How To Repair Damaged Concrete?

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Concrete is everywhere. It’s a fundamental part of our driveways, sidewalks, and even the foundations of our homes. And there are many reasons why: few materials are as cost-effective and durable as concrete. It’s easy to maintain with a good pressure wash and adaptable to any style or design you prefer, making it an excellent choice for outdoor living.

But even the most robust materials can show wear and tear over time. Whether your driveway has cracks or your patio has a chipped surface, you want to solve your problem quickly and easily. Let’s dive into this brief guide on the basics of how to repair damaged concrete, starting with the most critical step: evaluating and planning your project.

Understanding The Problem

Identifying the cause helps ensure your repair lasts longer and addresses the root of the problem. Before jumping in the car and heading to the nearest home supply store, it’s essential to understand what is causing the damage to your concrete. The most common culprits are:

Weathering: Freeze-thaw cycles can cause concrete to expand and contract, leading to cracks. While these cycles are a natural part of the year, when temperatures and weather events are extreme, such as floods or droughts, the effects increase exponentially.

Heavy Loads: Your average car weighs around 3000 lbs, and the average SUV can top off at 5500 lbs. If you regularly have a few on your driveway, that constant pressure can stress the concrete. This also applies to any heavy outdoor furniture and equipment.

Tree Roots: While you can’t see them, the roots of your trees are constantly growing and spreading through your property. Roots can push up from the ground underneath your concrete slab, causing surface cracks and unevenness. While that may seem more cosmetic than dangerous, those cracks can lead to more substantial damage down the road.

Poor Installation: It won’t get better if it’s not done right the first time. If your driveway or patio was installed haphazardly due to improper mixing or pouring of concrete, the chance you will experience cracks prematurely increases.

Common Causes of Concrete Damage

Types Of Concrete Repair

You’ve figured out your root problem, so now you must decide what repair you need. There are three main types: Decorative, Surface, and Structural.

Decorative Repair

If your concrete driveway or patio appears to be in good structural shape but looks less attractive than you’d like, you can grab some materials like colored cement paste or color patch to restore it to its original beauty. This will also help your curb appeal and resale value.

Surface Repair

When minor cracks, general wear and tear, and spalling (chipping and flaking of the surface layer) occur, patching material can restore the concrete to its original appearance. It helps in the short run, but patching material is generally not a permanent fix. You may have to repeat the process periodically.

Structural Repair

If you are seeing signs of something more significant, and primarily if it’s affecting the structural integrity of your property, it’s time to call in the professionals.

Tools And Materials You’ll Need

You can repair your damaged concrete yourself if you feel confident in your construction skills. Here’s what you’ll need for your standard concrete repair toolkit:

  • Concrete patching compound or mix
  • Chisel and hammer
  • Wire brush
  • Pressure washer or hose
  • Trowel
  • Concrete sealant
  • Safety gear (gloves, goggles)

Getting the standard store-brand for most of these materials will help save you money, and many brands have ready-made sets available to purchase.

Step-by-step Guide On How To Repair Damaged Concrete

After you’ve completed your evaluation and gathered your supplies, it’s time to tackle those cracks! Here’s a quick walkthrough of common concrete repair steps.

Step 1: Clean The Area

Start by thoroughly cleaning the damaged area. Use a pressure washer or hose to remove dirt, debris, and any loose pieces of concrete. A wire brush can help scrub away stubborn dirt. Ensuring the repair area is clean allows the patching material to adhere well.

Step 2: Remove Damaged Concrete

For larger cracks or chipped areas, use a chisel and hammer to remove loose or damaged concrete. This might seem counterintuitive, but clearing these pieces creates a stable base for your repair. Wear safety goggles during this step to protect your eyes from flying debris.

Step 3: Prepare The Surface

Once the damaged concrete is removed, clean the area again to remove dust and small particles. Wet the surface slightly, making sure that there is no pooling or wet spots. You’re aiming for a damp surface; this helps the patching compound bond better.

Step 4: Apply The Concrete Patching Compound

Mix the concrete patching compound according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a trowel, apply the compound to the damaged area. Press it firmly into place, securely filling all the cracks and gaps. Smooth the surface with the trowel, blending it with the surrounding concrete into one even slab.

Step 5: Let It Cure

This is the hard part because while concrete begins to cure within 24 to 48 hours of the repair, it’s generally not quite ready for full use until at least seven days. You can likely drive on it without damaging it at that time, but it would be wise to wait at least 28 days before replacing any heavy equipment or furniture in the repaired area. Make sure to cordon off the area to keep cars and people away until the concrete is satisfactorily cured.

Step 6: Seal The Repair

After doing all this work, you want to add a concrete sealant to ensure water doesn’t seep into the concrete and damage it further. Concrete sealants are available in several forms, such as epoxy (for indoor use) and polyurethane (for indoor and outdoor use). Concrete sealants can be applied to protect the repair from future damage. The sealant acts as a barrier against moisture, chemicals, and wear. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

How To Repair Damaged Concrete

Tips For Long-Lasting Repairs

Now that you know how to repair damaged concrete, a job well done is only the beginning. Add these insider tips to your toolkit to ensure your work stays solid.

  • Use High-Quality Materials: Invest in good-quality patching compounds and sealants. They offer better durability and performance than less expensive solutions. Consult your local hardware store or home supply store for expert advice.
  • Follow Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for mixing and applying products. Trying to cut corners or rush a job will only cause bigger headaches later on.
  • Regular Maintenance: Inspect your concrete surfaces regularly for early signs of damage. Addressing minor issues promptly prevents more significant problems.
  • Avoid Heavy Loads: After you complete your concrete repairs, it’s an excellent time to reassess whether you need to have as much weight on the area.

When To Call A Professional

While DIY concrete repair is feasible for minor damages, some require professional intervention. If you see extensive cracking, sloping door or window frames, or water pooling in and around your foundation, you’ll be better off contacting a construction engineer or foundation repair specialist.

At Dalinghaus Construction, we’ve been helping homeowners from Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada repair their concrete and learn how to care for their most significant investment. We walk you through each process step, and our customer service doesn’t end when the job is completed. Find out how we can help you by scheduling a call today!

WRITTEN BY
Brian is one of the Co-Founders of Dalinghaus Construction. He has been in the foundation repair industry since 2005. During his career, he has been associated with helping over 4,000 homes and structures throughout California and Arizona.

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