Concrete must be allowed to expand and contract with temperature changes. Joints provide a controlled location for cracking and movement. Thus, all expansion joints are left in place after a concrete installation, and should not be filled with concrete.

Caulking can be placed over the cracks inside the control joints to prevent debris and water from getting underneath your concrete surface and causing damage. However, anytime a coating is being applied over concrete, the expansion joint or control joint should remain exposed and be worked into the design.

There are many methods and cost ranges for repairing cracks in concrete installations. The method used to repair a crack is determined by many factors including, but not limited to, the purpose of repairing the crack, size, budget, and material going over the crack (tile, coating, etc.).

Regardless of the method used to fill a crack, it’s possible that it will retrace itself or reappear. So, whenever possible, it should be worked into the design pattern of the coating.

If cracking is an issue, Concrete Texturing may recommend a flagstone pattern. Since we free-cut our flagstone, we can trace along any crack and make it a grout line within a flagstone pattern. Since our grout lines are slightly recessed, any flaws are less visible. The crack is also much easier to repair if it opens up again in the future.

When preparing concrete for installation, Concrete Texturing uses a combination of muriatic acid, grinders, sanders, and pressure washers, depending on what is required to create the ideal profile. Chemicals are used to remove oil, adhesives, and paints from the location where the concrete will be installed. Concrete Texturing comes prepared for anything because every surface has its own unique challenges and quirks.