Should my path have cracked?

Question

I have an imprinted patterned garden path (about 18 months old) that has suffered a hairline crack across it.  Can these be repaired, and any idea what may have caused it?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Cause.
Probably shrinkage of the concrete or differential settlement because of insufficient or inconsistent compaction of the base before the concrete was laid. Other factors include length of path and whether there are contraction/expansion joints in the path. If it is just a hairline crack, seal it with a silicone filler so that water can't get in, freeze and cause further damage. Email be with more details if you like and I may be able to comment further.

HyperDog · Answer

Settling or contraction.   

The path should have expansion joints every meter or two, which are cuts (intentionally weakened spots) that will separate cleanly when there's settling or contraction.   

Small cracks can be filled in with thin mortar (it may need to be colored if the existing material was dyed), but if the movement continues or is seasonal, the cracks will reappear.

Should my path have cracked?

2 Answers