Lara Beck
If you're looking to fix a cut in your concrete patio, you've come to the right place. This guide will take you through the steps to repair cuts and cracks in your concrete patio and restore your outdoor space. Concrete patios are durable but can crack due to extreme weather conditions or heavy loads. Luckily, most cracks can be easily fixed as a DIY project, but you'll need the right tools and safety gear to get the job done.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Problem | Cracks in the concrete patio |
| Cause | Increase drying, poorly laid concrete, temperature, frequency of use |
| Solution | Waterproofing solutions, work on the subgrade, modify the concrete mix, install control joints |
| Tools | Polymer-based concrete crack filler, crack filler applicator, hammer, chisel, wire brush, shop vacuum, funnel, sand, backer rod, patch compounds |
| Steps | Clean around the crack, widen the crack, remove processing residues, apply the solid crack filler, add the concrete crack filler, flatten the filler, protect the fixed patio for 24 hours |
| Tips | Do not use anti-icing products, install an awning, avoid cleaning with aggressive products, do not place heavy materials, install a pergola, set up an umbrella |
What You'll Learn
Clean around the crack
Before you start repairing the cracks, it is important to clean the area. Clear out any dirt, debris, leaves, and any other objects that can obstruct your work. If you are dealing with a small crack, you don't have to remove all the furniture from the patio. However, if the cracks are spread across the patio, you might need to do some shifting. Remember that crack fixing is dusty work, so make sure to mask up and wear protective gear.
If you want your crack fillers to stick better, you must widen the crack and create more space with a hammer and a chisel. Knock away any loose or crumbling concrete from the surface of the crack.
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Widen the crack with a hammer and chisel
Widening the crack with a hammer and chisel is an important step in repairing cracks in a concrete patio. This step is necessary to create more space for the crack fillers to stick better. It is also a dusty job, so it is important to mask up and wear protective gear.
To begin, use a hammer and chisel to knock away any loose or crumbling concrete from the surface of the crack. This process will help widen the crack and create the space needed for the repair. It is important to be careful and use the right tools for this step, as using too much force or the wrong type of chisel can damage the concrete further.
Additionally, if the crack is only small, it is not necessary to remove all the furniture from the patio. However, if the cracks are spread across the patio surface, some shifting of furniture may be required.
By widening the crack, you will be able to better fill and repair it, ensuring a longer-lasting and more effective solution.
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Remove processing residues
Removing processing residues from a concrete patio can be done through mechanical or chemical means. Mechanical methods involve physically scraping or grinding the residue off the surface using tools like scrapers, concrete grinders, or mastic removal blocks. While these methods can be effective, they may require heavy manual labour and could potentially leave unsightly marks on the patio.
Chemical methods, on the other hand, typically require less labour and carry a lower risk of damaging the patio. Chemicals like Prosoco Cleaner Degreaser, Wax & Cure, Cure & Seal, and Oil & Grease Stain Remover can be used to prepare the floor for further treatment. This method may take more time, especially if multiple applications are needed for thicker residues.
When choosing a chemical remover, opt for one that is suitable for the particular type of residue present on the patio. For instance, chemical removers designed for carpet glue can effectively dissolve and remove adhesive residues.
Additionally, mechanical methods like grinding, shot blasting, and scarifying are preferred for removing thicker and more adherent materials like epoxy or mastic. These methods physically remove the residue, leaving a clean and smooth surface.
- Assess the type and thickness of the residue, as well as the condition of the concrete patio. This will help determine the most suitable removal method.
- For mechanical removal, use the appropriate tools like scrapers, grinders, or mastic removal blocks. Ensure the work area is well-ventilated and wear protective gear, including eye protection, earplugs, and gloves.
- For chemical removal, select a product specifically designed for the type of residue present. Follow the instructions on the product label, ensuring proper ventilation and the use of recommended safety equipment.
- If dealing with a large area or thicker residues, consider renting specialised equipment like floor grinders, scarifiers, or swing machines. These machines are designed to handle different types of residues efficiently.
- Always test a small area first when using a new removal method or product to ensure it does not damage the concrete.
- Be cautious when working with chemicals, and follow safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Proper ventilation and protective gear are crucial when working with potentially harmful substances.
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Apply a solid crack filler
You only need a solid crack filler when working with deep cracks. Ascertain the depth of the crack. If it is deeper than 1/4 inch, use a solid crack filler to bring it to a 1/4-inch depth.
One way to add solid filler is to dispense clean sand through a funnel. Hold the funnel with one hand and slowly pour a small amount of sand with the other. This method is very cheap and lets you vary the height of the crack filler as you go.
Another option is to use a closed-cell backer rod. Force the backer rod into the crack with your fingers. A 3/4-inch backer rod is designed to fit into a 1/2-inch crack. Cut off the backer rod when you reach higher areas that do not need filler. If you reach sections where it is difficult to press the rod with your fingers, use a blunt tool such as a paint-stirring stick.
Apply the concrete crack filler
Shake the crack filler container to mix the solution well. With your crack applicator, slowly fill the crack, allowing the filler to settle. Ensure you cover the entire crack before levelling.
Flatten the filler
After applying the crack filler, flatten high areas and ensure they are levelled. For surfaces that appear low, add more patch compounds to the area before levelling.
Protect the fixed patio for 24 hours
Once you are done fixing your patio cracks, protect the fixed area from dirt, water, or pets. Allow the patch material to dry for at least 24 hours before considering painting, sealing, or even stepping on it.
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Flatten the filler
Once you've applied the crack filler, you'll need to flatten it. This is an important step in achieving a perfect finish. Use a trowel to smooth out any high areas, ensuring they are levelled evenly. For low areas, simply add more of the patch compound before levelling.
If you're working with a large area, it's worth investing in a power trowel. This will make light work of flattening the filler, and ensure a professional finish.
It's important to get the filler level right at this stage, as you won't be able to adjust it later. Take your time and work methodically, checking your work as you go.
Once you've finished, leave the filler to dry for at least 24 hours. During this time, make sure the area is protected from dirt, water, and pets.
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Frequently asked questions
Concrete patio cracks can be fixed as a DIY project, but if the cracks are too large, you may need to call a professional. First, clear out any dirt, debris, leaves, or other objects that may obstruct your work. Then, use a hammer and chisel to widen the crack and knock away any loose or crumbling concrete. Next, scrub the surface with a wire brush and a shop vacuum to remove dust and debris. If the crack is deep, use a funnel to dispense sand into the crack until it is level, or insert a backer rod. Finally, fill the crack with a concrete crack filler, flatten the filler, and let it dry for at least 24 hours.
To prevent cracks in your concrete patio, avoid using anti-icing products, as these can degrade the concrete. Instead, allow ice to melt naturally. You can also install an awning or a pergola to protect the patio from direct sunlight and extreme weather conditions. Additionally, avoid placing heavy materials or furniture on the patio, as this can weaken the concrete.
If your concrete patio is already damaged, you can try to resurface, seal, or repair the concrete surface. If the damage is extensive, you may need to call a professional to assess the situation and recommend repairs.
If your concrete patio has low spots or unevenness, you can try to level it yourself using a concrete resurfacer or by grinding down high spots. Alternatively, you can hire a professional to assess the issue and recommend the best solution.
