How to Repair Cracks in Concrete: A Comprehensive Guide

Wide cracks in concrete can be easily repaired with the right materials. Learn how to repair cracks in poured concrete slabs with this comprehensive guide.

How to Repair Cracks in Concrete: A Comprehensive Guide

Wide cracks in concrete can be a major eyesore and a safety hazard. Fortunately, they can be easily repaired with the right materials. Concrete surfaces cannot be repaired with concrete, but instead require a concrete repair mix. Options include epoxy compounds, latex patch material, and mortar mixes.

The latter option works best for filling large cracks (or chipped edges), while the other products are suitable for cracks in concrete inch wide or narrower. Repairing concrete cracks makes your doorway look better and, at the same time, protects it from the elements such as rain, snow, dirt, etc. In some cases, concrete crack repair can be a simple DIY project, while in others it may require a professional concrete contractor to correct the damage. In the most extreme cases, concrete may need to be removed and replaced. Before beginning any repair project, it is important to understand what caused the crack in the first place.

Understanding what leads to cracks in concrete can help you make sure that the following three mistakes do not occur. When working with cement-based products, always wear eye protection and waterproof gloves. Shake the concrete crack sealer vigorously for about 15 to 30 seconds. Wait until the forecast indicates dry weather and the concrete surface is at least 50 degrees F. Concrete that is cracked only on the surface or that has fine cracks where both sides of the crack are still level can be successfully repaired. If your driveway, patio or other concrete surface has cracks, they can often be repaired with a concrete patch compound.

An epoxy sealant can also be used in smaller cracks, but for larger fractures in concrete, you will want to use exclusively an epoxy remedy. This protects the concrete and can be lifted after applying the epoxy, leaving the gloss of the concrete (or lack thereof) in the same state it was in before repairs were made. You can try SikaFlex Concrete Fix or SikaFlex Mortar Fix. But call Sika first and ask her what they recommend for your specific project. QUIKRETE concrete repair, QUIKRETE gray concrete crack seal or QUIKRETE self-leveling polyurethane sealant can also be used.

If you have a long sloping driveway with long cracks or holes created by pressure washing, you can use Bella de Quikrete. Repairing a broken concrete driveway also improves the exterior appeal of your home, especially if you are selling. It is possible that the subgrade was compacted and the concrete was subjected to extreme weight, causing the concrete to sink. Step 4a Slowly draw the gun through the crack, forcing a drop of concrete repair putty deep into the crack. We have very deep cracks between the pieces of our walkway in our backyard about 3 inches deep. Are we wondering if we can put sand under the foam? Long sleeves and long pants will help protect your skin when using a pressure washer or working with concrete. I'll take my chances and assume that most of you have a broom and a concrete crack filler (LOL, just kidding).

Riley Ryan
Riley Ryan

Subtly charming twitter aficionado. Evil web trailblazer. Total beer trailblazer. Professional bacon maven. Prone to fits of apathy. Alcohol fanatic.