3 Hints to Repair Concrete Better

Concrete CracksThe true test of any structure is if it can withstand the test of time. Houses, for example, retain high property value if they are structurally strong. That is why most homes now are built with concrete. Concrete is a very strong material which is actually a mixture of gravel, sand, cement, and water. The four of these combined can create a sturdy foundation.

However, concrete is not impervious to the elements. They shrink when temperatures drop, and expand when temperatures shoot up. This movement in the material can eventually lead to cracks in your concrete walls and floors. And this is the time when concrete repairs need to be done. If you notice some cracks in your house’s concrete floors or walls, do not panic. Here are some tips to consider.    

Do not ignore cracks

Cracks naturally occur to any concrete slab, but it does not mean you ignore them totally. Cracks may sometimes indicate a shrinking-expanding movement in your home goes through as the weather changes, but it can also indicate a bigger structural damage within. If there are too many small cracks in your concrete or if a crack is fourth of an inch wide, consult with an engineer to have your home inspected. Otherwise, normal cracks can easily be repaired.

Use bonding agents

Concrete bonding agents are crucial in any concrete repair job, says Waterproofing Direct. This is because new concrete will not bond with old concrete. As a way to remedy this, acrylic bonding agents are painted on the old concrete and/or mixed with the new concrete mixture. Note, however, that the bonding agents alone may not work effectively for larger repair projects. If the concrete slabs for repair are bigger, then the use of mechanical pins may be needed as well.

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Different ways to repair concrete

Because concrete structures are different within our homes, the approach for each problem area may differ. There are various ways to repair concrete. For example, patching up a wall crack may involve injecting hardening foam to fill in the gap. While when fixing a hole in the cement floor, making deeper undercuts is necessary to make the patch stronger.

In order to keep your home sturdy, it is important to never neglect any crack. At the first sign of cracking concrete, inspect it and have it repaired (or repair it yourself) using strong bonding agents. At the end of the day, a house that’s crack-free gives you the peace of mind you need.