What Causes Concrete to Crack?

Common Reasons in Southern Utah Construction

Concrete is one of the most durable building materials used in commercial construction, but it is not immune to cracking. In fact, cracking is one of the most common issues seen on job sites throughout Hurricane, St. George, and Southern Utah.

Understanding what causes concrete to crack can help property owners, developers, and contractors make better decisions during planning and construction.

Is It Normal for Concrete to Crack?

Yes, some level of cracking in concrete is normal. Concrete is a rigid material that naturally shrinks as it cures. Small hairline cracks often develop as part of this process and do not necessarily indicate a structural problem.

However, larger or uncontrolled cracks can signal deeper issues that need to be addressed.

The Most Common Causes of Concrete Cracking

Concrete cracks for a variety of reasons. Many of these factors are preventable with proper planning and construction practices.

1. Drying Shrinkage

As concrete cures, it loses moisture and shrinks. If this shrinkage is restrained by subgrade friction or structural elements, cracks can form.

This is one of the most common causes of cracking in both residential and commercial construction.

2. Temperature Changes

Southern Utah experiences significant temperature swings, especially between day and night. These fluctuations cause concrete to expand and contract.

Without proper control joints, this movement can lead to cracking.

3. Improper Water Content

Adding too much water to a concrete mix weakens the final product. While it may make the mix easier to work with, excess water increases shrinkage and reduces strength.

This often leads to surface cracking and long term durability issues.

4. Poor Subgrade Preparation

The ground beneath the concrete plays a critical role in its performance.

If the soil is not properly compacted or shifts over time, the concrete above it can crack due to uneven support.

In areas like Hurricane and St. George, soil conditions can vary significantly, making proper preparation essential.

5. Lack of Control Joints

Control joints are intentional weak points designed to guide where cracks occur.

Without them, concrete will crack randomly as it shrinks and moves.

6. Overloading the Concrete

Concrete is designed to handle specific load capacities. Placing excessive weight on a slab can cause it to crack.

This is especially important in commercial construction where heavy equipment or storage loads are involved.

7. Rapid Drying Conditions

Hot, dry climates like Southern Utah can cause concrete to dry too quickly.

When moisture evaporates faster than the concrete can cure, it increases the likelihood of cracking.

Types of Concrete Cracks

Not all cracks are the same. Identifying the type of crack can help determine the cause and severity.

Hairline Cracks

Small, shallow cracks that are typically cosmetic.

Settlement Cracks

Caused by movement in the soil beneath the concrete.

Structural Cracks

Larger cracks that may indicate a serious issue with load bearing capacity.

Expansion Cracks

Result from temperature related movement without proper joints.

How Southern Utah Conditions Affect Concrete

Local climate and soil conditions play a major role in concrete performance.

Heat and Low Humidity

Accelerate drying and increase shrinkage risk.

Expansive Soils

Can shift over time, leading to settlement cracks.

Freeze Thaw Cycles

Although less frequent, they can still impact durability in colder months.

Working with a contractor familiar with Southern Utah conditions is critical for long lasting results.

Why Understanding Concrete Cracking Matters

Cracking is not just a cosmetic issue. It can affect:

  • Structural integrity
  • Water intrusion
  • Long term maintenance costs

Early understanding helps prevent costly repairs down the road.

How to Minimize Concrete Cracking

While some cracking is inevitable, proper construction practices can significantly reduce the risk.

Key strategies include:

  • Using the correct concrete mix
  • Installing control joints
  • Preparing and compacting the subgrade
  • Managing curing conditions

Choosing the Right Commercial Contractor

Concrete performance depends heavily on the quality of installation.

A qualified contractor will:

  • Understand local soil and climate conditions
  • Use proper mixing and curing techniques
  • Plan joint placement carefully

Common, But Manageable

Concrete cracking is a common but manageable issue in commercial construction. By understanding the causes and working with experienced professionals, property owners in Southern Utah can ensure stronger, longer lasting results.

Tisha Hiatt

Director, Home Office

Tisha brings more than 20 years of experience in effectively overseeing administrative operations. She is known for her attention to detail and excellent communication skills, which ensure smooth day-to-day operations and foster a positive workplace environment. She is a proven leader with a wealth of experience in managing home office operations.

