Who Do I Hire to Repair Concrete?

Damaged concrete can be an aesthetic problem to a structural one. Regardless of the severity of the damage, knowing who to call to repair concrete is the first step in getting it fixed. In most cases, you’ll want professional service from a contractor who knows what they’re doing and can guarantee a long-lasting solution. In this guide, we’ll discuss your options and why it’s best to hire a concrete company.

Benefits of Hiring a Dedicated Concrete Company for Concrete Repair

We strongly recommend hiring a local concrete repair company for any concrete repair you need, whether it’s purely aesthetic, like repairing a surface crack on an exterior patio, or structural, like a deep crack on a concrete foundation wall or concrete slab. You might spend a bit more time finding a dedicated concrete company, as they’re not as prevalent as general contractors, but you’ll see quite a few benefits if you do spend the time looking for one:

• Longer-lasting solution: Perhaps most importantly, a concrete company will have professionals with the experience to do the work properly. They’ll consider exposure to the elements and quality of the existing concrete before implementing a repair that’s likely to last for decades.

• More likely to get a guarantee: Since concrete companies have more experience with concrete repair than do-it-all contractors, they’re more likely to offer a guarantee for the work.

• Understanding of structural loads: Concrete companies often have engineers on staff who understand structural loads and limitations. This is crucial for ensuring you get a strong and permanent solution, especially when dealing with damage to your concrete foundation.

• Often less expensive: Concrete repair companies typically own the tools required for concrete work, including mixers. That means they can charge less for their services, as they don’t need to build in costs to cover rentals.

Can I Hire a Patio Contractor for Concrete Repair?

If you’re dealing with damage to a concrete patio, most patio contractors and installers will be able to repair or replace your damaged patio. However, a concrete company can call in an on-staff structural engineer to ensure there are no underlying issues that could also affect your home’s foundation. Budgeting for patio repair costs as soon as you notice a problem is a good way to avoid more expensive foundation issues down the road. 

Can I Hire a General Contractor for Concrete Repair?

Most general contractors will be able to handle concrete repair, but you’ll often pay more because they tend to subcontract out smaller jobs like concrete repairs. You’ll end up paying the repair cost plus the general contractor’s fee, which can range from 10% to 20% of the project total.

Additionally, general contractors will tend to have less experience with concrete than concrete companies. You’re more likely to get a nicer-looking and potentially longer-lasting repair if you go with a company specializing in concrete work.

Can I Hire a Handyman for Concrete Repair?

You can also hire a handyman for concrete repair, but much like DIY concrete repair, it’s not a good idea unless you’re certain the damage isn’t structural. A concrete company can assess the damage to determine and correct the underlying issue, which could save you money in the long run on ongoing damages and repairs.

How Do Concrete Companies Repair Concrete?

Concrete companies can use a few different techniques to repair concrete. First, most will assess the damage to determine why it occurred in the first place. If the damage involves your foundation, they’ll bring in a structural engineer to determine if there has been a loss of structural integrity before repairing the concrete slab.

Next, the company will correct the underlying problem—like poor drainage or unstable soil below the concrete.

Finally, the professional will complete the actual repair. For hairline cracks that represent cosmetic damage, they’ll clean the concrete before applying a sealant, smoothing it out, and letting it cure. For some types of concrete cracks, especially in load-bearing concrete, they may rely on their structural engineer’s advice for the repair, which could involve underpinning before sealing the crack. For repairing concrete steps, they’ll remove loose concrete, build a new form around the damaged area, and re-pour the concrete to let it cure in place. In the case of sinking concrete, they may use a concrete leveling method or re-pour the damaged slab.

How Much Does Concrete Repair Cost?

Concrete repair costs between $3 and $25 per square foot, depending on the type of repair and the extent of the damage. Filling small cracks can cost $0.50 to $3 per linear foot, while concrete leveling averages between $6 and $25 per square foot. Replacing a concrete slab can cost $4 to $8 per square foot, plus the price of removing the old slab. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

It is possible to do DIY concrete repair, but it’s not always a good idea. If you’re certain that the concrete problem is purely aesthetic, like a surface crack on a concrete sidewalk or walkway, you can try repairing it. However, we strongly recommend hiring a professional to repair any concrete that is under load, especially your home’s foundation.

Cracks in a concrete driveway or foundation might look harmless, but they could be stemming from structural instability or a larger underlying problem, like expansive soil outside or poor drainage. A concrete repair company can assess the damage to see if it’s a sign of a bigger problem. They’ll also be able to restore structural integrity if it is, using methods that DIYers should steer clear of.

Additionally, it’s possible to mess up mixing concrete, in which case you could get concrete segregation or other imperfections like concrete popouts that don’t look good. You might also find ongoing cracking if you don’t apply the new concrete or let it set properly.