Solid Exteriors – Expert Concrete Contractor in Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Your driveway is more than just a place to park your car—it’s a key part of your home’s curb appeal and functionality. Over time, concrete driveways face a lot of wear and tear, especially in Eau Claire, where freezing winters and hot summers can be tough on concrete surfaces.
So, how do you know when it’s time for a repair—or a full replacement? At Solid Exteriors, we’ve laid and repaired hundreds of concrete driveways in Eau Claire and surrounding areas. Here’s what we tell every homeowner to watch out for:
1. Cracks Are Widening or Multiplying
It’s normal for concrete to develop small hairline cracks over time. But if those cracks are getting wider, deeper, or spreading across large sections of your driveway, it’s a sign of structural problems.
Why it happens:
- Freeze-thaw cycles common in Eau Claire winters
- Poor initial installation
- Heavy vehicles or shifting soil
When to act:
- Small, isolated cracks can often be sealed or patched.
- Large, spreading cracks may require full replacement.
2. Uneven or Sunken Areas
If you notice parts of your driveway are sloping, sinking, or feel uneven when you drive over them, that’s a sign of a failing foundation beneath the concrete.
Causes include:
- Erosion or water drainage issues
- Weak or unstable sub-base
- Soil movement beneath the surface
What to do:
- Slab jacking or mudjacking may lift certain areas.
- In severe cases, complete replacement is the safest option.
3. Pooling Water or Drainage Problems
Standing water on your driveway after rain? That’s a big red flag. A well-installed concrete driveway should allow for proper water runoff. Pooling can lead to even more cracking, algae buildup, and slippery surfaces.
Especially in Eau Claire, water that freezes during winter can worsen the damage as it expands within cracks.
Fix it fast:
- Minor slope issues may be fixed with overlays.
- Long-term pooling often requires full resurfacing or re-grading.
4. Chipping, Flaking, or Spalling Concrete
If your driveway looks like it’s peeling or flaking away on the surface, you’re seeing what’s called spalling—and it only gets worse with time.
Why it happens:
- Freeze-thaw stress
- Poor concrete mix or finishing
- Rock salt and harsh chemicals during winter
Solution:
- For small spots, resurfacing may help.
- For widespread surface loss, replacement is usually more cost-effective.
5. Your Driveway Is Over 20 Years Old
Even with the best care, most concrete driveways last 20–30 years—and that’s with ideal installation and maintenance. In Eau Claire’s climate, your driveway is exposed to snowplows, de-icing salts, and temperature extremes year after year.
If your driveway is:
- Showing multiple signs of wear
- Dated, stained, or crumbling
- Hard to clean or maintain
It may be time to consider replacement. A new concrete driveway can enhance your property value and improve everyday functionality.
Need a Professional Opinion? Call Solid Exteriors in Eau Claire
Not sure if your driveway can be saved or if it’s time to start fresh? Let the pros at Solid Exteriors take a look. We offer free, honest inspections and customized recommendations based on your budget and goals.
Concrete repair & replacement
High-performance materials
Eau Claire’s trusted exterior contractor
📞 Call us today at (608) 323-0625
🌐 Schedule online at https://solidexteriorswi.com
📍 Proudly serving Eau Claire and nearby communities
Solid Exteriors – Durable Solutions, Expert Contrator in Eau Claire.