When you have an old concrete driveway or patio, there is always a high possibility that cracks will appear. Through wear and tear, traffic and weather conditions, and time, the concrete starts to deteriorate, and there will be some space between the concrete and the rebar. These cracks are not only cosmetic, they can also become a much larger problem if water gets in. The good news is that you don’t always need to call a professional to do it for you. But, there are techniques and procedures which you can follow to repair these cracks on your own.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
First of all, it is necessary to prepare all the necessary tools and materials for the work. Here’s a simple list:
A stiff broom or brush
A chisel and hammer (if needed)
A shop vacuum or a regular vacuum cleaner
Concrete crack filler or patching compound
A putty knife or trowel
A bucket of water and a sponge
As the saying goes, “Well begun is half done.” Having the right tools and materials in place makes work easier.
Step 2: Clean the Cracks
The first process in crack sealing is crack sweeping. With a stiff broom or brush sweep all the area to clear any dirt, debris or small pieces of concrete. While cleaning the deep cracks, one can use a vacuum to remove the hidden dust particles from the cracks. If the edges of a crack are irregular they should be ground with a chisel and hammer. Cleaning makes sure that the filler has the right and correct adhesion on the surface.
Step 3: Prepare the Crack Filler
All concrete fillers should be used directly, although some of them have to be diluted with water. Check the directions on the product that you have selected. If it’s a premixed filler, you can use it directly from the container where it is packed. In the case of powdered fillers, mix according to the directions given below: Ensure that the filler is of a good texture to ensure that it will not be difficult to apply.
Step 4: Wet the Area
It is recommended to moisten the crack with water before applying the filler. To make the area slightly wet, it is recommended to use a sponge or a spray bottle. This step assists the filler to adhere well to the concrete as compared to the smooth surface of the concrete. Do not wet the crack but ensure that it is moist; You should never wet the crack but ensure that it is wet.
Step 5: Apply the Filler
Now let’s take your crack filler and proceed to fill the gap gently. Mix it with a hoe or shovel and apply the material using a putty knife or trowel. If you have deeper cracks, you may apply the joint filler in layers. Do not apply the filler on the surface and then add more of it before the first layer has dried. Finish the surface with a trowel such that it becomes a part of the concrete and there are no conspicuous joints.
Step 6: Let It Dry
Afterward, place the filler and allow it to dry. The drying time will vary from product to product, so please refer to the instructions provided for more details. Do not walk or drive across the repaired area until it is set and cured. This helps in setting the filler well and also to last longer.
Step 7: Add a Sealant
If you want to protect the repaired area then you can apply a concrete sealant. Sealant is used to ensure that water and dirt do not penetrate these cracks. It also gives a glamorous look to your driveway or patio. Roller or brush the sealant and allow it to dry as directed in the instructions given by the manufacturer.
Step 8: Maintain the Surface
It helps maintain the beauty of your driveway or patio and also ensures that there are no more cracks in the future. Clean the surface often to clear it of dirt and other kinds of particles. Do not allow water to stagnate in some parts of the house. You can also reseal the concrete every few years to maintain the concrete strength and its sturdiness.
Concluding
Sealing cracks on an old concrete driveway or patio is a very easy and straightforward task to undertake. But with the right equipment and a little time, you can save your surface and avoid further deterioration. If you follow these instructions, then you will be able to reduce the amount of money you spend and obtain a visually appealing outdoor area. Nevertheless, it is important to note that small problems should be fixed as they occur in order to avoid having to replace large parts in the future.