Cracks in concrete slabs are common and easily fixed as long as there isn't a significant underlying problem: large cracks or multiple cracks that reappear shortly after being repaired should be examined by a knowledgeable contractor. When repairing concrete, be proactive and fix cracks quickly. Moisture often works its way into small cracks, causing the crack to enlarge during the freeze-thaw cycle.
Instructions
Hairline Cracks
1. Clean out the crack as thoroughly as possible using a power washer. Allow the concrete to dry completely before continuing.
2. Fill the crack in the concrete using a tube of concrete filler. The most suitable types of concrete fillers for slabs are epoxy based, which require that the epoxy be mixed according to the manufacturer's instructions prior to application.
3. Smooth the top of the repair using a putty knife, feathering the edges to make the patch less apparent.
Large Cracks
4. Enlarge the crack slightly by creating a backward angle using a chisel and ball peen hammer. This will help prevent the concrete patch from popping out of the slab.
5. Clean out the crack thoroughly, using a wire brush. If the crack is deeper than three inches and wider than one inch, fill it with sand until the crack is no more than three inches deep.
6. Paint a concrete bonding adhesive onto the interior surface of the crack using a paintbrush. The bonding agent, combined with a crack that is narrower at the top than at the bottom, will help prevent problems in that area in the future.
7. Mix a batch of concrete patching material, following manufacturer's instructions regarding the recommended proportions of water to use.
8. Fill the crack with the concrete patching material using a trowel. Smooth the top of the patch carefully, feathering the ends to conceal the former crack as much as possible.
Related posts
You can repair a concrete wall with a hairline crack in it if you get to it right away.It is not uncommon for a concrete wall in your basement or garage to sustain a hairline crack. This type of c...
If you are planning a concrete project, you will be dedicating your time and money to making it perfect. Whether you will be doing the job on you own or hiring a contractor, there are a few things...
Repair Hairline Cement CracksAlthough cement is a durable material, it is not uncommon for hairline cracks to form. These small, thin cracks are usually the result of the cement structure or surfa...
This crack in a concrete block basement wall requires immediate repair to prevent it from spreading.If you are looking at cracks in the exterior walls of your basement, you are looking at cracks i...
Ready to paint a room but notice small cracks on your walls? These small to medium cracks in plaster or drywall result from any of the following: a house settling on its foundation, a minor earthq...
