Cracked Concrete Woes? Explore Concrete Alternatives to Fix Those Cracks!
Concrete is undoubtedly durable, but it's not invincible. Over time, concrete surfaces can develop unsightly cracks. If you're tired of looking at these cracks and wondering what to do next, you're in the right place. We'll not only discuss how to fix concrete cracks but also introduce you to some innovative concrete alternatives that can breathe new life into your space.
Fixing Concrete Cracks: A Common Challenge
Cracks in concrete are a common issue, whether it's your driveway, patio, or even the foundation of your home. These cracks can occur due to various reasons, including temperature changes, settling, or heavy loads. Fortunately, there are solutions to address this problem.
How to Fix Concrete Cracks
1. Fill with Sealant: For small cracks, you can use concrete sealant to fill the gaps. This is a relatively simple and cost-effective solution that prevents moisture from seeping in and further damaging the concrete.
2. Resurfacing: Resurfacing your concrete is an effective way to hide cracks and give your surface a fresh look. It involves applying a thin layer of concrete over the existing one, creating a smooth, even finish. This is not a long-lasting solution however, but it is a quick and inexpensive fix to the problem.
3. Concrete Overlays: Concrete overlays are an excellent option for cracked surfaces. They provide a new layer of concrete, covering the imperfections below. Overlays come in various textures and colors, allowing you to customize your space.
Exploring Concrete Alternatives
Fixing cracks is one thing, but why not take the opportunity to explore concrete alternatives that not only address the issue but also upgrade your space? In the Las Vegas heat, concrete can also be scorching on bare feet trying to enjoy the outdoors in summer.
Here are a few ideas of concrete alternatives to upgrade your space:
1. Rubber Surfacing: Of course we recommend the thing we are pros at! Rubber surfacing is a versatile option for outdoor spaces. It offers slip resistance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Plus, it can be installed over existing concrete, covering those bothersome cracks.
2. Pavers: Pavers are a fantastic alternative to traditional concrete surfaces. They come in various styles and shapes, allowing you to create a unique and eye-catching look. Plus, pavers are relatively easy to replace if any of them get damaged.
3. Stamped Concrete: Stamped concrete is an artistic way to refresh your space. It involves adding texture and patterns to the concrete, creating a beautiful, customized appearance. It can also be used to hide cracks and imperfections. (This does not fix the issue of cracks and hot surfaces long term!)
4. Gravel or Pea Gravel: A gravel surface is an excellent option for walkways and outdoor areas. It's not only cost-effective but also allows water to drain easily, reducing the risk of future cracks. (This can be messy though, and can be hot to the touch in the heat of summer, as well.)
Cracks in your concrete don't have to be a permanent eyesore. There are various ways to address the issue, from sealants and resurfacing to innovative concrete alternatives like rubber surfacing, pavers, stamped concrete, or gravel.
Of course, we definitely recommend rubber surfacing. We install it all the time, and we see the long-lasting benefits of rubber surfacing on outdoor and indoor areas.
Better yet, we don’t even have to remove the cracked concrete! We can level it out and pour the rubber surfacing right over the top, so there’s NO messy demolition or extra time delays for cleanup.
Take this opportunity to not just fix the cracks but also enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your space. Explore the options of rubber surfacing, and you'll be amazed at how you can transform your concrete woes into a stunning outdoor space.
