One of the most common methods of concrete crack repair involves drilling holes through the cracked member, usually spaced at five-foot intervals. The material to be used for the repair is typically a polymer like epoxy or polysulfide. Then, the contractor will fill in the hole with a masonry compound. Generally, the holes are 7/8 in. (20 mm) in diameter. A new method, called vacuum assist, involves enclosing the member with a plastic bag and pulling out the liquid adhesive.
When using epoxy or latex to fill in a concrete crack, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions. In general, you should apply the concrete crack repair material using a putty knife or mason’s trowel, and force it into the crack. This process can be messy and dusty, so the material should be applied in small amounts and pushed down into the crack. When the repair is complete, it should be level with the surrounding concrete.
Once the crack has been filled, you should then seal it with epoxy putty. This method requires you to clean the area with a chisel, remove any loose material, and apply a thicker layer of epoxy putty into the crack. Then, use a putty knife to force the filler into the crack. Then, allow the concrete to cure for seven days before applying a new coat of paint or a decorative coating.
After filling in the crack, you should then clean it using acetone or another cleaning solution. If water has penetrated the area, you can clean it by scraping the area with a wet/dry shop vacuum. After cleaning the crack, you should apply a waterproof sealant. This will ensure the crack is safe for pedestrians. If you choose to use acetone or another cleaning chemical, make sure you use a specialized solvent to remove the solution.
Before applying the repair material, you should clean the area thoroughly to remove any foreign debris and dirt. If the crack is an inch wide, the contractor will then pour sand into it and apply the concrete fortifier. This is the same procedure as the repair of larger cracks, but if you do not want to do this, you can repair it by resurfacing. If the crack is too small, you can grind it down with a grinder.
If you’re an experienced DIYer, you can use epoxy or polyurethane-based resin to seal cracks in concrete. These materials are water-based and are permanent, and can be applied to dormant or active cracks. The cured resins are flexible and can withstand future movement of the crack. They can be applied to existing or dormant cracks. It can also be used on floors and walls to repair holes in the concrete.
