Wondering if it’s time to replace your garage floor in Plymouth, MI? Garage floors don’t last forever, and eventually need to be repaired or replaced. Knowing what signs to look out for can help you be proactive about maintaining your floor, which can save you time and money in the long run.
Even if the damage appears small at first, it’s important to address it before it turns into a bigger–and costlier–problem. Working with concrete professionals like our team at D&G Cement Co. is the best way to analyze your garage floor and decide if replacement is right for you.
7 Signs You Should Replace Your Garage Floor
Wide Cracking
Cracks wider than a ¼ of an inch may indicate it’s time to replace your garage floor. You should also monitor the size of the cracks. If they cover large sections of the floor or stretch from wall to wall, it should be addressed as soon as you can.
These types of cracks may indicate problems with the ground beneath your garage floor, or they could be a sign of improper installation.
Leaving them as-is without taking any steps to repair or replace them can lead to water damage, which only leads to further deterioration.
Frequent Cracking
If cracks keep reappearing after you get them repaired, it could be a sign there’s a problem with the sub-base under the floor. This could include soil erosion, poor soil compaction, or problems with tree roots.
Improper installation methods are also a contributing factor. Inexperienced concrete contractors may use the wrong water-to-cement ration or have insufficient reinforcement before placing the floor.
With frequent cracks, repairs won’t help, since the underlying issue isn’t being addressed. Instead, a full replacement can be beneficial because it allows the contractors to perform a proper assessment of the ground and fix the sub-base.
Sinking
Uneven floors or sinking in certain areas indicate similar problems with soil erosion or poor compaction. In these cases, replacement of the floor or a particular slab in the floor can address these issues, especially if they’re recurring or severe.
Pitting
If you notice your garage floor pitting or flaking, it indicates a problem with the surface of the concrete. This can result from a poor-quality concrete mix, exposure to harsh chemicals, or freeze-thaw cycles. Once the concrete begins flaking off, it won’t be able to be repaired with a new coating. Instead, it’s best to replace the floor with new, stronger concrete.
Crumbling
Garage floors that are crumbling around the edges usually occur from exposure to moisture, chemicals, or extreme wear. Crumbling or deterioration indicates the strength of the entire slab may be weakened. In this case, replacement is best in this instance, so you can be sure the structural integrity of the floor is strong enough to withstand your daily usage.
Drainage Issues
If you see water pooling on your garage floor, it indicates significant drainage issues. Other signs like damp spots or musty odors can also be signs.
Drainage problems can occur both on or under the slabs. Over time, they can weaken the concrete, lead to mold, and cause soil erosion.
Replacement is essential in this situation so the contractors can implement proper drainage solutions under the sub-base.
Failed Repairs
Sometimes repairs are only short-term solutions, while the real issue is a deeper, underlying problem. If you’ve gone through numerous repairs for any one of these issues, it may be time to consider a new garage floor.
A full replacement allows concrete professionals to properly assess the ground beneath your floor and take preventative measures to address drainage or compaction issues. From there, they can install a new floor that’s more durable.
D&G Cement Co. is Your No. 1 Source for Garage Floors That Last
Having issues with your garage floor? Our team at D&G Cement Co. have 50+ years of experience working with concrete and garage floors in Plymouth, MI, and across Southeast MIchigan. We use professional techniques to install your floor, as well as a high-quality concrete mixture.
If you’re tired of ineffective and costly short-term fixes, consider reaching out to our concrete professionals to upgrade your garage floor. Call (313) 277-2676 or contact us online to get started.