6 Ways to Identify When Your Concrete is Failing

Concrete is, in fact, one of the most durable pavement materials, but over time, it can develop issues that compromise its integrity.  Whether it’s a driveway, pad, parking lot, or commercial structure, recognizing the signs of failing concrete early can save you from costly repairs or potential safety hazards. 

1. Cracking

Cracks that appear in concrete are common, but not all cracks are cause for concern. However, if you notice wide or deep cracks, that could be an indicator of structural issues. The types of cracks you want to monitor and keep an eye out for include:

• Hairline cracks – usually cosmetic, but can let in water and become a problem later on
• Wide or deep cracks – these can suggest significant movement or foundation problems 
• Spiderweb cracks – often caused by rapid drying or poor curing

2. Spalling, Pitting, and Popouts (Surface Flaking and Chipping)

Spalling occurs when the concrete surface starts flaking, chipping, or peeling. This issue is often caused by moisture penetration of the surface or poor-quality materials. If left unaddressed, spalling can cause exposure of the aggregates and lead to even further deterioration. Pitting is the formation of small holes or depressions in the surface, while the popouts occur when small chunks of concrete break away.  These often occur due to a poor quality mix of concrete and exposure to de-icing salts.  

3. Discoloration and Staining

Unusual stains and/or discoloration can be an indicator of chemical reactions or water damage. Common cause include:

• Rust Stains – May indicate corroding reinforcement bars (rebar) inside the concrete. 
• Efflorescence  – White powdery deposits caused by water-soluble salts migrating to the surface.

4. Uneven or Sunken Concrete

If sections of the concrete appear to be sunken or uneven, it may be due to soil settling, erosion, or poor subgrade preparation.  This is another common issue in driveways, sidewalks, and patios.

5. Exposed or Corroded Reinforcement 

In reinforced concrete structures, the rebar should remain inside the concrete structure.  If you are seeing rebar, that alone is a sign that it has deteriorated significantly. Exposed rebar will begin to rust at an accelerated rate which will start to compromise any other concrete.

6. Hollow Sounds When Tapped

If you tap on the concrete and hear a hollow sound, it may be an indicator of delamination, where the surface layers have detached from the underlying structure.  This may occur in surfaces that are exposed to frequent heavy loads or improper bonding.

What to Do if Your Concrete is Failing

If you are noticing any of these, please take action to correct them immediately, and reach out to McConnell & Associates to schedule a FREE Evaluation. Concrete failure is a serious issue for both the structure integrity of the pavement and to the safety of the people who use it every day.  Regular inspections along with proactive maintenance will extend the lifespan of the pavement and prevent extensive, costly repairs.  Again, if you are unsure about the extent of your problem, please reach out to MAC, and we will evaluate your concrete pavement needs.  

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