Concrete is a durable material, but over time, it can crack, flake, or deteriorate due to weather, wear, and improper installation. The key to repairing damaged concrete effectively is understanding the type of damage and applying the right repair method. Below, we’ll walk through three crucial factors to inspect before repairing concrete and how to perform common repairs, including fixing broom-finished concrete.
Three Important Things to Understand Before Repairing Concrete
Is the Concrete Deteriorating Beyond Repair?
Before starting a repair, assess the structural integrity of the concrete. If pieces of concrete are falling off and there’s no sign of strong, intact concrete underneath, then the damage is too severe for a simple repair. In cases where the base material has completely failed, a full replacement is necessary. Patching over severely deteriorated concrete will only serve as a temporary fix and will not last long.
Understanding Cracks in Concrete
Cracks in concrete require special attention because concrete or cement cannot simply be poured over cracks. Any overlay or new concrete placed on top will eventually reflect those cracks due to movement. This is especially important for driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
For cracks and expansion joints that need to move freely, a flexible repair solution is required. Some common flexible repair options include:
Polyurethane injection for vertical walls.
Sika Flex or a high-quality caulking for driveways, sidewalks, and patios to create a flexible and durable crack repair that accommodates movement.
Use an Acrylic Bonding Agent for Strong Repairs
For concrete repairs that require resurfacing, applying an acrylic bonding agent is essential. This ensures that the new material adheres properly to the existing surface. Without a bonding agent, the new layer will not stick and will likely fail over time. Additionally, using a parge mix with the bonding agent creates a strong and lasting repair.
How to Repair Broom-Finished Concrete
Broom-finished concrete, commonly used for patios, sidewalks, and driveways, can develop surface flaking over time. Fortunately, this type of concrete can be repaired effectively. Here’s how:
Grind off the loose, flaking surface – Use a grinder to remove weak or deteriorated areas.
Clean the surface thoroughly – Remove all dust and debris to ensure a strong bond.
Apply an acrylic bonding agent – This step is crucial to ensure proper adhesion.
Apply a resurfacer – Use a product such as Ardex, Mapei Planitop X, or a sand-cement mixture.
Finish the surface – Once applied, texture the resurfacer to match the existing broom finish.
Watch My Videos on Small Concrete Repairs
For a visual guide, check out my video where I demonstrate small concrete repairs in action. And stay tuned—I’ll be making another video soon on how to repair flaking broom-finished concrete using resurfacing techniques!
Beginner Concrete Repair Tips
DIY Concrete Foundation Parging
Four ways to bond new concrete to old concrete
Final Thoughts
Concrete repairs can extend the lifespan of your surfaces if done correctly. Always assess the damage, understand the limitations of concrete patching, and use the right materials for a long-lasting repair. Whether you're sealing cracks or resurfacing flaking areas, following these best practices will help maintain strong and durable concrete surfaces.
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