No matter how carefully one installs concrete, it can deteriorate over time. The deterioration can be due to several factors, such as improper installation, wear and tear due to foot traffic, corrosion, and freeze-thaw cycle.
Fortunately, minor concrete repairs can usually be done at home using basic tools such as a light hammer, a concrete chisel, a trowel, and some fresh concrete for the patching mix.
However, you may need heavier equipment or require help from professional concrete contractors for more extensive repairs, such as fixing severe structural cracks. Whichever the case may be, here are four mistakes to avoid when repairing concrete.
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Improper Evaluation
Polyurethane or epoxy solutions are the go-to fixes for most people when repairing concrete cracks. The problem with polyurethane and epoxy injections is that they often result from improper problem diagnoses. Since the true cause of the damage and the weak zone weren’t properly identified, it won’t take long for the bond to break.
Be sure to complete the evaluation stage when repairing concrete. Don’t just focus on what’s visible to the eyes. Analyze the problem closely. If the concrete component isn’t at risk of collapsing, assess it in segments, beginning with a short visual inspection to answer these questions:
- Is the crack limited to a specific area or an extensive one?
- Does the damage penetrate the concrete framework more deeply?
- Are the cracks spreading?
Answering the questions above will help you determine if the crack is structural or only on the surface. Notify a contractor if you see significant diagonal cracks — only attempt fixing the problem yourself if the damage isn’t causing a structural issue.
Using the Wrong Tools and Materials
Hardware outlets are filled with concrete repair tools and equipment. There are so many options for anyone to pick from. However, another common mistake when repairing concrete is using just any equipment or material without conducting adequate research. Of course, this problem usually arises when someone does the repairs themselves at home without consulting experts. As a result, a more effective tool or material is missed.
For example, it’s crucial to employ materials tougher than concrete, like carbon fiber, when fixing severe concrete damage. Carbon fiber is increasingly being used in construction activities due to its durability. Given its strength, it also offers a more permanent solution for specific concrete problems. It doesn’t mean that high-quality concrete can’t be used to fix the damage. It’s just that every crack is unique, and homeowners and contractors alike must think outside the box and must always employ the best solution to the issue at hand to prevent it from recurring.
Skipping Some Preparatory Steps
Before beginning the work, it’s important to prepare the area to be repaired first. The problem is that many people skip some preparatory steps, like cleaning out the cracks before patching them. Doing so will only lead to an unsuccessful repair or may even worsen the problem.
For example, concrete mix preparation is a crucial step everyone shouldn’t take for granted. Ensuring that it has the appropriate texture and that it’s uniform, among others, requires many unique procedures. That’s why sometimes it’s best to let the experts do the job.
Another preparatory step that’s commonly missed is ensuring that the weather is suitable for repair. Rain shouldn’t be expected during the day of repair to allow the filler to dry completely. It also shouldn’t be too hot, so the patch doesn’t dry too quickly.
Neglecting Aftercare
Overlooking aftercare is also among the key mistakes when repairing concrete. For example, the surface will become more resilient to cracks only if you seal the concrete after all the patching. However, once the patch or filler has dried completely, most people think they can leave their concrete as is and let it be exposed to more stress, which only leads to more cracks and additional repairs required.
There’s also a need to keep the concrete’s surrounding area tidy or free from dirt, plants, and other objects that could cause concrete cracks. Even liquid spills can affect concrete, so clean it up immediately as part of your aftercare and maintenance routine.
It’s also a good idea to have experts regularly check your concrete for even the most minor issues before they become more significant problems. Concrete contractors have the tools required for more accurate inspection to help you identify the aftercare measures your concrete currently needs.
Conclusion
Concrete will eventually require repair, especially when constantly exposed to the environment. Some problems can be fixed without professional help. However, if you want the best results, consider working with the experts to avoid costly mistakes like the ones mentioned in this article. And even if you’re letting concrete contractors do the job, it’s still best to keep the things discussed above in mind to ensure that your concrete structure is getting the proper repair and maintenance it needs.
