Concrete is known to last hundreds of years; however, it will start to develop small holes, cracks, gaps, and crevices sooner or later. If your concrete structure, path, driveway, or patio starts showing its age, you must make concrete repairs as soon as possible. After all, today’s minor issue may turn into a significant problem that may need more money to repair.
Start By Selecting Your Repair Product.
You cannot make concrete repairs using concrete. Instead, it would help if you used a concrete repair mix. You can find these ready-to-use mixes available at home centres and online. Your options include latex patching material, epoxy compounds, and mortar mixes. Mortar mixes are the best option to fill chipped edges or large cracks. Others are ideal for concrete cracks 1/8-inch wide (or less).
Next, You Need To Prepare The Area.
Using a small chisel and hammer, knock away any crumbling, cracked, or loose concrete. You must reach about 1-inch below the surface and rinse the area thoroughly. It would help if you also scrubbed the area using a wire brush to loosen any lingering particles. Keep in mind that it might get a little messy. Before making concrete repairs, you might want to lay a tarp underneath your work area.
Finally, Fixing the Crack!
Latex or Epoxy: You can apply these materials to small cracks using a putty knife or a mason’s trowel. Try to force it inside the gap and then smooth it down to the level of your concrete. Ensure you read the directions listed on your selected product.
Mortar Mix: For large-scale concrete repairs, you must use mortar mix. Use three parts masonry sand, Portland cement, and just enough water to form a thick paste. You can even purchase ready-made mortar mixes. Once ready, apply the mixture and try to eliminate any air pockets by pressing down firmly. Finally, smoothen out your patch so it’s levelled.
Contact a professional immediately if you don’t know how to handle concrete repairs or don’t have the time to do the job yourself. They can help you achieve ideal, long-term results effortlessly.
