Concrete is one of the most durable and resilient materials out there. But that doesn’t mean it’s not without its own set of challenges.
Over time, with enough wear, tear, and impact, you may notice cracks in your floors. This can happen in both your home and place of business.
Before you think about ripping up the entire floor and starting over, keep reading. This article will offer solutions for cracked floors so you can give your flooring a facelift and create a clean, safe environment.
Common Solutions for Cracked Floors
- 1. Level It Off
If you’re faced with uneven concrete slabs, you can apply a leveling agent. This coating will not only fill in any cracks but will also leave your floor looking like new!
Self-leveling concrete is the best option and creates a smooth, seamless foundation for whatever future plans you have. You can install tile, carpet, or an epoxy coating directly over the concrete. - 2. Resurfacing
Similar to using self-leveling concrete, resurfacing the floor is another option. Resurfacing allows you to address specific cracks, chips, or imperfections without a complete renovation or remodel.
Concrete resurfacing is most popular for sidewalks and walkways outside your home or business. Walkways endure a lot of foot traffic. The last thing you want is for someone to trip or get injured thanks to a crack or imperfection on the surface.
There are also countless gorgeous colors and finishes available. - 3. Polishing
Concrete polishing works wonders for both the appearance of your floor and for repairing and preventing cracks.
Polishing your floor can help fill in and mask abrasions, cracks, and other imperfections.
Not only is concrete polishing gorgeous, but it adds value to your home when it comes time to sell. Polished concrete floors are clean, smooth, and less likely to crack in the future.
Common Causes of Cracked Floors
Now that you know how to properly repair a cracked floor, let’s discuss what might be causing the issue in the first place. This might help you prevent cracks from occurring.
Shrinking
Shrinkage cracks in your flooring are completely normal and primarily a cosmetic issue.
Most cracks and imperfections in concrete flooring are unavoidable. Polishing your concrete or applying an epoxy coating can cut down on visible signs of wear and tear and protect your floor from damage.
Over time, the moisture inside your concrete floor evaporates causing the slab to shrink. This shrinkage weakens the concrete and leaves it more susceptible to cracks.
The good news is, most concrete cracks are thin. They also appear shortly after the concrete sets, so you can see and repair them quickly.
Settling
Settling floors and a foundation on your home or building is a more serious issue. Over time, concrete floor slabs begin to settle, causing cracks.
Other signs of settling include the floor separating from the wall or ceiling as the foundation shifts and pulls.
Signs of settling mean that a deeper issue is at work – likely one you can’t see. Structural damage or a weak foundation is a major, dangerous problem that needs a quick solution.
If the cracks you see on your floors aren’t from wear and tear, have a professional inspect your foundation for any underlying issues.
Try These Solutions for Cracked Floors Today
Is the concrete floor in your home or warehouse showing major signs of wear and tear? While some cracks are normal, others could be the sign of a more serious problem.
Our environmentally-friendly concrete polishing, resurfacing, and leveling techniques give you plenty of solutions for cracked floors.
Contact us today for a free quote!