Should You Repair or Replace Your Cracked Concrete?

Should You Repair or Replace Your Cracked Concrete?

If you’ve noticed cracks in your driveway, patio, or garage floor, you’re probably wondering: Is it time to repair, or do I need to replace the whole thing? The good news is, not every crack spells disaster. In fact, many concrete issues can be fixed without a full tear-out—if you know what to look for.

Start with the Size of the Crack

Small cracks—think hairline to about a quarter inch wide—are usually cosmetic. These can often be sealed or patched without much hassle. But if the cracks are wider than half an inch, or you see them spreading or changing shape, it could be a sign of something more serious. That’s when it’s smart to call in a pro for a structural evaluation.

Level or Lopsided?

Another thing to look at is whether the concrete is still level. If parts of your slab are sinking, tilting, or uneven, that’s a sign the soil underneath may have shifted. The good news? This doesn’t always mean full replacement. Solutions like poly-leveling or foam injection can lift and stabilize sunken slabs quickly and cleanly—no need to rip everything out.

What’s Causing the Damage?

Water pooling near the cracks is a red flag. It could mean you’re dealing with poor drainage, erosion, or even unstable soil beneath the slab. And if you’ve had cracks fixed before, only to see them return, that’s a clue the original problem wasn’t addressed—often it’s the soil, not the surface.

Cosmetic or Structural?

It’s easy to ignore a few surface-level cracks, especially if they’re small. But when cracks start to grow, cause shifting, or reappear after repair, they could be pointing to deeper structural issues. This is especially important to evaluate if the concrete supports heavy loads—like in garages or foundations.

Consider How the Space Is Used

Not all concrete is created equal. A cracked patio or sidewalk might only need surface-level work. But if you’re dealing with concrete in a garage, driveway, or any area that takes weight or wear, you’ll want to be sure it’s sound from the ground up.

Budget and Time Matter, Too

Concrete replacement isn’t just expensive—it’s messy and time-consuming. On the other hand, lifting and leveling options like foam injection can often be completed in a few hours with minimal disruption. For many homeowners, it’s the smart middle ground: strong results without the full demo.

The Bottom Line?

If your concrete is cracking, don’t just assume it needs to be replaced. The problem may not be the slab itself—but what’s happening underneath it. A proper evaluation can save you time, money, and frustration.

✅ Need Answers? We’ve Got You.

Book a free concrete inspection and find out exactly what your home needs. No pressure, no guesswork—just an honest recommendation from people who know what they’re looking at.