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Static Crack

Last updated: June 11, 2020

What Does Static Crack Mean?

A static crack is a thin (hairline) surface crack that usually propagates at a very slow rate. As such, the crack may appear to be unchanging (static). Unlike dynamic cracks, which are active and require urgent repair, static cracks may need little to no structural repair because they are considered to be mainly aesthetic. Static cracks are a common occurrence in concrete.

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Corrosionpedia Explains Static Crack

All concrete, no matter the strength, will eventually crack. The type of cracking (dynamic or static) depends on the environment and the nature of the applied loading.

A common type of static crack in concrete is a shrinkage crack. As concrete is exposed to changing temperatures, it expands and contracts accordingly. These thermal effects cause thin cracks to appear on the concrete's surface as the material tries to breathe. Once formed, these cracks do not typically increase in width and length, thus giving them a static appearance.

While static cracks may be unsightly, they do not usually indicate serious structural problems. However, if exposed to increased or repeated loading, static cracks may turn into dynamic cracks, at which point the integrity of the concrete may be compromised.

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