Concrete:

Workmanship and Care

Concrete and Cracking

Concrete is an incredibly durable material—but one important truth needs to be understood: all concrete cracks. The goal of a proper installation is not to prevent cracking entirely, but to ensure that any cracking is cosmetic, controlled, and non-structural.

The following are expected and do not indicate a problem:

  • Hairline cracks (less than 1/16")
  • Cracks that appear within the first 30 days
  • Cracks that occur at or near control joints
  • Cracks that do not change over time

These are caused by natural shrinkage as concrete cures and are considered cosmetic only.

What May Need Attention

The following fall into a monitor and maintain category:

  • Cracks between 1/16" and 1/4"
  • Cracks that appear between control joints
  • Cracks that slowly grow over time

These cracks are typically not structural but may allow water intrusion if left untreated.

Recommended action: sealing the crack to prevent long-term issues.

What Indicates a Problem

The following are not normal and should be addressed:

  • Cracks wider than 1/4"
  • Cracks where one side is higher than the other (displacement)
  • Cracks that continue to widen or spread
  • Multiple parallel or patterned cracks

These may indicate issues with installation, subgrade movement, or external forces and should be evaluated.

First Year Expectations

Concrete goes through its most active movement during the first year.

  • First 30 days: Most shrinkage cracking occurs (normal)
  • 1–3 months: Concrete stabilizes
  • 3–12 months: Any new cracking is usually due to external factors (soil movement, drainage, loading, etc.)

Our Warranty & Repair Policy

Covered at No Cost (Workmanship Issues)

We will repair concrete issues at no cost within the first year if they are caused by installation-related factors, including:

  • Improper control joint placement or timing
  • Failure to follow proper curing practices
  • Improper concrete mix handling
  • Subgrade preparation issues within our scope of work

At-Cost Repairs (Non-Workmanship Issues)

The following are not considered workmanship issues and can be repaired at cost:

  • Normal shrinkage cracking
  • Cracks caused by soil movement or settling outside of our control
  • Drainage changes after installation
  • Tree roots or underground obstructions
  • Overloading the slab beyond its intended use
  • Freeze-thaw or weather-related effects

When Major Repair or Replacement Is Required

In rare cases, more significant action may be needed. This includes:

  • Cracks wider than 1/2" within the first 30 days
  • Significant vertical displacement
  • Widespread cracking across a large portion of the slab

These situations will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine the appropriate solution.

What You Should Do If You Notice Cracking

  1. Take photos of the crack
  2. Include a ruler or object for scale
  3. Monitor over time to see if it changes
  4. Reach out to us with documentation

Tracking changes over time helps determine whether a crack is cosmetic or requires action.