When it comes to assessing concrete damage, understanding whether a crack is active or dormant is essential. This distinction determines how the repair should be carried out, what materials to use, and how long the fix will last — especially in commercial waterproofing and structural repair projects across the Gold Coast’s varied coastal conditions.
What Are Active Cracks?
Active cracks are still moving or shifting. They may widen, lengthen, or change position due to ongoing stress, temperature fluctuations, moisture penetration, or structural settlement. These cracks are often found in:
- Foundations and footings
- Concrete slabs and retaining walls
- Areas subject to vibration or heavy traffic
Because active cracks are dynamic, they require flexible repair systems designed to move with the structure. Common solutions include:
- Polyurethane crack injection to seal and flex with future movement
- Elastomeric sealants that expand and contract with temperature changes
- Expansion joint installation to manage ongoing movement
These systems prevent re-cracking and ensure long-term waterproofing protection — crucial for Gold Coast properties exposed to moisture and humidity.
What Are Dormant Cracks?
Dormant cracks are stable and inactive — they’ve stopped moving. They usually result from:
- Initial concrete shrinkage during curing
- Minor settlement that has since stabilised
- Past structural movement that’s no longer active
Dormant cracks are commonly seen in older concrete slabs, walls, or non-load-bearing structures. Since no movement is expected, they can be repaired with rigid materials such as:
- Epoxy injection systems for structural bonding
- Cementitious patching compounds for surface restoration
These methods provide strong, long-lasting repairs ideal for internal walls, garages, or warehouse floors where movement is minimal.
How to Tell if a Crack is Active or Dormant
Proper diagnosis is key. Qualified waterproofing and repair specialists will assess crack behavior using:
- Visual inspections for changes in width or direction
- Moisture testing to detect water ingress
- Crack gauges or monitoring over time to observe movement
Active cracks often show moisture staining, efflorescence, or seasonal widening.
Dormant cracks remain consistent in size and appearance over time.
Why Correct Diagnosis Matters
Misidentifying an active crack as dormant can lead to premature repair failure, water leaks, or structural damage — especially in basements, car parks, or coastal builds where movement and moisture are common.
Understanding crack behavior also ensures compliance with Australian Standards and QBCC waterproofing regulations.
Protect Your Structure with the Right Crack Repair
Whether you’re sealing a hairline crack in a car park or stabilising a moving wall in a commercial basement, the key is identifying how the crack behaves before repair.
For Gold Coast waterproofing and concrete crack repairs, trust a team that understands local conditions — from humidity and salt exposure to structural movement. Getting it right the first time ensures your structure stays safe, dry, and durable for years to come.