Important Steps to Making Concrete Repairs That Last for Years
Posted on: 26 August 2016
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Most people today have some knowledge or experience in making concrete repairs. In fact, many homeowners opt for DIY as opposed to professional concrete repairs. However, a few months or years later, it becomes evident that the project wasn't a successful one. The repaired concrete surfaces begin to wear and crack. Where could you have gone wrong? Undertaking concrete repairs may be easy, but lasting repairs require adequate preparation and planning. Here are some of the key steps so that you can undertake successful and lasting concrete repairs.
Proper product selection
The products selected for concrete repairs play a critical role in the outcome of the project. While there are many quality products on the market today, the ideal one for your project should be particularly suited for your application. Some of the considerations to make should include the following:
- Exposure to freezing and thawing
- Impact of heavy traffic and machinery
- Exposure to chemicals
- Environmental conditions such as humidity and installation temperature.
One of the most common products used in concrete repairs is the mortar. When choosing the ideal one, ensure that its composition and properties can withstand any factors or harsh environmental conditions that the concrete structure is often exposed to.
Defined expectations
Plan the logistics of the repairs depending on the needs and limitations of the product you are going to use. It will help you in determining the ideal type of product for your repairs. For example, most concrete repairs are usually visible. Understanding this beforehand can help you take measures such as purchasing a pigmented sealer to hide the repairs.
Surface preparation
Surface preparation is the most crucial step of a concrete repair project. When the surface is poorly prepared, the repair material may not adhere well to the concrete, and this will cost you more repairs within a few years. Some of the crucial procedures during surface preparation include the following:
- Removing loose and unsound concrete pieces.
- Cleaning any oil spills, chemicals, and other contaminants from the surface.
- Defining the repairs perimeter depending on the extent of the damage.
Professional repairs
The key to successful and lasting concrete repairs is proper installation of the repair materials. DIY concrete repairs are not recommended unless you have extensive experience in the project. Although many people view the process of hiring a concrete contractor as costly and unnecessary, they can save you from future repairs as a result of incorrect installation.
Concrete repairs should last for many years when done in the right way. By following these steps, you can maintain the look of your concrete structures and avoid expensive repairs in the future as a result of the incorrect installation of repair materials.