Facts about Concrete:
- Concrete ranks as the second most consumed substance globally, trailing only water.
- If the cement industry were a nation, it would stand as the third-largest emitter of CO2, following the US and China.
- The cement industry produces nearly 8.9 billion tons of material every two years, surpassing the cumulative production of plastic over the past six decades.
- In 2012, concrete production accounted for nine percent of global industrial water usage.
- By 2050, an estimated 75 percent of the water required for concrete production will be concentrated in water-stressed regions.
- Typically, old concrete is disposed of in landfills when replaced with new installations.
While concrete production’s environmental impact is undeniable, homeowners can adopt sustainable practices to lessen their contribution.
Repair Your Concrete, Don’t Replace It:
Reducing the use of new concrete is imperative for environmental preservation. Repairing damaged concrete slabs in driveways, patios, sidewalks, and pool decks presents a sustainable solution.
Concrete repair options include mudjacking and polyurethane foam lifting (PolyLevel™ being a preferred brand). Mudjacking entails injecting a slurry of Portland cement, soil, and water beneath sunken slabs to raise them. However, this method is temporary, messy, and can exacerbate settling issues.
Polyurethane foam lifting offers a superior alternative. This process involves injecting a lightweight fluid material underneath sunken slabs, which expands and hardens, stabilizing the soil and providing a permanent fix. Unlike mudjacking, it leaves minimal visible ports and addresses underlying soil issues.
Furthermore, replacing concrete entails disruptive processes, including jackhammering old concrete, removal, and curing of new concrete, rendering the area unusable for an extended period.
Preserve Your Concrete, Preserve the Planet:
By repairing rather than replacing concrete, homeowners can enhance curb appeal and property value while reducing environmental impact.
If you are ready to repair your concrete, TerraFirma is here to help! Schedule a FREE consultation with us today!