Using Epoxy to Repair Cracked Concrete

Concrete is durable but can still crack if it isn't installed correctly or misused. Although it might seem ugly, cracks in concrete can affect the value and appearance of your home. Concrete repair is easy. Give it a go. There are many DIY options available for repairing cracked concrete. Epoxy, a 2-component polyurethane plastic polymer that can cure in freezing temperatures and doesn't need routing, fills hairline cracks, cures fast and doesn’t require any routing. The reason the cracks were caused in the first instance may mean that the repair will only be temporary.

Common Reasons For Cracked Concrete

Subbase Problem. Concrete that was not properly compacted can cause it to settle on a particular area of the surface instead of spreading evenly over the entire thing. Concrete will eventually sink to an even surface, which can lead to cracks.

Low Temperatures -- Winter is Concrete's worst enemy. Concrete cracks when it's covered in dirt.

Concrete shrinks when it dries This is to be expected. It happens when the concrete shrinks because it was not properly cured or was too wet. The concrete should have expansion joints cut into it to prevent cracking.

Your fix may be temporary, depending upon the reason. A crack in the concrete could be caused by sub-base problems. The concrete might need to have its foundation removed and remade. Repairing the crack is only temporary because the concrete may shift again. You might be able to keep it from cracking again if the concrete has been exposed to freezing temperatures. If concrete cracks because of initial shrinkage, permanent repairs are possible.

How to Repair a Crack

1. The first step is to key the crack. This is done by using a tool such as a hammer or a circular saw to cut through the cracks. The crack will be larger at its bottom than it is at its top. This will allow for a more secure repair.

TIP: You may need to use an electric file to expand the crack to have a lasting repair.

2. Use a wire brush for loose debris or other damage to the crack. Key it. To clean the area thoroughly, you can also use a vacuum to capture any particles.

3. Use water to clean the area of any remaining debris or dirt. To get rid of any grease or oil, you can use a powerful cleaner before you do your repairs.

4. Add concrete repair resin to the crack.

5. Fill the cracks with dry silica.

6. Fill the cracks with more resin.

7. Allow the paint to dry for around 10-15 minutes. After that, you can use putty to smoothen the surface.

8. You can sand the repaired surface to make it look cleaner or smoother if it feels rough.