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Cracks that are wide in concrete should be repaired and sealed using the concrete patching compound. Smaller cracks, smaller than 1/4 inch wide are repairable with caulk made of concrete or liquid filler. Patching materials are usually mixed with water and then applied using the trowel. They are similar to grout, and can be smoothed or textured to blend into the surrounding space. However the colour of the patch may appear as if it is new concrete, but will not be as similar to the old concrete. The patch must be completely hidden by applying the correct concrete paint.
How to Repair Wide Concrete Cracks
The key to fixing concrete cracks that are wide is to cut edges of cracks in order to give them the appearance of an upside-down “V” form. This allows the patch material “key” in the crack forming an electrical bond as well as a bonds between patch as well as the concrete.
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- Chisel the crack using an hammer and a an masonry chisel in order to increase the crack’s base and also to remove any loose material that has accumulated from the concrete.
- Get rid of all debris in the crack using the wire brush. If needed clean the crack using the pressure washer or garden spray nozzle and hose.
- Clean all debris and water from the crack by using the help of a dry/wet shop vacuum or brush. Make sure you remove the dust and grit out of the crack. It’s fine when the surfaces are damp however, there must not be any pools of water.
- Mix the concrete patching compound according to the directions of the manufacturer.
- The compound should be inserted into the crack. Staple the trowel in the concrete to eliminate air pockets. Then, help work the patching material deeply in the crack. The crack should be filled to the concrete surface.
- The patch’s surface is smoothed using the trowel, gently feathering the patch into the concrete.
- Apply the patching compound using dry paintbrushes to create texture the surface, if you want.
- Allow the solution to cure take place as instructed.
How to Repair Narrow Concrete Cracks
Concrete cracks that are narrow can be filled with the elastomeric filler for masonry cracks that is applied using caulking guns. Some products are also available in bottles that come with the applicator tips. Cracks that are small like hairline cracks can be repaired with the patching compound made of vinyl applied to the crack later smoothed using a putty trowel or knife. For hairline cracks the repair caulk, also known as crack filler on cracks typically isn’t efficient, since the caulk will be removed from the surface as time passes.
Cracks that are narrow can be very deep, and often extend through the entire width of the slab. This is why it’s a great idea to begin the repair process by placing foam backer rod inside the crack, creating an anchor for repairs. Backer rod can be purchased in various sizes. Choose a size that is slightly bigger than the size that the fracture. Inject the rod into the crack using an screwdriver until it reaches the depth about 1/4 inches. Fill in the crack using the repair material in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer.
