around damaged areas, remove only what needs replacing, and pour new concrete that ties into the existing surface. We match the finish and color as closely as possible to minimize the appearance of the patch.
Why Concrete Fails in Huntington
Most concrete damage in our area comes from water infiltration and freeze-thaw cycles. Water seeps into small cracks, freezes and expands in winter, then thaws in spring. This cycle slowly breaks concrete apart from the inside. Poor drainage makes it worse by keeping concrete wet.
When we do repairs or replacements, we address drainage issues at the same time. There is no point in fixing damaged concrete if the same water problem will just damage it again. We make sure water flows away from your concrete surfaces so your repair work in Huntington actually lasts.
Not Sure If You Need Repair or Replacement?
We offer free evaluations where we look at your concrete, explain what is causing the damage, and give you honest recommendations. No pressure, just straight answers about your options.