Concrete is built to last, but in a city like Tempe, AZ—with its scorching summers, monsoon rains, and shifting desert soil—even the strongest concrete can show signs of wear over time. Identifying damage early on can save you from costly repairs and protect your property’s safety and value.
At Legendary Concrete – Tempe, we specialize in concrete solutions designed for the local climate. Here are the top five signs your concrete may need repair or full replacement.
1. Widening or Spreading Cracks
It’s normal for concrete to develop small cracks, but if they continue to grow, branch out, or deepen, it may signal structural problems. Ground movement, poor installation, or years of wear can all contribute.
This is especially common in concrete driveway and concrete patio surfaces, where stress from vehicles or outdoor exposure speeds up deterioration. While minor cracks can be sealed, expanding ones often require full replacement.
2. Uneven or Sunken Slabs
If parts of your concrete look uneven, sloped, or sunken, it may be caused by shifting soil or erosion underneath the slab. This is a serious issue that can become a trip hazard or cause drainage problems around your home.
You’ll often notice this with concrete sidewalks, where one panel rises or sinks more than another. Professional leveling or a replacement slab may be necessary to fix the problem long-term.
3. Surface Flaking and Pitting
When the top layer of your concrete begins to peel or pit, it’s usually due to exposure to moisture, heat, or chemicals. In Tempe, rapid temperature changes after rain or during the summer can cause concrete to expand and contract, leading to surface wear.
Areas like stamped concrete patios or exposed concrete slabs may start showing signs of pitting or flaking first. While some surfaces can be resurfaced, more severe cases may require replacement.
4. Standing Water or Poor Drainage
If water collects on your concrete after rain or irrigation, that’s a red flag. Concrete should be poured with a slight slope to allow for proper runoff. Pooled water can seep into the surface, speed up damage, and even compromise your home’s foundation.
This is especially noticeable on older concrete patio installations and driveways that may have settled over time.
5. Rust Stains or Exposed Rebar
Rust-colored stains or visible metal inside your concrete are serious signs of internal damage. This typically means that water has reached the steel reinforcement (rebar) inside, causing it to rust and weaken the structure.
We often see this in aging retaining walls or older concrete slabs where cracks have gone untreated for years. When the rebar is exposed, a full replacement is usually the safest solution.
Concrete Services Available in Tempe
At Legendary Concrete – Tempe, we offer a complete range of concrete services to meet your needs. Whether you need a new concrete driveway, custom concrete patio, or help with concrete demolition, we’re here to help.
We also specialize in installing concrete sidewalks, stamped concrete, concrete slabs, masonry, pavers, and retaining walls and more. Every project is handled with precision and attention to detail, ensuring long-lasting results for your property.