3 Things to Do When Repairing Your Concrete Patio

A concrete patio that has cracks is no place to spend warmer days. Unfortunately, this kind of damage can happen as your outdoor space ages. One way to make sure that it stays in great shape is by conducting a concrete repair job as soon as it's needed. You've let these imperfections linger long enough; here are tips on how to fix the problem:

Prepare the Area

Before you start your home project, it's best to prepare the cracked area first. Use a small hammer and chisel to widen the crack and dislodge any loose or crumbling pieces of concrete. This will help the patching material stick. Be careful not to chip out large sections of the slab.

 

After you're done, remove the debris with a wire brush. If you want to, clean the area with a pressure washer. No matter what, make sure to get rid of all dust and debris from the cracks with a vacuum. Leaving some particles behind can compromise your repair.

Pick a Repair Product

Remember that cracks can't be fixed with concrete since it has aggregate rock pieces that are too large to fit into crevices. Instead, use a polymer-based filler that you can inject using a caulking gun. This also lets the slab shift over time, while maintaining its structural integrity. For smaller damage, it's best to go with a vinyl compound, since it won't easily peel off the surface.

 

Even though a patch will always be noticeable to some degree, you can minimize its visual impact by choosing a filler that closely matches the slab color. Another way is to paint the entire surface to hide the repairs.

Apply the Filler

Some products tend to separate if they're left sitting on a shelf for a long time, so you should mix them well first. Before filling the crack, squirt a small amount on a piece of cardboard to see if the consistency is thick enough.

 

Apply it by forcing the filler into one part of the crack, and then slowly draw it across the entire damaged area. Make sure that it fully settles before moving on. Once everything is patched up, let the material cure for 24 hours so it hardens.

 

Cracks in your concrete patio aren't just unsightly; they also collect debris and invite weed growth. So, be sure to follow these steps, and use the necessary concrete repair product once you spot the issue to avoid further problems.