Highlands Ranch Concrete Repair are not only cost effective, but it addresses safety hazards, improves aesthetics, and extends structural lifespan. It also saves on costly replacement projects.
A key for a successful repair is the compatibility between the repair material and the existing concrete. This requires a properly sized mix and sufficient bond strength to withstand stresses at the interface.
Concrete is tough stuff, but if it’s poured poorly or subject to environmental stresses, cracks will appear. These are easy to handle with a little preparation and a few basic tools. If you’re not comfortable taking on this project yourself, or you suspect that the cracks are a sign of more extensive problems with the slab, get in touch with a local concrete pro for free, no-commitment estimates.
Begin by sweeping away large debris, and vacuuming the cracks and surrounding area with a wet/dry vac. You’ll also need to clean the crack itself. This can be done with a pressure washer and detergent, or with a wire brush and a wet solvent such as mineral spirits. If the crack is exposed to the elements, anchor a piece of plastic loosely over it for 24 hours.
Next, choose a day that’s warm and dry for caulking. Most caulks require ambient temperatures of 50-100 degrees Fahrenheit for proper adherence. If you’re repairing cracks in flat surfaces, use gray, self-leveling caulk; for sloped or vertical areas, opt for a more viscous sealant that’s resistant to weather extremes. For either type, follow the manufacturer’s directions for application and curing times.
There’s no way to know exactly how much of the concrete has deteriorated until you open it up and expose it. This is why many engineers suggest a 25 percent contingency in the contract price for concrete repair projects.
While the cracks themselves can be repaired with a concrete patching compound, the most important step is to assess the overall condition of the slab. Wide cracks and numerous cracks spidering across the surface are signs of more serious problems and will need to be addressed by a professional. Cracks that are heaving or sagging, or leaking, also indicate the need for a professional.
No matter the extent of the damage, you’ll want to protect your investment with a high-quality, durable concrete coating. These are available in a variety of finishes, including water-based acrylic, epoxy and polyurethane. While they don’t stop the cracks from reappearing, they do help to limit future damage and maintain the structural integrity of the slab.
Repairing Chips
Concrete repair for chips can be a challenging project, as the damage is often hidden from view. However, if not addressed in a timely manner, these chips can quickly lead to larger problems such as leaks. A skilled professional, like the team at CMR, can restore these concrete surfaces and prevent further damage to your structure or building.
The first step is to remove any loose surface material using a wire brush or chisel. Afterward, you should carefully tap around the area with a hammer to hear if there are any hollow sounds. If there are, the concrete underneath has deteriorated to the point that it can easily chip away. This is a sign that you should hire a concrete contractor for an emergency repair before the problem gets worse.
Once you have removed any loose material, you should roughen the surface to help the repair bond to the existing concrete. Depending on the type of concrete and damage, this may include wire brushing, shot blasting, grinding, or other methods. It is also important to apply a bonding agent to further help the new repair adhere. Then, you can apply the concrete patching material. Again, the specific product you need will vary based on the damage and type of concrete, but most repairs are made with epoxy or polymer resins.
For small concrete cracks or chips, you can use Sakrete Fast-Setting Cement Patcher. For larger cracks or chips, you can step up to Sakrete Pro-Mix All-Purpose Cement Mix. When selecting the product, make sure you know the height and width of your repair area to select the correct package size. If you are repairing a damaged corner, you can also use a skim coat of Sakrete Top ‘N Bond to smooth the edges and blend it into the surrounding concrete.
For a permanent solution, you can use Green Umbrella PCR(tm). This product is designed to provide a strong, permanent repair for concrete surfaces that are spalling, trip hazards, or cracked and chipped. This product uses a high early strength component and a zero-shrinkage formula that will provide a long-lasting repair. The best part is that it can be used in half the time as traditional patch products.
Repairing Leaks
Concrete tanks and piping are the backbone of many plant storage systems. Over time, these structures may develop leaks that require prompt and effective repair to prevent material loss, environmental issues and structural damage.
Leaks in concrete can be caused by a variety of factors, including age and weathering. Heavy foot traffic and vehicles can also stress the surface, leading to cracks, spalling and other forms of damage. While some types of repairs are relatively minor, others can be major projects that involve replacing the concrete itself or installing drainage systems to address water pressures in the structure.
Most concrete leaks can be repaired using a hydraulic cement product like SAKRETE Plug-tite. The process starts by dampening the prepared opening with a rag and cleaning away any loose debris with a putty knife or trowel. Next, force the hydraulic cement into the chase with a hand or a rubber-gloved tool and smooth and trim to the surrounding concrete. Plug-tite is fast-setting and will stop active leaks within a few minutes.
The durability of concrete tank repair depends on the quality of the materials used, proper surface preparation and skilled craftsmanship. Regular inspections, routine maintenance and corrosion prevention strategies are also critical for maximizing the life of your concrete tanks.
Polyjacking is a cost-effective and quick way to raise and level concrete slabs that have sunken. Unlike traditional mudjacking, this process uses polyurethane foam to evenly lift the sunken concrete. This type of concrete repair is commonly performed for sidewalks, driveways, patios, porches and garage slabs. To begin, a series of injection holes are strategically drilled into the sunken concrete area. Then, the polyurethane is evenly injected through these holes. After the concrete is lifted, it is cured with a concrete curing compound to seal the repair. If you have a sunken concrete area in need of repair, contact us for a free estimate. Our experienced concrete contractors can get your concrete repaired quickly and professionally. We specialize in residential and commercial concrete repair services. Call today! (713) 298-8706!
Repairing Slabs
Concrete slabs in driveways, patios, pools, and garages can be damaged by settlement, heaving, freeze-thaw cycles, or improper construction. A repair that addresses all the issues causing damage will provide the best results. Repairs to concrete slab surfaces can include patching, crack injection, resurfacing, and slab replacement.
Cracks can occur anywhere in a concrete slab. The extent of the cracking depends on the size and severity of the original fissure as well as the underlying cause.
For small cracks that are cosmetic and not structurally important, a topical seal may be sufficient. For larger cracks, the use of epoxy resins can restore the integrity of the concrete. Cracks that may move dynamically are best sealed with polyurethane sealants, which can expand and contract with the concrete to prevent water intrusion and damage.
Uneven slabs can result from heaving, freezing and thawing cycles, poor drainage, settlement, or improper construction. Depending on the size of the unevenness, patching or resurfacing may be appropriate. If the heaving is extensive and involves significant amounts of concrete, slab replacement is the best option.
A common problem with concrete slabs is the formation of control joints, which are intentionally weaker areas within the slab. While these are intended to reduce the amount of stress on a concrete slab, they can lead to a number of problems. For example, a large area of an unsupported concrete slab can settle, creating an unsupported and unstable surface. Concrete that has been poured over the control joint can break off as it shifts.
For these types of problems, underpinning is a concrete repair technique that can be used to stabilize and support a concrete slab. This process requires excavating under your slab and installing piers that reach down to stable soil. The piers can then support the slab from underneath, mitigating any further structural damage.
Although some minor concrete repairs can be done by the average homeowner, more complex and extensive damage to concrete slabs may require the assistance of a professional contractor. For this type of concrete repair, it is essential to allow for adequate time for meticulous assessment and proper execution of the repairs.