Concrete Repair & Restoration

When to Repair vs Replace

Not every damaged concrete surface needs full replacement. In many cases, professional repair and restoration can extend the life of your existing concrete by 10-20 years at a fraction of the replacement cost. The key is knowing when repair makes sense and when replacement is the better long-term solution.

Good candidates for repair include surface cracks less than 1/4 inch wide, minor spalling or chipping, small settled areas, and stained or worn surfaces. If your concrete is structurally sound but just showing its age, repair and restoration can make it look and perform like new.

Poor candidates for repair include concrete with major structural cracks, severe settling, extensive deterioration, or improper installation from the start. In these cases, replacement is more cost-effective long-term. We evaluate your specific situation honestly and recommend the approach that makes the most sense for your property and budget.

Concrete Problems We Fix

We handle a wide range of concrete repair and restoration work throughout Tustin:

• Crack repair: Filling and sealing cracks to prevent water intrusion and further damage
• Spalling repair: Fixing surface deterioration where the concrete has chipped or flaked away
• Joint resealing: Removing old sealant and installing new material to protect expansion joints
• Surface resurfacing: Applying a new thin layer of concrete or overlay to refresh worn surfaces
• Leveling and lifting: Using mudjacking or polyurethane injection to raise sunken concrete sections
• Stain removal: Treating oil stains, rust marks, and other discoloration
• Sealing and waterproofing: Protecting concrete from moisture damage and freeze-thaw cycles
• Corner and edge repairs: Rebuilding damaged corners on steps, driveways, or patios

We repair driveways, patios, walkways, garage floors, pool decks, and commercial concrete surfaces. Each repair method is chosen based on the type and extent of damage.

Our Repair Process

Successful concrete repair starts with proper surface preparation. We clean the damaged area thoroughly, removing loose concrete, dirt, oil, and any contaminants that would prevent proper bonding. For crack repairs, we sometimes need to widen the crack slightly to create a better profile for the repair material.

Next, we select the appropriate repair material based on the damage type and location. Options include epoxy injection for structural cracks, polymer-modified concrete for surface repairs, self-leveling compounds for low spots, and specialized sealants for joints. Using the right material is critical for long-lasting repairs.

We apply repair materials according to manufacturer specifications, ensuring proper thickness, cure time, and finish. For large repairs or resurfacing projects, we may need to blend the new material with the existing concrete color and texture so the repair is less noticeable.

Finally, we seal or protect the repaired area to prevent future damage. This might include applying a concrete sealer, waterproofing membrane, or protective coating depending on the location and exposure conditions. Proper protection helps your repair last as long as possible.

Concrete Resurfacing and Overlays

If your concrete is structurally sound but the surface looks worn, stained, or dated, resurfacing might be your best option. This process involves applying a thin layer (1/8 to 1/2 inch) of new material over the existing concrete, creating a fresh surface without the cost and mess of full replacement.

Resurfacing products bond to the old concrete and can be finished smooth, textured, or even stamped to create a decorative look. You can also add color to match or update your property aesthetic. This approach works great for driveways, patios, pool decks, and garage floors that need a facelift.

The resurfaced concrete is ready to walk on within 24 hours and fully cured in about a week. With proper sealing and maintenance, a resurfaced surface can last 10-15 years before needing attention again.

Frequently Asked Questions