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Concrete Cracks to Watch For This Summer in Atlanta

Cracked concrete driveway

As temperatures rise, concrete cracks in Atlanta become more common. The region’s extreme summer heat and expansive clay soil can wreak havoc on driveways, patios, and foundations. Atlanta’s soil shrinks during dry spells and expands after heavy rains — this natural push-and-pull puts added stress on concrete surfaces.

But here’s the good news: Most summer concrete issues in Atlanta are common and completely fixable with expert concrete repair when caught early. Here’s what to look out for.

What Causes Concrete Cracks in Atlanta Homes?

Atlanta’s unique soil and weather conditions create several challenges to foundation stability. Here are some common causes of summer concrete issues Atlanta homeowners face:

Expansive Clay Soil

Soil Erosion against brick house

Atlanta’s clay-rich soil is highly reactive. In summer, it dries out and shrinks. When rain returns, it swells. This constant movement causes concrete cracking from heat Atlanta as slabs shift unevenly.

Summer Dry Spells

Soil that has cracked on the surface illustrating how moisture in soil expands it then shrinks it when it drains or evaporates, affecting your foundation.

Long stretches of dry weather shrink the soil underneath your concrete. As the support weakens, slabs can sink or crack — leading to those serious summer concrete cracks Atlanta neighborhoods know all too well.

Poor Drainage or Soil Compaction

Rain overflowing from gutters

Without proper grading or compacted soil, water can wash away the ground beneath slabs. That void creates instability, increasing the risk of developing unsightly concrete cracks Atlanta homeowners dread.

Tree Roots or Improper Installation

tree roots destroy brick wall

Roots can push up from below, while poorly poured concrete might not hold up under Atlanta’s summer extremes. Both scenarios lead to surface stress and cracking, especially on sidewalks or other surfaces near trees.

Concrete Areas Most at Risk

Some concrete surfaces around your property are at higher risk of weather-related damage than others. Pay close attention to these areas for early signs of damage:

unlevel pool deck
  • Driveways & Sidewalks: High traffic and exposure to the sun make them prime targets.
  • Patios, Porches, and Pool Decks: Cracking here is often worsened by heat and water exposure.
  • Basements and Garage Floors: Can show signs of foundation issues.
  • Foundation Slab: Cracks here may signal deeper structural problems.

What Type of Cracks Are Serious?

During the summer, it’s important to watch for signs of summer concrete issues Atlanta experts say indicate deeper problems. Uneven or sunken sections of concrete are often caused by shrinking soil or erosion beneath the slab. You should also look for pooling water near joints or cracks, which may point to poor drainage and potential washout. Indoors, sticking doors or windows can be a sign that your foundation is shifting, often due to soil movement caused by summer heat and dry conditions.

Not all cracks are created equal. Hairline cracks are typically cosmetic, but it’s still smart to monitor them in case they widen or spread. Structural cracks, which are wider, deeper, or expanding, may indicate serious issues like foundation settling or soil instability. Horizontal or stair-step cracks, especially in foundation walls, are often red flags and should be inspected immediately. Understanding why concrete cracks in hot weather in Atlanta can help you identify which cracks are minor and which ones could lead to costly repairs if ignored.

DIY Inspection Tips for Atlanta Homeowners

Want to stay ahead of damage? Do a quick concrete check this summer:

Certified Field Inspector Inspecting Exterior Gap in Bricks
  • Walk your property and inspect all concrete surfaces
  • Look closely after long dry spells or major rainstorms
  • Use a level or tape measure to spot sinking or shifting areas
  • Check to see if existing cracks have expanded
  • Notify experts if cracks worsen

Spotting early signs of concrete cracking from heat Atlanta can save you from major repairs.

When to Call a Professional

You should contact an expert if you notice widening or spreading cracks, repeated cracking in the same spots, or other signs of foundation trouble. Free inspections from a certified concrete repair expert are a great way to assess whether your concrete cracks in Atlanta are cause for concern.

Concrete Repair Solutions That Work in Atlanta

PolyRenewal Fill Injection into concrete

Polyurethane Foam Injections

Polyurethane foam injections are the most advanced and effective solution for lifting and stabilizing sunken concrete in Atlanta. This modern method involves injecting lightweight, high-density foam beneath the slab, which expands to fill voids and raise the concrete quickly and precisely. It’s clean, fast-curing, and minimally invasive.

mudjacking

Mudjacking

Mudjacking is an older method that uses a cement-based slurry to lift sunken slabs. While it can provide temporary results, it’s less precise than polyurethane foam and much heavier, which can add stress to already unstable soil. The process also requires larger holes to be drilled into your concrete and typically takes longer to cure.

A featured image of an Aquaguard Employee repairing a concrete slab drilling into the foundation.

Concrete Replacement

Concrete replacement may be necessary when slabs are beyond repair. While this approach delivers a fresh start, it’s the most expensive and disruptive option. Full replacement requires demolition, curing time, and a larger investment of both time and money. For most cases of concrete cracking from heat in Atlanta, poly injections are a superior solution.

Schedule a Summer Inspection with AquaGuard

Certified Field Inspector outside with homeowners

Don’t wait until a small crack becomes a big problem. AquaGuard Foundation Solutions is ready to help you restore your cracked or sunken concrete, and with it, your peace of mind. Schedule a free evaluation from local pros who understand why concrete cracks in hot weather in Atlanta and how to fix it fast.

Related Resources

Conor Battles

Conor Battles

Content Writer

Conor is a content writer and SEO coordinator for Groundworks with years of media experience across a variety of channels, including in home services and interior design. He’s passionate about using digital storytelling to help homeowners envision the ideal space for their unique needs. While based in Northeast Ohio, Conor was born and raised in New England and enjoys the outdoors, local music, and old movies.

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