Her skills also include maintaining accurate records, managing accounts payable and receivable, and making sure that financial transactions are processed efficiently and accurately. She is also dedicated to supporting the company’s success through effective HR practices by fostering a positive and inclusive work culture through implantation of company policy and structure.

Dedicated to cultivating a positive and dynamic workplace, Tisha offers unparalleled support to both colleagues and clients, elevating her indispensable role within the executive team.

Britton Long

Area Director, FL

Britton is a seasoned leader in the commercial construction industry, bringing more than 10 years of experience to his role as Area Director. With a proven track record of success in overseeing projects, he excels in driving operational excellence and delivering exceptional results. His strategic vision and collaborative approach ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.

He excels in coordinating teams, managing timelines, and ensuring project goals are met with efficiency and precision. He is dedicated to delivering results that exceed client expectations while maintaining a focus on quality and adherence to budgetary constraints.

Britton’s steadfast dedication to nurturing a culture of innovation and ongoing advancement establishes him as a respected leader within the industry and a cornerstone of our Florida operations.

Jeremy Taggart

Lead Estimator

With 10 years of experience in commercial construction estimating, Jeremy is a seasoned professional known for his meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive understanding of project cost analysis.

As the lead estimator, he plays a pivotal role in guiding the preconstruction phase, leveraging his expertise to accurately assess project requirements and develop competitive bids. He excels in collaborating with project stakeholders to ensure accurate budgeting and forecasting, ultimately contributing to the success of each project.

Jeremy is a vital asset to our executive team, leveraging state-of-the-art estimating software and industry-leading practices to optimize workflows and provide accurate cost estimates. His unwavering dedication to quality and efficiency allows him to consistently surpass project deadlines and exceed client expectations. Jeremy’s exceptional skills not only cultivate strong relationships but also ensure clarity and understanding across all our projects.

Craig Riddle

Director, Business Development

Craig has been in the construction industry for over 37 years and is well versed in the aspects of the construction industry. He is a dynamic leader who possesses a strong track record in building and nurturing relationships with clients and stakeholders. Craig excels in developing tailored solutions to meet client needs and enhance overall business performance.

He possesses a strong track record of identifying and capitalizing on new business opportunities, leveraging his market expertise and innovative approach to expand the organization’s reach and revenue streams.

Craig is dedicated to driving sustainable growth and creating value for the organization through proactive business development initiatives, making him an integral part of the executive team.

KC Peisley

COO

KC is an accomplished and results-driven professional and serves as our Chief Operating Officer (COO). His just under 30 years of experience provides a proven track record in the construction industry and brings a wealth of experience and strategic leadership to the executive team.

As COO, KC is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the company, ensuring efficiency and excellence in project execution. KC has a keen understanding of construction processes and a commitment to quality.

In addition, KC has a strong background in project management, resource optimization, and risk mitigation. He collaborates closely with the team to streamline workflows, enhance operational performance, and uphold the highest standards of safety and compliance.

KC’s extensive knowledge makes him a very effective leader and he is an integral part of the company’s leadership, contributing to our reputation for delivering outstanding construction projects.

Spence Richins

Founder/CEO

Known for his hands-on approach and dedication to quality, Spence is involved in every phase of a project, from initial concept to final delivery. He places a strong emphasis on collaboration, fostering a company culture that values teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to exceeding client expectations.

With a clear vision for the future, Spence continues to lead Grass Creek towards new horizons, leveraging his expertise to navigate the evolving landscape of commercial construction and drive sustainable growth. This is evidenced by Grass Creek’s recent expansion to Florida in December 2022, where profitable projects are currently underway, as well as more in negotiation, that will continue to add to Grass Creek’s overall profitability.

Since 2014, Spence has played a pivotal role as a silent equity partner at AMC Concrete, based in Las Vegas, Nevada. AMC Concrete is renowned for its expertise in concrete tilt-up projects, and this strategic partnership has enriched Spence’s extensive understanding and proficiency in the construction industry.

Spence’s unwavering commitment is not only reflected in the quality of the delivered projects, but also in the enduring relationships built with clients who have come to rely on his expertise. As a result, Spence’s impact extends beyond individual projects, creating a legacy of trust, quality, and lasting partnerships within the professional landscape.