Concrete Repair & Replacement

Do Not Ignore Concrete Problems

Concrete damage rarely gets better on its own. Small cracks grow into big cracks. Minor settling becomes major structural issues. Surface wear turns into deep deterioration. The longer you wait to address concrete problems, the more expensive repairs become, and eventually replacement is your only option. The good news is that catching problems early and fixing them properly can save you thousands of dollars and extend the life of your concrete by years or even decades.

We specialize in repairing all types of concrete damage throughout San Bruno. Whether you have a cracked driveway, a settling patio, spalling steps, or a damaged foundation, we can evaluate the problem and recommend the best solution. Sometimes a simple repair is all you need. Other times, partial or complete replacement makes more sense. We always give you honest advice about what will work best for your situation and your budget.

The Bay Area climate and soil conditions create unique challenges for concrete. Temperature changes cause expansion and contraction. Our clay soils shift and settle. Tree roots push up from below. Earthquakes create stress and movement. All of these factors contribute to concrete damage over time. Understanding these local issues helps us provide repairs that actually last instead of just covering up problems temporarily.

Common Concrete Problems We Fix

Cracks are the most common concrete problem we see. Hairline cracks are usually cosmetic and can be filled easily. Wider cracks that run all the way through the slab indicate more serious issues like settling or structural stress. We assess each crack to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate repairs. Simply filling cracks without addressing what caused them is a waste of money because they will just come back.

Spalling is when the surface of concrete flakes, chips, or breaks away. This often happens when moisture gets into the concrete, freezes, and expands. It can also result from poor finishing, using de-icing salts, or simply age and wear. Spalling not only looks bad but also exposes the aggregate and reinforcement to further damage. We can resurface spalled concrete or replace severely damaged sections.

Settling and sinking happen when the ground beneath your concrete shifts or erodes. You might notice one section of your driveway lower than another, or patio slabs that have tilted. This creates trip hazards and drainage problems. We offer concrete leveling services that can lift and stabilize sunken slabs without the need for complete replacement. For severe cases, we remove and replace the affected sections with proper base preparation to prevent future settling.

Surface erosion and pitting occur when concrete deteriorates from exposure to weather, chemicals, or heavy use. You might see rough, pitted surfaces or areas where the concrete has worn down significantly. Sometimes this can be repaired with resurfacing or overlays. Other times, if the damage is too deep, replacement is more practical. We evaluate the extent of damage and help you choose the most cost-effective solution.

Signs Your Concrete Needs Attention

• Cracks wider than a quarter inch or cracks that are growing
• Uneven surfaces or sections that have sunk or tilted
• Flaking, chipping, or crumbling surface concrete
• Water pooling where it should drain away
• Exposed rebar or aggregate showing through the surface
• Loose or broken sections that move when walked on
• Stains that will not come out or discoloration that spreads

Repair vs. Replacement: Making the Right Choice

One of the most common questions we get is whether to repair or replace damaged concrete. The answer depends on several factors including the extent of damage, the age of the concrete, and how you plan to use the area. As a general rule, if damage affects less than 25 percent of the surface and the remaining concrete is in good condition, repair is usually the better choice. It costs less, takes less time, and can add years of life to your concrete.

Replacement makes sense when damage is widespread, when the concrete is very old and deteriorating throughout, or when the base underneath has failed. If you have multiple repair patches already and new problems keep appearing, replacement is probably more cost-effective in the long run. Starting fresh with properly prepared base and new concrete eliminates ongoing maintenance headaches.

Sometimes a hybrid approach works best. We might replace the worst sections and repair the rest. This gives you most of the benefits of full replacement at a lower cost. We can also match new concrete to your existing concrete in color and finish so the repairs blend in nicely. The key is getting an accurate assessment from experienced professionals who will give you honest advice instead of just trying to sell you the most expensive option.

Our Repair and Replacement Process

Every project starts with a thorough inspection. We look at the visible damage, but we also check for underlying problems. Is the base stable? Is water draining properly? Are there tree roots or soil issues causing movement? We take photos, measurements, and notes so we can give you an accurate estimate and a clear explanation of what needs to be done.

For repairs, we start by cleaning and preparing the damaged area. This might involve grinding, cutting, or chipping away loose or deteriorated concrete. The repair area needs to be clean and sound for new material to bond properly. We use high-quality repair compounds, epoxy fillers, or fresh concrete depending on the type and size of damage. For structural repairs, we add reinforcement to tie the repair into the existing concrete.

Replacement projects follow our standard concrete installation process. We remove the old, damaged concrete and haul it away. Then we evaluate and prepare the base, adding or replacing material as needed. Proper compaction and grading prevent the same problems from happening again. We install forms, reinforcement, and pour fresh concrete with the finish you choose. The result looks great and will last for decades with proper care.

After repairs or replacement, we discuss maintenance tips to help you avoid future problems. This might include sealing the concrete, improving drainage, being careful with de-icing products, or addressing nearby tree roots. A little preventive maintenance goes a long way in protecting your investment and keeping your concrete in good condition.

Specialized Repair Techniques

Some concrete problems require specialized techniques beyond basic repair. Concrete leveling (also called mudjacking or slabjacking) is a process where we drill small holes in sunken concrete and pump a lifting material underneath to raise it back to the proper level. This technique works great for patios, sidewalks, and driveways where sections have settled but the concrete itself is still in good shape. It costs a fraction of replacement and can be done in a single day.

For surface damage that does not go deep, we offer concrete resurfacing. This involves applying a thin layer of special overlay material over your existing concrete to create a fresh, new surface. Resurfacing can also change the appearance of old concrete by adding color, texture, or decorative patterns. It is like giving your concrete a facelift without the cost and disruption of full replacement.

Epoxy injection is our solution for structural cracks in foundation walls or load-bearing concrete. We inject high-strength epoxy resin into cracks under pressure, which fills the crack completely and bonds the concrete back together. This restores structural integrity and prevents water infiltration. Epoxy repairs are incredibly strong and permanent when done correctly.

For concrete that has suffered chemical damage or heavy wear, we sometimes use specialized coatings and sealers that provide extra protection. These industrial-grade products create a durable barrier that resists stains, chemicals, and abrasion. They work well in garages, workshops, and other areas where concrete takes a beating.

Frequently Asked Questions