Why Are There Cracks in Concrete? Learn the Real Reason

Concrete is strong. But over time, it can crack. If you've seen cracks in your driveway, sidewalk, or basement floor, you're not alone. Many people see cracks in concrete and wonder why they happen.

In this article, we’ll explain why concrete cracks. We'll also share how to stop cracks from getting worse. This guide is easy to follow and made for all ages.

Let’s get started!

What Is Concrete?

Concrete is a hard mix. It’s made from water, cement, sand, and gravel. Builders use it to make roads, floors, patios, and walls. It starts as a liquid. Then it dries and becomes hard.

Concrete is tough, but it’s not perfect. Like anything else, it can break down over time.

1. Why Does Concrete Crack?

Many things can cause cracks in concrete. Let’s look at the top reasons:

A. It Dries Too Fast

When concrete dries too fast, it can shrink. Shrinking pulls the surface. This can cause small cracks.

???? Fact: According to the American Concrete Institute, drying too fast is a leading cause of cracks.

B. The Ground Moves

The ground under concrete is not always still. It can move or settle. When this happens, the concrete can crack.

???? Study from NDSU shows soil movement is a common reason for cracks in sidewalks and driveways.

C. It Wasn’t Mixed Right

If the mix has too much water or not enough cement, it gets weak. Weak concrete breaks easier.

D. It’s Too Hot or Cold

Weather plays a big part. If it's hot, the concrete dries too fast. If it freezes, it can break from the inside.

❄️ Expert quote from ConcreteNetwork: “Freeze-thaw cycles are one of concrete’s worst enemies.”

2. Are Cracks in Concrete Dangerous?

Some cracks are small. Others are big. Small cracks are normal. They often don’t cause problems. But big cracks can be dangerous.

Here’s how to tell the difference:

• Hairline cracks: Thin like a strand of hair. Usually safe.
  
  

• Wide cracks: Bigger than a coin. These may need fixing.
  
  

• Cracks with height changes: One side is higher. This can trip people and may mean ground movement.

3. Can Cracks Be Fixed?

Yes, you can fix cracks. Some repairs are simple. Others need a pro.

Here are a few ways to fix them:

A. Fill Small Cracks

Use concrete filler from a hardware store. Clean the crack first. Then fill and smooth it.

B. Seal the Concrete

Sealers protect the surface. They stop water from getting in. This helps prevent more cracks.

C. Call a Professional

For deep or wide cracks, call someone who knows how to fix it right. Matsu Painters can help. They know how to spot serious damage and repair it fast.

4. How to Stop New Cracks

You can’t stop all cracks. But you can lower the chances. Here’s how:

A. Use Good Materials

Better mix means better concrete. Use strong cement and the right amount of water.

B. Pour on the Right Day

Don’t pour concrete in very hot or cold weather. Mild weather is best.

C. Keep It Wet at First

After pouring, don’t let it dry too fast. Cover it and spray water lightly for a few days. This helps it dry slowly and evenly.

???? This is called “curing.” According to the U.S. Department of Energy, curing helps prevent early cracks.

D. Get Help From Experts

Let pros like Matsu Painters do the job. They know how to mix, pour, and care for concrete the right way.

Why Trust Matsu Painters?

Matsu Painters is a local company you can count on. They help families all over Matsu and nearby towns.

Their team fixes more than just cracks. They also:

• Repair drywall
  
  

• Install doors and windows
  
  

• Do plumbing and electrical work
  
  

• Remove snow during winter
  
  

They do the job right and make homes look great again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is it normal to see cracks in new concrete?

A: Yes, small cracks can happen even in new concrete. If they are thin, it's usually not a big problem.

Q2. Can I fix concrete cracks by myself?

A: Yes, if they’re small. Use a concrete filler. For big cracks, call a pro.

Q3. Should I worry if the crack gets bigger over time?

A: Yes. If a crack gets wider or taller, the ground may be shifting. Call an expert to check it out.

Final Thoughts

Cracks in concrete can look bad. But now you know why they happen and what to do. Most cracks are caused by drying too fast, ground movement, or weather changes. Some are small and easy to fix. Others need a pro’s help.

Don’t let cracks get worse. The longer you wait, the harder they are to fix.

If you live in Matsu, call someone you can trust.

✅ Contact Matsu Painters Today!

Need help fixing cracks or other home repairs? Let Matsu Painters take care of it. Their team is friendly, skilled, and fast. Contact us today to get your home back in shape.