How Much Does Concrete Repair Cost in Boston?

Factors Affecting Crack Repair Expenses

Various factors determine the overall crack repair prices across different Boston neighborhoods. The width and depth of cracks will dictate the amount of repair material needed, while the amount of labor required for surface preparation will directly impact the cost. Furthermore, repair jobs in higher-end Boston areas such as the Back Bay or Financial District may require permits and additional coordination.

Boston’s freeze-thaw cycles wreak havoc on the surrounding area of that concrete. These surfaces experience a great deal of stress because of temperature fluctuations, causing the concrete to expand and contract. So, contractors tend to think about seasonal weather patterns when selecting a repair mix to provide the best possible solution. And if a job requires permits for shutting down streets to allow for equipment to be brought into place, you may incur additional city fees.

Comprehensive Concrete Leveling and Lifting

If your concrete has sunken or is not level, it will be necessary to lift it to the proper elevation to function properly. Mudjacking is a method used to lift concrete. Mudjacking prices vary based on the amount of settlement and the difficulty of accessing the area where the concrete is located. On average, mudjacking a typical two-car driveway costs anywhere from $600 to $1,200, depending on the amount of settlement and other factors in your specific Boston neighborhood.

However, poly-jacking is a newer method compared to traditional mudjacking. This method offers greater strength and accuracy than traditional mudjacking. Poly-jacking is also a more expensive option but offers longer-lasting results. On average, poly-jacking costs $5 to $15 per square foot. So, if you live in a historic neighborhood, which is close to a landmark such as Fenway Park or Cambridge Common, this would be a great alternative to traditional mudjacking.

Structural Repair Considerations

If your home is experiencing severe settlement issues, it may be indicative of a larger problem, which could be related to the foundation of your home. To accurately diagnose this type of issue, you will want to hire a structural engineer to inspect the condition of your home’s foundation. The cost of hiring a structural engineer varies depending on the location of your home and the size of the area to be inspected. Typically, the cost ranges from $100 to $220 per hour; however, it will give you the peace of mind of knowing that you are making the correct decision in addressing the structural concerns of your home. Most cities require building permits and inspections before performing structural repairs. As a result, the total cost of the repair work may include the cost of the permit (typically $150 to $400) as well as the cost of the inspection (also typically $150 to $400).

Tree root damage is a common occurrence in many residential areas of Boston, particularly in neighborhoods such as Jamaica Plain. When tree roots cause damage to your concrete, it may be necessary to perform specialized repairs to remove the damaged roots and stabilize the soil beneath the concrete. The cost of removing tree roots can range anywhere from $300 to $800, depending on the extent of the damage. Drainage issues may also arise as a result of improper installation of French drains. Improperly installed French drains can lead to costly repairs, including lifting the concrete slab, repairing damaged pipes, and installing new drainage systems. As a result, it is essential to consider drainage issues in addition to the cost of lifting the concrete.

Spalling occurs when the top layer of concrete begins to deteriorate, creating holes or craters. If left unaddressed, spalling can create safety hazards, such as exposing underground electrical cables or piping. Spalling repair can range in cost from $3 to $5 per square foot, depending on the severity of the damage and the complexity of the repair. If the damage is widespread, the cost can increase dramatically. In extreme cases, the cost of replacing the entire driveway can exceed $1,800 to $4,200.

Preparing the surface of the driveway is a significant portion of the cost associated with repairing spalling. To prepare the surface, the contractor may need to grind or shot-blast the driveway, which can cost between $35 to $110 per hour, depending on the contractor and the equipment being used. After preparing the surface, the contractor will install a new layer of material to fill the holes and gaps created by the spalling. Once the new material is applied, the contractor will apply a protective coating to protect the new material and extend the lifespan of the driveway.

Walkway and Sidewalk Maintenance

Sidewalks and walkways are also subject to the same types of damage and wear and tear as driveways. In fact, sidewalks and walkways receive more traffic than driveways do, making them prone to cracking and breaking. Repairing sidewalks and walkways can range in cost from $726 to $2,485, depending on the severity of the damage and whether or not parts need to be replaced. Neighborhoods such as Beacon Hill may require specialty work and permits at an additional cost of $1 to $5 per square foot.

