Don’t Ignore Concrete Spalling—Here’s How to Handle It the Right Way

If you’ve ever seen concrete that’s flaking, chipping, or breaking apart at the surface, you’ve seen what’s called concrete spalling. It’s a common issue on driveways, sidewalks, patios, and even garage floors. At first, it might look like a few small cracks or surface pits—but over time, those spots can grow deeper and cause real damage.

A lot of people search for concrete repair near me when they start seeing this kind of damage. That’s because catching it early can save you from a full replacement down the line.

What Causes Concrete Spalling?

There are a few main reasons why concrete starts to spall. Most of them involve moisture, temperature changes, and poor installation. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Freeze and Thaw Cycles

When water gets into tiny cracks or pores in the concrete, it can freeze and expand. This puts pressure on the surface and causes it to break apart. This is a big problem in areas with cold winters.

2. Too Much Water in the Mix

If the concrete mix had too much water when it was poured, it becomes weaker and more likely to spall. A poor mix can’t hold up to normal wear and tear or changes in weather.

3. Improper Finishing

Sometimes, the surface of the concrete gets finished too soon or too fast. That traps water just below the surface and leads to flaking later on.

4. Deicing Chemicals

Using salts to melt ice in winter might help with safety, but over time, those chemicals can eat away at the concrete’s surface and make it more likely to spall.

5. Corrosion of Reinforcing Steel

If your concrete has rebar or wire inside, and moisture reaches that steel, it can rust. Rust expands and pushes outward, causing the surrounding concrete to crack and fall apart.

How to Fix Concrete Spalling

If you’re seeing signs of spalling on your driveway, patio, or sidewalk, it’s important to act fast. The sooner you deal with it, the better your chances are of avoiding bigger, more expensive repairs.

Here’s how pros handle it:

Step 1: Inspection

A good contractor will first inspect the area to figure out how deep the damage goes. If it’s just surface-level, it can often be repaired easily. If it goes deeper, the fix might be more involved.

Step 2: Surface Prep

The damaged concrete will need to be cleaned, and any loose pieces removed. The surface has to be solid and free of dust, dirt, or oil for the repair to stick properly.

Step 3: Resurfacing or Patching

For shallow spalling, resurfacing is often the best fix. This means applying a new, thin layer of concrete over the damaged area to make it look and feel new again.

If the damage is deeper, patching materials like polymer-modified cement may be used to fill in and bond to the broken sections.

Step 4: Sealing and Protection

Once repaired, sealing the concrete is important to keep water, chemicals, and future damage out. A good sealant can extend the life of your concrete and help prevent spalling from happening again.

When to Search for Concrete Repair Near Me

Not every concrete problem needs to be replaced—but most of them do need a professional touch. If you’re not sure how bad the damage is, or if DIY repairs haven’t worked, that’s a good time to search for concrete repair near me and find a trusted local expert.

A professional will know how to assess the damage, choose the right materials, and make the fix last. They can also help you protect your concrete from future problems.

How to Prevent Concrete Spalling in the Future

• Seal your concrete regularly to block water and chemicals.

• Avoid using harsh deicing salts—try sand or other safer options.

• Keep the surface clean and check for cracks regularly.

• Hire a skilled contractor who knows how to mix and pour concrete the right way.

Keep Your Concrete Strong and Safe

Spalling might start small, but it can quickly turn into a bigger problem if it’s ignored. Whether it’s your driveway, patio, sidewalk, or garage floor, keeping your concrete in good shape matters—for safety, for looks, and for the long-term value of your home.

If you’re noticing surface flaking or cracking, don’t wait. Look for a reliable concrete repair near me—like the experienced team at Intricate Concrete—to get professional help. With the right repair and some basic care, your concrete can stay solid and strong for years to come.