Concrete cracks are eyesores that can damage the structural integrity of our driveway, patio, or sideway. Do not worry! There is a way to fix these problems and bring your concrete to its top condition.

Types of Cracks

Before fixing your concrete cracks, you must determine what kind it is. There are three main types of damage:

1. Hairline Cracks: Often appearing as thin holes, cracks in this category are usually superficial and have widths less than a quarter inch. They are typically fixed via patching or caulking.
2. Structural Cracks: These cracks often have more width and depth than hairline cracks. Such cracks are proof of structural problems and need to be tackled thoroughly. Such repair procedures include excavation and rebar reinforcements.
3. Expansion Cracks: As the name implies, this type of crack occurs as concrete changes size (contracts and expands) with temperature changes. Usually, expansion cracks are not a big deal until they widen actively.

What You Need To Repair Concrete Cracks

You have figured out the type of crack you are dealing with. Next, you must gather the tools that make up your repair kit.

1. Safety Gear: This comprises gloves, goggles, masks, etc. Safety tools are necessary to protect yourself from debris and danger while repairing your concrete.
2. Cleaning Equipment: While repairing concrete, you will need a broom, wire brush, and a scraper to remove dirt and loose particles surrounding the crack.
3. Crack Prepping Tools: You will need a hammer and a chisel to handle structural cracks. You would also need a grinder to extensively clean and shape more significant damages.
4. Filling Materials: If the crack is hairline, you should get on some epoxy or latex patching blend. If the gap is much broader, use a concrete composite or patching compound infused with gravel.
5. Application Equipment: A caulking gun will help lay epoxy or latex fillers on the crack without making a mess. A trowel or putty knife will help you fan out your patching compound.

How To Repair Different Types of Cracks

Remember the types of concrete cracks mentioned earlier? Now, it’s time to learn how to fix these crack types.

1. Hairline Cracks:

• Wipe the site of the crack thoroughly.
• With a caulking gun, apply a layer of an appropriate crack filler.
• Spread out the stuffing with a putty knife. As stated in the maker’s instructions, allow the filler to dry.

1. Structural Cracks:

• Slightly expand the crack with a hammer and a chisel. This process will form a V-shaped groove that will allow for a more efficient adhesion.
• Clean the cracked property.
• If needed, add some rebar supports to improve stability.
• Add the concrete blend or patch filler to the crack and ensure it is compacted.
• Polish the surface and let it cure completely.

How To Prevent Cracks In The Future

You now know how to fix concrete cracks. But there is something else you should know (what you should have learned initially) – how to stop the cracks from occurring in the first place! For starters, you should control the moisture around the concrete structure. Fix any drainage problems to prevent water from permeating the concrete and, consequently, cracking. You can also introduce expansion joints in substantial concrete slabs to allow fluid movement and stop breaking. Most importantly, regularly maintain your concrete structure. If you spot any minor cracks, fix them immediately to prevent them from widening.

Contact DeLuca Masonry

Don’t forget – you need to prepare and plan when fixing concrete cracks adequately. If you need some help, contact the professionals at DeLuca Masonry today! Our concrete-fixing services are some of the best in the industry. Get your concrete crack repaired at an affordable price!