Hairlinecracks in a concretepatio can be repaired quickly with simple methods and inexpensive materials to make it look better.
Codes and Regulations
Generally,repairs to concrete patiosare not subject to codes or municipal regulations.
Larger scale repairs, such as patio demolishment, may require permitting.
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Such elastomeric fillers have the benefit of allowing the concrete to slightly shift over time while maintaining structural stability.
After the repair,surfacing the entire concretepatio orpainting itare two options for completely hiding thecrack repair.
If you intend to do this, just see to it that you choose a paintable crack filler.
For most patch materials, both the air and the concrete must be between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
The concrete should be perfectly dry and no precipitation should be forecast for the next 24 hours.
Covered concrete patios that remain fully dry can be patched during precipitation.
Tap the back of the chisel lightly with the hammer to force it about 1/4-inch into the crack.
Continue to follow the crack as you tap, being careful not to chip out large sections of concrete.
give a shot to maintain a width-to-depth ratio of 2:1 at all times.
Brush in the direction of the crack.
Add the Solid Crack Filler
Assess the depth of the crack.
One way to add solid filler is to dispense clean sand by hand through a funnel.
Another option is to force a closed-cell backer rod into the crack.
Three-quarter-inch backer rod is designed to fit into 1/2-inch cracks.
Force the backer rod into the crack as much as it’s possible for you to with your fingers.
Cut off the backer rod when you reach higher areas that do not need filler.
check that that the backer rod is firmly in place before proceeding to the next step.
Apply the Concrete Crack Filler
Cut off the end of the applicator tip.
Shake the crack filler container if necessary.
For high areas, draw the putty knife in the direction of the crack to flatten the filler.
For wider cracks and missing or tilted concrete, consult a mason or other concrete repair professional.
Since concrete is porous,sealing itafterit’s pouredcan help prevent cracks from forming for many years.
Patching concrete cracks withconcretewill not hold or bond.
you could onlypour concreteover already repaired concrete cracks correctly fixed with a concrete crack filler product.
Forhairline cracks, try a ready-to-pour liquid cement crack filler.
Larger cracks may require concrete crack filler sand rather than liquid.
