I have a concrete problem... I built a new house last year and the last thing I had done was to have my driveway concreted so there would be no heavy traffic on it. We actually moved in and lived here nearly a month before it was poured. It was poured in June of last year.
The Problem: About 30 days after it was finished (have photo's on July 4 1999) I started noticing cracks 1 to 2 inches from the expansion joint. it continued to get worse and then I noticed larger cracks (at a different location) 10 to 12 inches from the joint which now has started showing 1/2 inch separation. It's now chipping out in small rock like chunks.
I paid "extra" to have a better grade of concrete. Instead of the standard 3000psi mix in this area. I elected to go with the 3500psi. I have 2X4 treated expansion joints. I have 1/2 inch rebar on 2 foot centers tied and lifted up into the center of the concrete before finishing. The contractor notched the 2X4 and let the rebar run into the next section about 1 foot. I expected some hairline cracking in the future but nothing like what I have. I can e-mail photo's if this would help...
I have laid awake at night wondering what to do about this. It's a shame to work hard and sacrifice for 5 years to save to build our dream home to have something like this to happen. I don't know who's responsible, the contractor, the concrete plant, or NO one? I didn't have any idea who to call. I called the contractor right after I started noticing the cracks and he stated that he'd come by and look at it but I never heard from him.
I would appreciate any advice or direction you can offer. Can it be repaired? I have put this off long enough because I was afraid I'd have to file suit on someone to get something done, but I am about ready to do anything I need to because If haven't found peace with by now I probably never will
Thanks, BG.
A few points:
1. What is the spacing between the joints?
2. How much wet curing did the concrete get?
3. Whose idea was it to extend the rebars through the joints? Does he/she have good malpractice insurance?
Sounds like that was one of those "the way to hell is paved with good intentions..."
You did everything right (strength, rebar, joints...) and then negated the whole thing by extending the rebar through the joint. It practically canceled the joint.
Any time we want to extend reinforcement through joints we use smooth dowels, greased, so that there is no bond to the concrete.
The fact that the cracks started next to the joint points this way. Nature needed a joint there, and since you canceled the original one, it created a substitute.
As for what to do. If the concrete can be salvaged, you should hire a concrete cutter, and saw the joints through the rebar. Once you do that you can patch the cracks. If the damage is already too large you may have to remove and replace.
Remember that my analysis is based on your description. There may be other things you missed.
Feel free to send me that photo and any other information regarding your location and the questions above.
Good luck,