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Basic Techniques for Patching Different Concrete Surfaces

10 May 2017 by Audrey Ramos

These days, concrete is one of the most widely used materials in the construction industry. The sheer strength, beauty and versatility of the material makes it applicable for almost any project that you want to work on. The ability to mould fresh concrete into almost any shape gives it an advantage over other materials such as brick and stone. Additionally, well done concrete surfaces can never succumb to rotting or weathering. The only challenge is the possibly of cracking cause by poor mixing or curing procedures. When this happens, here are some basic steps and tips you can use to repair your concrete surface:

Hairlines on Concrete Surfaces

Just as the name suggests, hairlines are thin lines of weakness that appear of the concrete floor as slim fissures. Even though hairlines have no significant effect on the integrity of the concrete structures, they can grow over time and form large cracks. To repair a concrete hairline, pour water along the hairline but be careful not to use too much water. It shouldn't even accumulate to the surface of the hairline. Preferably, you should moisten the hairline two or three hours before commencing the repair. Apply fresh concrete in the hairline using a trowel then scrape the surface to smoothen it. After that, cover the repaired area using a plastic material and let it cure for several hours without any pedestrian traffic passing over it. For optimal curing, moisten the area generously with clean water once every day for five days.

Cracks on Concrete Surfaces

Cracks larger than a hairline on walls, floors and sidewalks require a slightly different technique during do-it-yourself repairs. Begin by enlarging the crack with a chisel and hammer to increase the surface inside the crack for a more comprehensive job. Ideally, When widening the crack, its bottom should be larger than the top for a better bond between the old and new concrete. Remove all the debris from the enlarged crack using a stiff brush. You can also blow the crack with a hose for better results. Thereafter, use a paintbrush to smear concrete adhesive in the enlarged crack, leaving it to dry for a few minutes to form a sticky surface. Add water to premixed concrete and fill up the crack with a trowel. For places such as pavements and driveways that need a stronger surface, you should replace sand with gravel when preparing the concrete.

After filling the crack with the concrete mixture, tamp it thoroughly for a firm surface.

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