When should concrete be repaired vs. replaced in Plano?
Repair vs. replacement depends on damage extent, cost, and structural requirements. Repair preferred when: damage affects less than 25% of surface, structural integrity intact, cost savings significant, building operational requirements favor repair speed. Replacement necessary when: extensive cracking throughout slab, severe settlement or heaving, corrosion damage to reinforcement widespread, cost of repair approaches replacement. For Plano commercial properties, repair often 50-75% less expensive than replacement. Professional assessment required—experienced contractors provide both options with cost comparison.
How long do concrete repairs last in North Texas climate?
Concrete repair longevity depends on repair method and environmental conditions. Properly executed repairs in Plano: epoxy injection 10-20+ years, polyurethane injection 5-10 years, concrete replacement 20-40 years, carbon fiber reinforcement 20-30 years, protective coatings 5-15 years. North Texas heat, humidity, and soil movement accelerate deterioration—quality installation critical. Most commercial repairs designed for 10-20 year service life. Regular inspection and maintenance extend service life. Poor repairs fail within 2-5 years.
Can concrete cracks be permanently fixed?
Most concrete cracks can be effectively treated but complete prevention difficult due to concrete nature. Active cracks (from ongoing movement) require addressing root cause first—soil stabilization, drainage improvement, foundation underpinning. Structural cracks repaired with epoxy injection restoring load transfer. Non-structural cracks sealed with flexible materials allowing movement. Surface cracks ground and patched. While repairs effective, concrete naturally cracks from shrinkage, thermal movement, and loading. Quality repairs extend service life significantly but periodic maintenance required.
What's the most common cause of concrete failure in Plano?
Expansive clay soil movement most common concrete failure cause in Plano. High-plasticity clay soils swell when wet (monsoon season) and shrink when dry (hot summers), causing differential movement beneath slabs. Results in random cracking, settlement, and heaving. Other common causes: poor drainage allowing water accumulation, corrosion of embedded steel from chloride exposure, freeze-thaw damage (though mild), and construction defects. Most failures preventable with proper geotechnical investigation, drainage design, and quality construction. Foundation movement accounts for 60-70% of Plano concrete repair needs.
Do concrete repairs require engineering in Plano?
Most structural concrete repairs require engineering oversight. Plano building department requires licensed engineer for repairs affecting: load-bearing elements, foundations, seismic-resistant systems, parking structures. Engineer provides: repair design specifications, material requirements, inspection requirements. Special inspections mandatory for post-tensioned concrete, structural welding, concrete compressive strength. Non-structural repairs (surface patching, cosmetic cracks) may not require engineering but professional contractor recommended. Engineering ensures repairs meet code and provide adequate strength. Cost of engineering small compared to repair failure consequences.
How much do concrete repairs cost in Plano?
Concrete repair costs vary by damage type and extent. In Plano: crack injection $5-15 per linear foot, slab replacement $15-40 per square foot, structural repair $20-60 per square foot, surface restoration $3-10 per square foot. Emergency repairs 20-50% premium. Geotechnical investigation $2,000-5,000. Engineering $1,000-3,000. Costs depend on: access difficulty, concrete thickness, reinforcement requirements, location. Most commercial repairs $10-30 per square foot installed. Emergency response increases costs. Quality repairs cost more initially but prevent expensive failures.