Abstract Cracks in the concrete structures are early signs of distress which have to be diagnosed properly otherwise the

repair of same crack takes place again and again causing loss of time and money. The structural cracks need more attention than non-structural cracks. The repair materials and methodology are different depending upon types of cracks, their locations such as joints, structural members etc. and conditions such as dry or moist. The present paper focuses the causes, evaluation and repair of crack in concrete structures.

Introduction
Concrete inherits certain type of cracks in pre-hardening stage and also develops some other types of cracks in post hardening stage in due course of time due to various reasons, despite our utmost care in prevention of cracks. While concrete becomes older, these cracks become sources, of leakages and seepages and give easy access to the moisture, oxygen, chloride, carbon dioxide, and other aggressive chemicals and gases into the concrete leading to serious degradation of the structure and causing corrosion of steel and damage in the concrete in the form of spalling etc. and subsequently causing structural failure of the member. Cracking is the initial sign of distress of the structure baring other forms of distress and deterioration like deformation, surface deposits and construction defects etc. causing damage to structural strength, durability and serviceability. Most cracks occur as a result of shrinkage of concrete. Shrinkage is simply a reduction in the volume of concrete as it hardens. However, in reality, ground friction and a number of things such as structural connections inhibit free shrinkage and thus cause cracks. How much shrinkage is normal? A 100-foot-long regular-weight concrete slab normally would shrink by about 3/4 inch. In other words, you should expect cracks totaling in widths up to 3/4 inch in every 100 feet of concrete. Lightweight concrete shrinks more. It is important to note that concrete does crack and that this is normal. What is not normal is an unsightly and excessive amount of cracks.

Non-structural Cracks
Not every crack threatens the structural safety of a building. In fact, in many instances, cracks are merely cosmetic in nature. These cracks are typically seen in flat work such as driveways, patio, walkways and curbs. Typical causes of these cracks are: Poor workmanship Inappropriate joint detailing Higher shrinkage of concrete Sometimes such nonstructural cracks in driveways and sidewalks become more than just an eyesore. Tree roots and impact from vehicles can cause raveling as well as vertical and horizontal offsets at the cracks. When these offsets become trip hazards, repairs are necessary.

Structural Cracks
A majority of structural cracks occur as a result of the following conditions: Design deficiency Construction deficiency Settlement or heaving of soil Reinforcement corrosion Sometimes structural cracks manifest themselves with some side effects. Doors and windows do not open and close easily. Floors feel uneven. Vinyl flooring tears as a result of crack movement. Stucco (plaster applied while soft to cover exterior walls or surface) begins to show new cracks and even interior corners may develop new cracks. Longitudinal cracks can develop along the length of the foundation as a result of corrosion of reinforcement.