Brief info: Cracks in precast concrete garages

Question: Are cracks in my concrete garage normal?

Answer: Yes, fine cracks are completely normal in precast concrete garages. Reinforced concrete is a building material that is designed to crack. As long as the cracks are no wider than 0.4 millimeters, everything is fine. This is even specified in the DIN standard.

Question: When does a crack become a defect?

Answer: A crack is a defect if it is wider than 0.4 millimeters. This is specified in DIN EN 13978-1. Even if water penetrates through the crack and drips down, this constitutes a defect – regardless of the width of the crack. In both cases, you are entitled to have the defect repaired.

Question: Why does concrete crack in the first place?

Answer: Concrete cracks for several reasons: Firstly, it shrinks as it dries and changes its volume when the temperature fluctuates. Secondly, prefabricated garages are manufactured using the bell casting process without expansion joints. Thirdly, this is actually intentional in reinforced concrete – the steel absorbs the tensile forces and the concrete absorbs the compressive forces.

Question: Is my garage still safe despite the cracks?

Answer: Yes, absolutely. Even with visible cracks, the stability is not compromised. The garage will not collapse. You can continue to use your garage without hesitation. The steel reinforcement reliably bears the loads.

Question: How do I measure the crack width?

Answer: The best way is with a crack width card. You can get one cheaply at a hardware store or online. Hold the card directly against the crack and compare the lines. Take a photo with the card as a reference for your documentation.

Question: What is DIN EN 13978-1?

Answer: This is the relevant product standard for all manufacturers of precast concrete garages. It specifies what is permitted and what is not. Among other things, it states that cracks up to 0.4 millimeters are permissible. The full name of the standard is: DIN EN 13978-1 Precast concrete products – Precast concrete garages.

Question: Can ZAPF repair my cracks?

Answer: Yes, we specialize in the modernization and renovation of precast concrete garages. Cracks are professionally sealed with epoxy resin. The result is durable and watertight. Contact us for a quote.

Question: How much does crack repair cost?

Answer: That depends on the extent of the damage. For an accurate quote, we need photos of the cracks and details about your garage. Contact our customer service team and we will be happy to provide you with a personalized quote.

Question: My garage is new and already has cracks. Is this a reason for complaint?

Answer: Only if the cracks are wider than 0.4 millimeters or allow water to pass through. Fine hairline cracks may already be present upon delivery—this is normal and due to the building materials. Measure the crack width with a crack width card. For cracks wider than 0.4 mm, please contact our customer service.

Question: Water is dripping through a crack in the ceiling. What should I do?

Answer: This is clearly a defect, regardless of the crack width. Document this with photos and contact our customer service immediately. This will be repaired free of charge within the warranty period. Our telephone number is 0921 601