Concrete Repair Company of Houston
Concrete Repair Services
Driveways, patios, sidewalks, and parking lots are all common applications for concrete, which is both long-lasting and versatile. However, even the best-laid concrete can become damaged over time due to a lack of reinforcement and invasive tree roots. At AB Concrete, we offer comprehensive concrete repair restoration services in Houston, TX, addressing these critical issues to restore and extend the life of your concrete surfaces.
The Value of Reinforcement in Concrete Repair
One of the most common issues we see in concrete driveway repair is existing concrete that lacks reinforcement steel, or rebar. This deficiency can cause significant structural issues, especially in areas with aggressive tree root growth. Here's why reinforcement is importan for your concrete repair restoration:
Why Reinforcement Matters
Reinforcement, or rebar, is an essential component of concrete construction that provides structural integrity and strength. Concrete slabs without rebar are more likely to crack and shift as a result of environmental stresses and soil movement. Tree roots, in particular, can apply significant pressure, causing the concrete to lift and fracture.
- Structural Integrity: Rebar helps to hold the concrete together, distributing loads more evenly and lowering the risk of cracking and structural failure.
- Tree Root Resistance: With properly installed rebar, tree roots are less likely to lift and damage the concrete. Instead, roots will follow the path of least resistance and grow around or beneath the slab.
Common Issues with Non-Reinforced Concrete
Many builder-quality driveways, sidewalks, and patios in Houston and the surrounding areas were poured without or with improperly installed rebar. This oversight causes numerous problems, including:
- Cracking and Breaking: Concrete is more prone to cracking and breaking when it is not reinforced with rebar.
- Uneven Surfaces: A lack of reinforcement causes sections of concrete to shift and settle unevenly, posing a safety risk.
- Premature Failure: Concrete without adequate reinforcement frequently requires repair or replacement sooner than properly reinforced slabs.
Expert Concrete Repair in Houston, Texas
Our Concrete Repair Process
At AB Concrete, we use a meticulous process to ensure that every repair job is completed to the highest standards, addressing existing damage while preventing future problems.
1. Assessment and Planning
We begin by thoroughly inspecting the damaged area to determine the scope of the problem and planning the necessary repairs. This step is critical for developing an effective repair strategy.
2. Demolition and Removal
- Demolition: The old, damaged concrete is carefully broken up and removed.
- Debris Removal: All debris, including old forms and rebar remnants, is removed to ensure that the worksite is clean.
3. Site Preparation and Formwork
- Building Forms: New forms are designed to define the shape of the repaired area.
- Soil Preparation: The soil is leveled and compacted to provide a solid foundation for the new concrete.
4. Rebar Installation
- Setting Rebar: New rebar is used to reinforce the concrete. Rebar chairs are used to ensure proper rebar positioning by elevating and holding the rebar in place while maintaining the correct distance from the formwork's bottom and sides.
- Rebar Chairs: These supports are essential for keeping the rebar from sinking into the soil and losing its effectiveness in reinforcing the concrete.
5. Concrete Placement
- Pouring New Concrete: New concrete is poured into the prepared forms. We use high-quality concrete mixes that are appropriate for Houston's climate.
- Finishing: The surface is meticulously finished to achieve a smooth, even appearance.
