What is the Best Way to Repair Concrete?

Concrete is a strong, long-lasting material used for construction works that range from driveways and sidewalks to foundations and walls. However, it can, over time, develop cracks, spalling, or even other forms of damage caused by weather, heavy loads, and general wear. Proper repair of concrete is critical in order to maintain the structure and appearance of a building. Here are the best methods to effectively repair concrete.

Inspect the Damage

First, assess the damage before attempting to repair it. Small cracks and surface spalling or minor chips require different techniques for their repair than large cracks or other such damages to the structure. Check if the damage is superficial or goes through into the concrete’s structural integrity.

Clean the Area

Long-lasting concrete repair work is impossible without proper surface preparation. Clean the area around the damage first. Use a wire brush, chisel, or pressure washer to blow away any loose debris, dirt, grease, and oil. For deep cracks and serious damage, hammer and chisel a clean, rough edge. It allows a new concrete to connect with the old surface effectively.

Choose the Right Repair Material

The proper choice of repair material can be very defining. Common choices include the following:

Concrete Patch Compound: This is used for small cracks and general surface spalling. It is relatively easy to apply and can be smoothed to the surrounding surface finish.
Epoxy or Polyurethane Sealants: Suitable for larger breaks or if a watertight seal is needed, sealants are flexible, allowing movement to take place without further cracking.
Hydraulic Cement: This is useful when there are active leaks and cracks, for it sets fast and somewhat expands on curing, hence filling the gap.
Resurfacer: If the area is a little bigger with widespread damage, a resurfacer can be applied to create a new, smooth surface. This is particularly useful on driveways, patios, and sidewalks.

Apply the Repair Material

Now that the surface is prepared and you are equipped with all raw materials, begin the repair as follows:

Small Cracks and Surface Damage: With a trowel, pack the compound or sealant into a crack or over an uneven area so that it’s overfilled. Spread it off, feathering the edges so it blends with surrounding surfaces. Let it cure per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Deep Cracks and Structural Repairs: For deeper cracks, you will need a backer rod to fill up the crevice and then seal it. This minimizes the quantity of sealant material used. Fill up the sealant in the crack from bottom to top, smooth the surface, and let it self-cure.
Resurfacing: Mix the resurfacer according to instructions and pour it onto the prepared surface. Spread uniformly using a squeegee or trowel, making sure it gets into all depressions, creating a smooth, even finish. Allow full curing before any traffic onto it.

Finishing Touches

After the repair material has hardened, a concrete sealer can be applied over the surface to protect it from future damage. Doing so will eliminate any access points for water, chemicals, and wear on the concrete. Keep in mind that periodic maintenance and repairing concrete surfaces at the first sign of trouble will extend the life of the concrete.

By following these steps, effective concrete repair can offer an exceedingly long service life.

This post was written by a professional at Apexx Enterprise LLC. Adam Ortega founded the company https://apexxenterprise.com/, in 2016 at only 20 years old. Mr. Ortega has become a licensed general contractor Tucson in the state of Arizona like his father and grandfather before him. Apexx Enterprise LLC is licensed, bonded, and insured and it is available for review at the Better Business Bureau. Apexx Enterprise LLC has won many achievements within the Home Advisor platform and we have multiple reviews as well. Their Mission Statement – “Our crew at Apexx Enterprise will perform the highest quality construction services for our customers. We aim to achieve our mission through total service satisfaction and by delivering our services while maintaining the highest levels of professionalism, integrity, and honesty.”