Not sure if you should repair or replace your cracked concrete floor in Westmont, IL? Learn how to assess the damage and decide which option is right for your home.
Cracks in concrete floors are common in Westmont, IL, especially in basements and garages. The primary reason lies beneath the surface—our region’s clay-heavy soil expands when wet and contracts during dry spells. This constant shifting creates pressure under and around your home’s foundation. Add in the impact of freeze-thaw cycles and occasional groundwater pressure, and it’s no surprise that slabs develop stress fractures over time.
While many cracks are harmless, some can signal deeper problems that need professional attention. Knowing how to tell the difference is key to deciding whether you should repair the damage—or replace the entire floor.
Hairline cracks are typically cosmetic. These narrow fractures often appear shortly after the concrete cures, caused by minor shrinkage or settlement. They usually don’t affect the structural integrity of the floor and can be left alone or sealed to prevent moisture absorption.
Wider cracks, especially those that exceed a quarter inch, should raise concern—particularly if they continue to grow or show signs of vertical displacement. If the floor is uneven or one side of the crack is raised higher than the other, it could mean that the underlying soil is shifting or eroding.
Some cracks start to let in moisture, especially during wet weather. If water seeps through after rain, that’s a sign that the hydrostatic pressure beneath your slab is increasing. In older homes with no moisture barrier beneath the floor, this can eventually lead to mold, deterioration, and interior damage.
In many cases, repairing a cracked concrete floor is a cost-effective and lasting solution. If the crack is minor, stable, and hasn’t allowed water into the basement, sealing or patching is usually enough. Contractors may use epoxy or polyurethane injection to fill and bond the crack. In slightly larger areas, resurfacing the slab can restore both appearance and function.
Repairs also make sense when the rest of the floor is sound. If the slab is level, strong, and not showing signs of settling or crumbling, there’s no need to remove and replace it.
There are times when repairs simply won’t hold—or would be more expensive in the long run than starting fresh. If the concrete floor is showing widespread cracking, large areas of heaving or sinking, or if the surface is brittle and breaking apart, replacement is likely the smarter option.
Water intrusion is another red flag. If water consistently rises through floor cracks or pools on the surface after a storm, sealing alone won’t fix the issue. In these situations, it’s important to address the source of the pressure—often by installing a drainage system or sump pump—before pouring new concrete.
Replacing a concrete floor typically involves breaking up and removing the damaged slab, correcting the soil or drainage conditions beneath, and pouring new concrete. It’s a bigger investment, but one that provides long-term peace of mind when structural integrity is at stake.
Many homes in Westmont were built decades ago, and the construction practices at the time often did not include moisture barriers or adequate drainage. That means many basement floors were vulnerable from the start. If your home has a history of water problems, cracking, or uneven flooring, it’s a good idea to have a professional evaluate whether the existing slab can be salvaged or needs replacement.
In newer homes, cracking is often a result of seasonal soil movement. In these cases, sealing and reinforcement may be all that’s needed—especially if proper drainage systems are already in place.
At Accu-Dry, we understand the specific challenges Westmont homeowners face when it comes to concrete floors. Our approach starts with a free inspection, where we assess the size and pattern of the cracks, the condition of the slab, and any underlying issues like drainage or soil movement.
If repairs are appropriate, we’ll recommend solutions that stop further damage and restore your floor’s integrity. If replacement is necessary, we’ll guide you through the process with clear timelines, transparent pricing, and options that fit your budget.
We also offer interior waterproofing systems and sump pump installations if moisture is contributing to the problem.
Not sure if your concrete floor needs repair or replacement? Don’t guess—get answers from a team that knows what to look for.
Contact Accu-Dry today to schedule your free inspection. We’ll help you protect your foundation, prevent moisture damage, and restore your basement or garage floor with confidence.