All municipalities in the Boston area have specific regulations regarding sidewalk and walkway repairs. Permits are typically required for larger jobs, and in some cases, the Public Works Department must approve the plans. The cost of obtaining a permit can range from $50 to $200, depending on the municipality and the type of repair. Additionally, inspectors will visit the site to verify that the repairs meet code, and their fee can range from $100 to $200, depending on the type of repair and the inspector.

Logistics and Location Factors

The cost of transporting heavy equipment and materials to and from a construction site can add to the overall cost of a repair job. Some neighborhoods in Boston are very congested and difficult to navigate, especially in historic districts. Material delivery to remote or congested locations can add $160 to $340 to the project expenses for concrete truck access. Hand-mixing of materials and transportation of specialized equipment can add additional labor hours to the project.

Preventative Maintenance Strategies

Regularly sealing the surface of your concrete will extend its life and reduce the number of repairs that you will need to make over the years. Many homeowners seal their concrete every year. The cost of sealing the surface of your concrete will depend on the size of the area to be sealed, but the average cost is about $0.10 to $0.16 per square foot. While sealing may seem like a relatively simple task, it is a process that requires the right tools and knowledge to complete correctly. Sealers can be purchased at hardware stores and online, and the price will vary depending on the brand and type. Many homeowners prefer to hire a professional to perform the task of sealing, especially if they are unsure of how to complete the task themselves.

Repairing expansion joints will also save homeowners money in the long run. Expansion joints are designed to allow for the movement and contraction of concrete slabs. Over time, the seals in the expansion joints can break, allowing water to seep under the slab and cause further damage. If left unchecked, the damage caused by water seeping under the slab can lead to costly structural repairs. Professional expansion joint sealing can cost anywhere from $2 to $5 per linear foot, depending on the type of sealant used and the complexity of the repair. Replacing the sealant can cost anywhere from $3 to $8 per linear foot, depending on the type of material used and the size of the joint.

DIY versus Professional Installation

When deciding whether to do a DIY repair job or to hire a professional to complete the job, homeowners need to consider the cost of materials versus the cost of labor. While DIY repair kits are available at hardware stores and online, and are generally inexpensive (ranging from $5 to $15), they may not last as long as a professional repair job. Additionally, if a homeowner does a poor job, the repair may fail quickly, leading to additional repair costs down the line. Hiring a professional to complete the job will guarantee a warranty on the repair and ensure that the job is completed correctly.

A professional contractor will have the right tools and equipment to complete the job efficiently and effectively. Labor costs will vary depending on the contractor and the location of the job, but on average, a professional contractor will charge anywhere from $50 to $100 per hour for labor. Larger or more complicated structural repair jobs will obviously require the services of a professional contractor. Not only will hiring a professional ensure that the job is completed correctly, but it will also provide homeowners with a safe working environment and ensure compliance with local building codes.

Assessing the Damage to Your Property

Before choosing the right repair solution for your property, it is essential to assess the damage. Cosmetic damage to a driveway is typically a minor problem that can be repaired with basic surface treatments. However, structural damage to a driveway or sidewalk may require more extensive repairs. Having a professional contractor evaluate the damage will provide homeowners with a better understanding of the options available to them. Choosing the right repair option now will ultimately save homeowners money in the long run. Considering the long-term benefits of high-quality repairs and durable materials is an investment in the value and integrity of your property.

In conclusion, assessing damage to your property, evaluating the options, considering the cost, and choosing the right repair solution will ensure that you make the best decision for your property in the Greater Boston area. Boston Concrete Works specializes in providing comprehensive assessments and repair solutions for your concrete surfaces. We have the knowledge and expertise to understand the nuances of your property and the regulations in your community to provide the highest-quality repair solutions in the Greater Boston area.