How Is A Spalling Concrete Sidewalk Repaired?
A smoothly laid concrete sidewalk is treat to our eyes. Such sidewalks not only improve the aesthetics of the surroundings but also enhance the value of the property. Since concrete is a porous material, it absorbs water. With time, the water absorbed by the concrete undergoes contraction and expansion over the seasons and causes the concrete sidewalk to crumble or spall. Spalling can also happen if the water is not added in the right proportion to the concrete mix. A sidewalk which is in a state of disrepair is an instant turnoff for visitors to that property. It may also ward off potential buyers of your property and at the same time decrease the appeal of the landscape. If the sidewalk of your property have is experiencing crumbling issues, it’s time to dial a sidewalk repair contractor in NYC and arrest the damage before it is too late.
Spalling of sidewalks have become a growing menace in NYC. Such problems generally occur because of the freezing temperatures that the place receives. But you can’t make nature a scapegoat always. The underlying cause of spalling is also a workmanship error done by inexperienced contractors. Excess water is added to the concrete due to which that the concrete doesn’t harden. Addition of excess water compromises the strength of the concrete.
Spalling is generally an aesthetic issue since only the upper finished portion of the concrete slab crumbles and exposes the rough stone aggregate beneath whereas the inner core of the slab remains more or less intact.
Such an issue can be taken care of with the help of a reputed and professional sidewalk contractor. With just a little bit of effort, your sidewalk will be in good stead for a long span of time. The most common method for repairing a spalled sidewalk is by applying cement stucco over the broken part of the sidewalk. Cement stucco is basically a mixture of Portland cement and sand that penetrates into the cracks and binds it together. Since Portland cement is the main component of the mixture, it should be added in correct proportion so that the sidewalk can withstand the abuse of foot traffic. The sand to be used by the sidewalk repair contractor is available in three varieties-fine, medium and coarse, but most contractors prefer the medium one since it gives a smooth and even look when the stucco dries.
