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Shrinkage crack
A shrinkage crack is a crack caused by concrete shrinking as it cures and dries.
Why it matters
Small shrinkage cracks can be cosmetic, but they can also be a path for water and salts.
Where people get this wrong
All cracks are not structural, but all cracks deserve context. Joints, curing, and mix design affect shrinkage cracking.
Real-world example
A new basement slab gets thin hairline cracks that look like a map. That can be shrinkage cracking. It is common, but still worth monitoring and sealing if needed.
Where this hits your build
This term shows up during construction and affects decisions that are hard to reverse once the work moves forward. Understanding it now saves time, money, and frustration later.
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