Is your concrete damaged or stained? Has the time finally taken its toll on it? If your concrete flooring has started to look old or has been damaged over time, you may be faced with the decision of whether you want to repair it or replace it. But can it be repaired without having to replace it? Is the damage so severe that your concrete is irreparable? Unfortunately, depending on the severity of your old and worn-out concrete will depend on if you need to repair or replace it.
Inspect Your Floors Regularly
If you have been considering making a change to your concrete flooring because of its condition, the first thing to do would be to give it a thorough inspection so that you can make a good decision on if it should be replaced or repaired. An inspection will also let you see how your floors are wearing over time and which areas may need more attention than others. It is best to inspect your concrete flooring on a weekly basis. During your inspection, you should check for cracking, curling, sinking, efflorescence (white powder on the surface), or discoloration. While you may only be able to see the issues on the surface, looking at your concrete frequently will help with knowing when it is time to repair or replace it.
How Do I Know When My Concrete Needs to Be Repaired?
If your concrete flooring has started to show signs of being worn out and cracked, this is often known as a surface-level problem. However, this problem can often be solved by filling in the spaces, cleaning the floor, using a floor coating of your choice, and applying a new concrete floor sealer to keep your investment well-protected. Unfortunately, just doing a surface inspection by yourself will not let you know if there are bigger problems, which is why hiring a reliable and experienced professional to come and check out your concrete is better than trying to figure out the problem yourself.
Once your concrete flooring is thoroughly and professionally checked, they will help determine if there is damage in just one area or if the damage has spread across the entire concrete floor. If there is damage in a localized area, then your hired professional will let you know, and depending on the severity, it will be repaired.
When is it Time to Replace Your Concrete Flooring?
Sometimes the issues with your concrete floor are more complicated than a simple repair. There are certain instances when it is necessary for your concrete to be replaced. For example, if the earth has shifted significantly, then it may be time to install a new floor. If left ignored, your concrete floor could continue to crack and fall apart over time. Another reason you may have to invest in installing a new concrete floor is if it was not installed correctly, to begin with.
So, any problems with the base of your floor will require the help of a professional. Without a strong foundation, your floor’s entire integrity will quickly deteriorate and lead to visible problems on the surface.
