cracked concrete

Epoxy vs. Polyurethane vs. Replacement: What’s Best for Cracked Concrete?

Quick note: Anchor Crete does not perform residential foundation crack injection. We specialize in new flatwork and tear-out & replacement for driveways, patios, sidewalks, parking lots, shop floors, and more. This guide explains when epoxy or polyurethane injection might make sense—and when replacement is the smarter long-term fix. For what we do offer, explore our Residential Concrete Services and Commercial Concrete Services.

Understanding the Problem: Types of Concrete Cracks

Before you pick a repair method, identify what you’re looking at:

  • Hairline cracks – often from shrinkage during curing.
  • Surface cracks – from minor movement or wear.
  • Structural cracks – can signal shifting, settling, or moisture infiltration.
  • Active cracks – still moving/spreading.
  • Dormant cracks – have stopped progressing.

Why this matters: The choice between epoxy, polyurethane, or full replacement depends on whether the crack is structural vs. non-structural, active vs. dormant, and whether water is present. If you’re weighing a bigger fix, this companion post can help: Concrete: Repair or Replace?.

Epoxy Injection: Strong, Rigid, Structural

What it is: A two-part resin that cures extremely strong—often stronger than the surrounding concrete—creating a rigid bond.

Best for:

  • Structural cracks where movement has stopped
  • Foundation or slab cracks that must be restored to “one piece”
    Dry conditions (ongoing moisture undermines adhesion)

Pros

  • High compressive/tensile strength
  • Permanent structural bond
  • Chemical/oil resistance

Cons

  • Poor choice for moving cracks
  • Requires dry substrate and thorough prep
  • Rigid—doesn’t accommodate movement

Bottom line: Epoxy is the go-to when structural integrity must be restored and the crack is dormant.

Polyurethane Injection: Flexible & Water-Tight

What it is: A two-part material that expands and cures into a flexible, rubber-like seal—great at chasing and sealing cracks, even when damp.

Best for:

  • Active cracks that open/close with seasons or loads
  • Leaking cracks in basements or retaining walls
  • Areas with ongoing moisture or dynamic movement

Pros

  • Expands to fill voids (even when wet)
  • Flexible over time; excellent waterproofing
  • Fast cure; minimal downtime

Cons

  • Not a structural reinforcement
  • Lower compressive strength than epoxy
  • May need maintenance in high UV/wear zones

Bottom line: Choose polyurethane when water control and movement are the priorities—not structural stitching.

Side-by-Side at a Glance

Where Replacement Beats Injection (What Anchor Crete Actually Does)

There are plenty of cases where injection is a band-aid—and replacement is the long-term, value-smart move, especially for flatwork like driveways, patios, sidewalks, and parking lots. If your slab has widespread cracking, heaving/settling, severe spalling, or chronic drainage issues, replacement lets us address the base, reinforcement, joints, and water management so the fix actually lasts.

What that looks like with Anchor Crete:

  • Tear-out & removal of failed concrete
  • Prep & pour with the right base, reinforcement, air-entrainment, and jointing
  • Professional finishing & curing for durability and appearance

Learn more about our process on the Services page, or browse our Residential and Commercial offerings.

What About DIY Crack Kits?

DIY kits can be fine for cosmetic hairline cracks. But using the wrong product—say, epoxy on an actively leaking or moving crack—can make things worse. If there’s structural concern or water intrusion, talk to a specialist. For flatwork that’s failing, we can quote tear-out & replacement for a clean, predictable outcome: Contact Anchor Crete.

For Commercial & Industrial Facilities

While we don’t offer residential foundation injection, Anchor Crete does handle heavy-duty industrial/commercial surface repairs and new flatwork. If you’re dealing with spalls, joint deterioration, or high-traffic wear in warehouses or loading docks, start here:

Local Conditions Matter (So Does Maintenance)

Northeast Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycles and deicing salts can accelerate damage. Keep slabs in shape with these guides:

Service Area

We pour and replace concrete across Tuscarawas, Knox, Coshocton, Holmes, Wayne, Ashland, and Stark Counties. See our Locations page for coverage details and local examples.

Final Thoughts

  • Epoxy: best for structural, dormant cracks.

  • Polyurethane: best for leaking or active cracks where flexibility is key.

  • Replacement: best when the slab is broadly compromised—or when you want a true reset with proper base, reinforcement, and drainage.

If you’re weighing options for a driveway, patio, sidewalk, parking lot, or shop floor, we’ll help you choose the most cost-effective, long-lasting path. 

Contact Anchor Crete.

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Created On: 

August 15, 2025