Concrete is highly durable and tough, but it can still crack over years. Fortunately, repairing concrete cracks is not that hard.
You might think that cracks in concrete are just unsightly, but they can cause slabs to settle, weeds to grow, and concrete to break down. Hence, it is very important to repair concrete cracks as soon as possible.
In this article, we will guide you on how you can repair concrete cracks yourself and save a handsome amount of money.
Quick Guide for Repairing Concrete Cracks
Tool Required
- Sledgehammer
- Concrete Float
- Jointer or Concrete Groover
- Concrete Edger
- Caulking Gun
- Trowel
- Broom
- Wire Brush
- Knee Pads
- Dust Mask
- Safety Glasses
- Work Gloves
- Wheelbarrow
- Shovel
- Tamper
- Chisel
Materials Required
- Sand
- Latex Bonding Agent
- Concrete Mix
- Quick-Setting Concrete
- Caulk
- Concrete Crack Filler
- Vinyl Concrete Patcher
- Concrete Cleaner
- Gravel
Repairing Narrow Cracks on Concrete Surface
- Use a wire brush and a broom to remove any loose debris or dust from the crack and the area nearby before starting the repair process. You can also use a vacuum cleaner for clearing dust from the crack.
- Use masonry concrete crack filler in a caulking gun to fill narrow cracks.
- Or, you can also use a vinyl concrete patching compound to fill the cracks. Apply the patching compound, smooth it out with a putty knife, and let it cure as per the instructions.
- If you use vinyl concrete patching compound, there is no need to use a latex bonding agent during repair.
Repairing Wide Concrete Cracks
- Wider cracks are a bit technical to repair and require some extra effort. Start by using a small sledgehammer and a chisel to strike the edges of the crack. This makes the crack wider at the base than the surface, ensuring that the concrete patch holds itself for a secure repair.
- Remove all the dust and debris from the cracks using a wire brush and a broom. Use a power washer to wash the area with a powerful stream of water.
- Create vinyl patching compound following the directions given on the pack and apply the compound into the cracks using a trowel. Use a tamper to smooth out the mixture and remove air pockets.
- If you opt for patching mortar instead of vinyl concrete sealer, mix it with a bonding agent instead of water.
- Smooth out the mixture using a trowel.
- Let the compound patch set as per the instructions on the packaging, and smooth out the patch surface to match the surrounding area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to fix concrete driveway cracks?
Begin by cleaning the crack, use some sand to fill the crack and apply caulk (1/2 inch maximum), and smooth out the caulk. Let it set before using the driveway.
How to repair cracks in a concrete garage?
You can use epoxy or flexible concrete caulk to repair cracks in a concrete garage. Begin by clearing dust and debris from the crack and grinding the crack to create uniform edges to allow the filler to settle down nicely. Add the chosen crack filler and settle it down with a putty knife.
How to repair cracks in concrete sidewalks?
Cracks in sidewalks can be quite risky as they lead to uneven surfaces for people to walk on. The repair process for concrete sidewalks is the same as explained above for concrete garages. Simply widen the crack using a sledgehammer and a chisel and then remove the debris. Apply the filler and let it settle down. It is better to use a barrier to stop people from walking over when the patch is wet.
What are the reasons behind cracks in concrete?
Concrete develops cracks due to uneven drying, shrinkage, temperature changes, and a wrong cement-to-water ratio.
What are the different types of concrete crack repair?
The different concrete crack repair methods include flexible concrete repair, polyurea crack filler, epoxy, concrete patch, mortar, or grout. Out of all these, concrete patch and mortar are the best methods for DIY concrete crack repairing.
How long does concrete repair last?
It depends on how well you have carried out the repairs and the quality of the materials used. A well-executed repair typically lasts for 8 to 10 years.
Which is the best DIY method for repairing concrete cracks?
The most common method to repair concrete cracks for driveways, sidewalks, garages, and patios is flexible concrete caulk.
Can you use a concrete sealer to fix cracks?
No. Concrete sealers are used to protect concrete surfaces from damage caused by water, oil, and other contaminants. It cannot repair cracks.
Why is it important to fill concrete cracks as soon as possible?
Ignoring concrete cracks can lead to bigger issues and costly repairs, such as structural or chemical damages. Therefore, make sure you get your concrete cracks repaired as soon as possible.
How to remove paint from concrete before repairing cracks?
Concrete is porous and absorbs paint very well. This is why many homeowners prefer painting it for a more aesthetically pleasing look. Use sandpaper to remove any loose paint and soften it. Now use a pressure washer with 3000 pounds per square inch (PSI) setting to remove the maximum amount of paint. Once you have given the concrete a good wash, apply a chemical paint remover made specifically for concrete. When working with chemicals, make sure you wear protective equipment and follow all the product instructions.
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