Removing and Replacing Failing Concrete

Concrete tear out and replacement services in Rochester, Minnesota for cracked, settled, or unsafe slabs that need to be rebuilt.

When your driveway, patio, or walkway in Rochester has cracked beyond repair, settled unevenly, or started breaking apart, removal and replacement is often the only way to fix the underlying issues and restore a safe, stable surface. Pristine Custom Concrete handles tear out and replacement for aging concrete in older neighborhoods across the area, addressing drainage problems, soil settlement, and structural damage that patching cannot solve.

The process involves breaking up the old concrete, hauling it away, and preparing the base correctly before pouring a new slab with proper reinforcement. This service is common for driveways that have sunk near the garage, walkways that have become trip hazards, and patios where water pools because the slope was never set right. Replacing the concrete means starting fresh with a stable base, correct grading, and materials suited for Rochester's freeze-thaw conditions.

If you have damaged concrete that needs to come out and you want a replacement that lasts, reach out to schedule an estimate and discuss your project timeline.

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What Happens From Removal to New Pour

The crew begins by breaking up the old concrete in Rochester using jackhammers or saws, then hauls the debris off site for disposal. Once the area is cleared, the base is inspected, regraded if needed, and compacted so the new slab will not settle the same way the old one did.

After the base is ready, you will see new forms set to the correct height and slope, reinforcement placed where it is needed, and fresh concrete poured and finished to match your existing surfaces. The new slab drains properly, sits level, and does not have the cracks or voids that caused problems before.

This service includes removal, disposal, base prep, and the new pour, but it does not cover decorative finishes unless you request them separately. The focus is on restoring function and safety, with the option to add color or texture if you want more than a standard gray finish.

What You Should Know Before the Work Starts

Homeowners in Rochester often ask how long the project takes, what causes concrete to fail, and whether replacement is always necessary. Here are answers to help you understand what to expect.

What causes concrete to crack and settle over time?
Concrete cracks and settles when the base was not compacted properly, when water washes away the soil underneath, or when freeze-thaw cycles cause the ground to shift. Poor drainage makes these problems worse in Rochester.
How long does a tear out and replacement take?
Most residential driveways or patios take two to three days, including removal, base prep, and the new pour. You will need to stay off the new concrete for at least a week before regular use.
What happens to the old concrete after it is removed?
The broken concrete is hauled off site and disposed of responsibly, often recycled for use as aggregate in other projects. You do not need to arrange disposal yourself.
Why is base prep important for the new slab?
If the base is not compacted and graded correctly, the new concrete will settle just like the old one did. Proper base prep in Rochester ensures the slab stays stable through seasonal ground movement.
When should I replace concrete instead of patching it?
Replace concrete when it has multiple cracks, has settled unevenly, or when the base underneath has eroded. Patching works for small surface damage, but structural issues need a full replacement.

Pristine Custom Concrete removes and replaces failing concrete throughout Rochester, restoring driveways, patios, and walkways that have become unsafe or unsightly. If your concrete has reached the point where replacement makes sense, contact us to go over your options and set up a time for the work.