Have you noticed a crack in your concrete? You’re not alone. Cement cracks are a common problem for homeowners in Edmonton and Northern Alberta. They start small but can quickly lead to bigger issues.
Water seeps in. Your basement feels damp. In winter, the freeze-thaw cycle makes cracks expand. Over time, this weakens your foundation. Left unchecked, even minor cracks can turn into serious structural problems.
Quick fixes don’t last. To truly protect your home, you need professional cement crack repair. Shield Foundation Repair specializes in long-term solutions that stop water intrusion and prevent further damage.
In this article, you will learn:
- Why concrete cracks form and what they mean for your home.
- The best professional repair methods to restore structural integrity.
- How Shield Foundation Repair provides expert solutions that last.
Let’s get started.
Why Does Concrete Crack?
Concrete cracks for many reasons, but one of the biggest culprits is the freeze-thaw cycle. In cold climates like Edmonton and Northern Alberta, moisture seeps into small gaps in the concrete. When temperatures drop, the water expands as it freezes, widening the cracks. This cycle repeats throughout the winter, which leads to cracked concrete slabs, driveways, and foundations.
Soil movement is another cause. As the ground shifts due to moisture changes, tree roots, or settling, the concrete above it can crack. Poor installation, such as improper curing or weak concrete mix, can also make concrete more prone to damage over time.
Ignoring these cracks can lead to serious foundation issues. Water infiltration weakens the concrete and can cause basement leaks, mold growth, and even structural instability. If you notice cracks in your concrete, it’s essential to repair them before they turn into costly problems.
The Risks of Ignoring Concrete Cracks
A small concrete crack may seem harmless at first, but it can quickly turn into a major repair issue. Cracks act as entry points for water, which can cause moisture damage, mold, and mildew. In the winter, trapped water expands as it freezes, forcing cracks to widen. This weakens the surrounding concrete and accelerates deterioration.
Over time, cracks in concrete can compromise your foundation’s integrity. Slabs, driveways, patios, and basement walls with unchecked cracks may develop uneven surfaces, sinking, or further splitting. In severe cases, foundation movement may lead to doors and windows sticking, uneven floors, or structural instability.
If left unaddressed, these issues can lead to significant structural concerns. To understand the full extent of the risk, it’s crucial to learn what happens if you ignore foundation problems. Delaying repairs can result in more costly damage down the road, which makes proactive maintenance essential.
Some warning signs that cracked concrete needs professional attention include water pooling, visible widening of cracks, and crumbling edges. If you notice these issues, a concrete repair expert can assess the damage and recommend the best solution to repair cracked concrete before it gets worse.
Professional Cement Crack Repair: The Shield Approach
Not all cracks in concrete are the same. Before any repair begins, a professional assessment is crucial. Shield Foundation Repair’s experts inspect the width of the crack, depth, and surrounding concrete to determine the best repair method. They also assess potential causes, such as freeze-thaw cycles, foundation settling, or moisture intrusion.
Structural cracks require specialized solutions. Simple crack filler products won’t hold up in load-bearing areas. Instead, professionals use high-strength materials that permanently bond concrete and restore its integrity.
Industry-Leading Repair Techniques
- Structural epoxy injection – For deep cracked concrete, epoxy injection provides a stronger-than-concrete bond that prevents further separation. This method is ideal for foundation walls and load-bearing slabs.
- Advanced waterproofing solutions – Moisture is a major cause of deterioration. Shield Foundation Repair applies specialized sealants that prevent water infiltration and future cracks in concrete.
- Concrete resurfacing & reinforcement – For extensive damage, professionals may use a concrete patch or overlay to strengthen the surface and improve durability.
- Polyurethane injection – This method is highly effective for sealing foundation cracks, as it expands to fill voids and prevents water intrusion, ensuring a long-lasting repair.
Why DIY Fixes Don’t Work
Many homeowners try DIY concrete crack repair with store-bought patching compounds, self-leveling sealants, or caulk guns. These products may offer temporary improvements but don’t address the underlying structural issues. Without a proper repair guide, cracks often return, which leads to larger cracks, water leaks, and costly future repairs.
For long-lasting results, professional repairs are the best solution.
How to Prevent Future Concrete Cracks
Here is how to prevent future concrete cracks.
Control Water & Moisture
One of the biggest causes of concrete cracks is water infiltration. Proper drainage and grading prevent water from pooling around the foundation, which reduces hydrostatic pressure that can push against concrete walls.
Professional waterproofing solutions, like those offered by Shield Foundation Repair, create a protective barrier against moisture. This prevents cracks from forming and helps repair concrete that has already suffered minor damage.
Routine Inspections & Maintenance
Regular foundation inspections help catch small cracks before they turn into bigger issues. Professionals look for hairline cracks, shifting concrete slabs, and signs of moisture damage. Addressing these early prevents cracks in your driveway, foundation walls, and patios from becoming serious structural problems.
For homeowners in Edmonton and Northern Alberta, concrete crack repair isn’t just about fixing existing damage—it’s about preventing future issues. Shield Foundation Repair offers long-term solutions to keep your foundation strong and your home protected.
Why Choose Shield Foundation Repair?
When it comes to concrete crack repair, experience and quality matter. Shield Foundation Repair has been a trusted name in foundation and concrete repair for over 35 years. Our team understands the unique challenges posed by Edmonton’s climate, shifting soil, and freeze-thaw cycles.
We don’t believe in temporary fixes. Our industry-leading repair techniques and premium materials ensure lasting results, whether it’s structural concrete repair, basement waterproofing, or foundation reinforcement. Every project is backed by a transferable lifetime warranty, which gives homeowners peace of mind.
Shield Foundation Repair is Better Business Bureau accredited and recognized for outstanding service. We take pride in providing professional, long-term solutions, not quick fixes. Our services extend beyond just repairing cracks. We also focus on protecting your home from future damage.
If you’re dealing with cracked concrete, don’t wait. We serve Edmonton and surrounding areas and offer expert assessments and proven repair solutions that keep your foundation strong.
Conclusion
Concrete cracks won’t fix themselves. Ignoring them can lead to water damage, foundation instability, and costly repairs. Professional concrete repair ensures that cracks are properly sealed, reinforced, and protected from further deterioration.
Shield Foundation Repair brings expertise, premium service, and a lifetime transferable warranty to every project. We don’t offer quick patches—we provide long-lasting solutions that keep your home safe and stable.
Don’t let small cracks turn into major foundation issues. Contact Shield Foundation Repair today for a professional assessment and reliable concrete repair solutions.
