Concrete is a very useful material. You can usually find it in a lot of applications, from construction to housing itself. However, it’s not an infallible material! A lot of factors can influence cracks, spalling, or other issues.
Unfortunately, not all cracks are built uniformly. Some repairs, when not done well, might end up worsening the problem – which holds dangerous consequences.
In this blog, we’ll talk about mistakes that occur when it comes to repairing cracks in concrete!
Forgetting To Assess Crack
Sadly, one mistake is that people rush into repairing the crack without bothering to understand the real root cause behind it. Not all cracks are built or made the same. Cracks and their solution are as good as deeply understanding the real root cause behind what caused them.
Thus, if the crack is only surface-level, it does not require as much a solution. If you compare it to a deeper crack, checking it and what caused it is less thorough. A lot of things are capable of causing cracks.
However, the most common ones in buildings are:
- Corrosion of the reinforcement
- Moisture changes
- Creep
- Settlement of soil
- Foundation movement
- Bad quality of material
- Wear and tear
- Poor concrete workmanship
Tips:
- Research first before hiring a professional to help take care of the crack repair in concrete that needs mending.
- Preemptively, before construction, ensure that the structure does not have any leaks.
- Before deciding to have the crack fixed, you need to perform a thorough inspection. Better also if you consult a professional to assess if the damage is cosmetic or veers towards structural levels.
Cleaning Prep For Crack
A common mistake when cleaning cracks in concrete is skipping the cleaning process. Another variable is that the cleaning needs to be done correctly, especially with older concrete cracks.
Moreover, dirt, or even vegetation can be found inside the crack. These can act as a barrier to the materials bonding effectively. As a result, your repair is less effective and compromised.
Tips:
- Clean your crack thoroughly. If there is any loose material from the crack, get it.
- You might want to check if the crack also has living vegetation inside it. If pavement has not been looked after for a while, signs of vegetation may have gotten itself a place in the cracks. Think: plants. Plants need removal before initiating and completing efforts to repair cracks.
- When cleaning, you can opt to use an air compressor, wire brush or water. Make sure to clean before putting in your filler or sealant.
Wrong Repair Material
Another mistake is if you use the wrong material to seal the crack. Cracks need different kinds of material as they have various applications. If you use a product not compatible with the type of crack you have, you may end up compromising the crack.
Tips:
- Consult a professional to assess what kind of crack repair material is needed.
- You also may need to look for repair material that can match the size, function, and application of the crack. Structural cracks are good to use with epoxy. Meanwhile, something concrete works best for shallower ones.
Mixing Mistake
The process of repairing a crack is intensive. Thus, details need more monitoring, especially when they are being mixed. Many concrete materials for repair have formed in powder and liquid. Thus, to get the optimal strength and bond you need, the mixing needs to be precise.
Tips:
- Pay more attention to the amounts needed for mixing.
- Always refer to the instructions the manufacturer has set. Don’t forget to use the right water-to-material ratio.
Uneven Surfaces
Your surface should be smooth. Not only does an uneven surface look less visually engaging and pretty, but it’s also susceptible to more cracking, especially because the water can get trapped in that. Thus, it is crucial to ensure your surface is smooth and even.
Tip:
- Even the surface after application. Use a putty knife or trowel.
Wrapping Up
Repairing cracks in concrete is no joke. A lot of these mistakes stem from oversights and lack of attention to detail. If you ever feel confused or overwhelmed, you can consult experts and professionals so that your final application won’t be compromised.
