Concrete Cracks in San Diego

Most concrete in its hardened state is a very brittle structure. It has very low tensile strength. Tensile strength measures the concrete’s ability to flex without cracking. However, most concrete also has a very high compressive strength. Compressive strength is the amount of force that can be applied to the surface of the concrete before it becomes pulverized.

Cars drive over bridges every day, and this causes cracks to form not only on roads but under bridges as well due to heavy vehicles driving over them constantly. These types of cracks are typically going to be at least one centimeter long or longer, and they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon with how often they are severely tested.

Smaller cracks may go all the way through the asphalt/concrete, or more than likely, they will stop at about five millimeters in length. These types of cracks are usually the result of poor maintenance on roads over time, like water not being properly drained away from the area, which in colder areas freezes and thaws, causing damage to infrastructure.

The reason that these smaller cracks aren’t repaired is that they pose no threat to drivers who do not even notice them. Typically, if there isn’t a pothole or larger crack nearby, then motorists won’t be able to tell these small ones are there either.

Preventative Maintenance

As long as road crews keep up with what needs to get done, the highways will continue to operate smoothly for years to come.

This is especially true when it comes to the preventative maintenance that needs to be done on bridges. Bridges are used by millions of Americans each year. When they get cracked, repairs need to be made immediately because if left alone for too long, the bridge will eventually become unusable, which would really mess up everyone’s commute.

Repairing Roads

Repairing roads and bridges isn’t exactly cheap, but all construction materials cost money, so whatever goes into fixing these structures has got to be coming from somewhere. There are certain steps that can be taken in order to reduce how much it costs for this type of work, but every crack requires money and time no matter what.

When considering replacing a bridge or section of roadway altogether, it seems like an enormous job that no one would want to take on, especially considering the fact that many bridges are decades old. This is expensive but necessary in order to keep them safe and functional.

It is important for all drivers (private, commercial, etc.) to be aware of their surroundings at all times because there may not always be an abundance of warnings when it comes to finding cracks across the road. Getting familiar with what they look like will make spotting them easier, which can help avoid accidents down the line.

Conclusion

Call San Diego Concrete at (619) 383-2500 to schedule your appointment for a free estimate. We offer concrete crack repair in San Diego, CA.