When a concrete slab cracks, crumbles, tilts or otherwise deteriorates within 5 to ten years of being installed, a homeowner has good reason to be disappointed. This is especially true of a slab that is in perfect condition but for one reason or another has tilted or sunken. Too many people have replaced these types of defects with new concrete, when they could have simply raised the slab through concrete lifting.
Concrete, what an amazing material! I can't say enough about it. Here is a material that you can make out of four basic ingredients (sand, gravel, cement and water). Once mixed, it can be placed with relative ease (because it is in a semi-liquid state). Then, when dry it can become hard as a rock! However, concrete can and does crack because it naturally absorbs water. When it comes time to patch, consider additives or epoxies to help your patch stick and your concrete last longer.
There are numerous companies that manufacture concrete crack patch compounds. Some of these are regional and some are national brands. I have listed several national brand companies that make great products for concrete repair.
Concrete floor repair begins with the preparation. Before you mix any patching material, first make sure your concrete repair job doesn't involve any tapered edges to the patch area. Follow instructions for mixing the patching material and be sure to wet the cracked surface if you aren't using a bonding agent. The best time for concrete repairs is to apply when the weather is cloudy and damp, and 55 degrees F. Follow these tips for concrete patching success.
There are many steps to laying a concrete overlay. The following article will walk you through the prep period to the cleaning up period. It is important to remember to have the correct materials including Portland cement, fine and coarse sand and pea gravel. Work in sections and be sure to spray the surface with a curing compound (or cover with plastic) when its finished.
The most common problem with concrete drives, sidewalks and patios is surface spalling. The upper wear surface simply flakes off. The attractive surface is now replaced with bumpy aggregate. This can be repaired by adding a concrete overlay. Adhesion is the key to installing a new concrete overlay, as well as the thickness you choose to apply.
Concrete is probably one of the most abused construction materials that I am aware of. It is treated with very little respect by many of the people who install it. The problem, I believe, is the fact that a huge percentage of the individuals who work with this wonderful construction product do not realize that it is a very technical building material.
Water can be concrete's worst enemy as it is being placed or finished. However, after concrete has been properly placed and finished, it is extremely critical that the moist concrete be cured. There are several ways to ensure that your concrete remains moist, and curing compounds are the key. To defend against freezing/thawing water damage that occurs in concrete, consider applying a sealant.
I intend to write a book about concrete; the subject fascinates me. However, in the meantime, read as much as you can about this wonderful material. Consider obtaining as many publications as possible from the Portland Cement Association and the American Concrete Institute. Also, check out the following list of manufacturers of concrete curing compounds and sealants for your next job.
The following publications are excellent source materials for facts about how concrete should be mixed, placed, finished and cured. All of these things must be done properly to ensure that your concrete will be durable and long lasting. While the ingredients in concrete are common - sand, gravel and water - many people don't realize that cement is crucial for making durable concrete.
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