Concrete driveways definitely crack, which is a common occurrence with concrete driveways that lack control joints. When the cracks are pronounced or displaced (e.g., settlement occurs), they can become a tripping hazard for unwary passersby. Grinding unevenness produced by settling concrete slabs and/or mud-jacking are two ways to deal with this issue. If the cracks and settlement are pronounced, driveways are typically formed and re-poured.
Tag Archives: cracks
VIDEO: Concrete driveways cracking
Concrete driveways definitely crack, which is a common occurrence with concrete driveways that lack control joints. When the cracks are pronounced or displaced (e.g., settlement occurs), they can become a tripping hazard for unwary passersby. Grinding unevenness produced by settling concrete slabs and/or mud-jacking are two ways to deal with this issue. If the cracks and settlement are pronounced, driveways are typically formed and re-poured.
Video: Foundation CRACK Discovered
Foundation cracks are commonly discovered during home inspections. So common, I like to say, “Concrete does two things…it gets hard and it cracks.” The question becomes whether the crack is significant enough to warrant further evaluation and possible repair by a qualified contractor. This particular crack, discovered at an Oak Harbor home inspection on Whidbey Island, had characteristics (e.g., size, displacement, and sharp edges) that warranted a second opinion. Most cracks don’t need further evaluation, in fact I’d estimate that I call this out less than 5% of the time for home inspections. Settling and shrinkage cracks are commonplace. And, older homes can have quite large cracks which, if the edges are worn suggest they’re historic and the home has done all of its settling in the past. When in doubt, I’d recommend first having an experienced home inspector further evaluate and advise as to whether a structural contractor or engineer is warranted. Hope this helps! Continue reading