Cracks in concrete can be dentrimental for a building project. In this post we'll be talk about the causes and concrete cracks, and the best practices and techniques you can use to prevent them.

WHAT IS CRACKING IN CONCRETE
Cracks in concrete are breaks in the internal bond of the concrete. The concrete will normally shrink over time as it cures and dries out, creating stresses in the surface of the concrete. The concrete curing process is a chemical reaction involving the cement and the water in the concrete. Cracks in concrete can be initiated by an imperfection in the mix design, by some deficiency in the curing process, or by some defect in the construction process.

CAUSES OF CRACKING IN CONCRETE
Mix design: If the mix design is flawed, the concrete will be more prone to shrinkage and cracking. - Use of unbalanced concrete: [/b]If the ratio of cement, sand, and water is incorrect, the concrete will be more prone to shrinkage and cracking. - [b]The concrete curing process: If the curing process is not managed properly, the concrete will be more prone to shrinkage and cracking. - Construction defects: If the construction process is flawed, the concrete will be more prone to shrinkage and cracking. - Poor selection of materials: If the materials used in construction are of poor quality, the concrete will be more prone to shrinkage and cracking.

HOW TO PREVENT CRACKS IN CONCRETE
The best way to prevent cracks in concrete is through proper mix design, the use of quality concrete materials, and appropriate construction practices is through -
1. Mix design: Adhere to a proper mix design to prevent cracks in concrete.
2. Use of unbalanced concrete: Make sure that the ratio of cement, sand, and water is appropriate, and that they are of good quality.
3. The curing process: Manage the curing process so that the concrete reaches its maximum strength as soon as possible.
4. Control joints: Control joints are crucial for large slab to avoid concrete shrinkage that occurs as temperatures change becausse water is used up in the hydration process.
5. Add reinforcements: Add steel reinforcements in a grid pattern and for smaller projects you can add wire mesh when pouring the concrete to improve strength and reduce cracking.
6. Compacting: Compact the base before you pour the concrete, the base under the concrete needs to be compacted or it could settle and create a void.

TECHNIQUES AND STRATEGIES TO REPAIR CRACKS IN CONCRETE

1. Surface grinding: Surface grinding can be used to remove the top layer of concrete with cracks, and to prepare the surface for the application of a new layer of concrete. -
2. Grouting: Grouting is a process that uses a cementitious material to fill the cracks in concrete. -
3. Filling the cracks with cement: The developer may fill the cracks with cementitious materials to reduce the load on the already stressed concrete. -
4. Fillers and tie-backs: Fillers and tie-backs are materials that are used to prevent further cracking.

If you liked this article then please visit our website for architectural building plans and construction tips & tricks
https://nigeriahousedesigns.com/the-best-way-to-prevent-cracks-in-concrete-the-ultimate-guide/