In a city like Joliet, IL, where freezing winters and heavy rainfalls are part of life, the wear and tear on concrete is inevitable. From residential sidewalks to commercial driveways, the signs of aging concrete can creep in slowly—or show up overnight. As a property owner, knowing when your concrete needs attention can save you thousands in future repairs.
At Legendary Concrete – Joliet, IL, we help homeowners and businesses recognize the early warning signs. Whether it’s a small crack in a concrete slab or major structural damage on a patio, timely action can make all the difference.
1. Cracks That Are Spreading or Deepening
One of the most noticeable signs that your concrete may be in trouble is cracking. While hairline cracks may be harmless, larger ones that widen or spider out across the surface indicate deeper issues. In Joliet’s climate, freeze-thaw cycles and shifting ground can make cracks worse over time.
If you’re seeing cracks in your driveway, sidewalks, or even stamped concrete patios, they could be a sign that the concrete is no longer structurally sound. Depending on the size and depth, you may be able to patch them, but if the damage is extensive, replacing the slab may be more cost-effective in the long run.
2. Uneven or Sunken Concrete Surfaces
Has your concrete patio started to slope or sink on one side? Are there trip hazards forming on your walkways or driveway? Uneven concrete can be caused by soil erosion, poor initial compaction, or water drainage problems.
In areas like Joliet where groundwater movement is common, you may find sections of your concrete slabs settling unevenly. This is not just a cosmetic issue—it’s a safety hazard. It can also indicate that the base beneath the concrete is unstable. If multiple areas are affected, it may be time to consider demolition and replacement to ensure long-term stability.
3. Flaking, Spalling, or Surface Deterioration
Concrete is strong, but it’s not immune to surface damage. Spalling (chipping and flaking of the top layer) can occur when moisture infiltrates the concrete and then freezes, causing it to expand and break apart. This is especially common in Joliet’s winter months.
You’ll often notice spalling near entrances, on concrete steps, or on decorative surfaces like stamped concrete patios. Over time, these areas become eyesores and lose their protective top layer, leaving the underlying structure exposed. When flaking affects a large area or is getting worse, resurfacing or full replacement may be the best fix.
4. Water Pooling or Improper Drainage
If water is pooling on your concrete surfaces after a storm, it’s a sign that the slope or drainage was not installed properly—or has shifted due to settling. Standing water doesn’t just look bad; it speeds up concrete degradation by promoting cracks, mold growth, and freeze-thaw damage.
Proper drainage is critical around concrete driveways, sidewalks, patios, and especially retaining walls. If water can’t flow away efficiently, it will find its way into the concrete, damaging the material from within. Depending on the severity, fixing this issue may require regrading or replacing the affected sections.
5. Rust Stains and Exposed Rebar
Concrete that’s reinforced with steel bars (rebar) is stronger, but if water gets into the slab and reaches the rebar, it can cause corrosion. Rust stains appearing on the surface or the sight of exposed metal means the concrete is losing its strength from the inside out.
This kind of damage often appears in older slabs or in areas like sidewalks, retaining walls, and even large driveways that have gone years without proper sealing. Unfortunately, when rebar is rusting, patching isn’t enough—you’ll likely need to replace the affected section to restore the concrete’s full integrity.
Why Joliet Property Owners Trust Legendary Concrete
We understand the challenges that Joliet’s climate and soil present. That’s why we don’t cut corners—we evaluate each property to determine the best approach, from proper base preparation to high-quality concrete mixes and long-lasting finishes.
Our goal is simple: durable, beautiful concrete work that stands up to Illinois weather and looks great for years to come. Whether you’re repairing an aging patio or replacing a cracked driveway, we deliver craftsmanship you can count on.