Cracking on concrete is a problem that most people encounter in their homes. This can be quite irritating to find your concrete surfaces chalking and cracking. However, do not despair, fixing spalling concrete is something that you can easily do on your own. Well, in this guide, I will explain to you how you can go about it and get it rectified.
Repair Spalling Concrete
Spalling concrete is characterized by the surface layer of the concrete to crack, chip or scale off. This can be a result of freeze-thaw cycles, the use of de-icing salts, or poor concrete placement. Not only does it look bad, but it can also degrade your concrete at the same time. It is repairable if done early to avoid worsening the situation. Let me explain to you how to repair spalling concrete in a few easy steps.
What You’ll Need to Repair Spalling Concrete
Before you start, gather these materials:
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Concrete cleaner: Removes dirt and debris from the concrete surface.
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Pressure washer or hose: Cleans the surface thoroughly with water.
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Wire brush or broom: Scrubs off loose particles and remaining dirt.
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Concrete resurfacer: Fills and repairs the spalled areas.
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Mixing bucket: Mixes the resurfacer with water.
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Trowel or squeegee: Applies and smooths the resurfacer.
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Safety gear (gloves, goggles, mask): Protects your hands, eyes, and lungs during the repair process.
Step 1: Clean the Surface
First, you are required to wash the concrete surface. Clean the area to clear out all dirt, debris, and any loose concrete. Clean the area with water using a pressure washer. If you do not have a pressure washer then a garden hose can also be used and the results will still be impressive. After that, use a wire brush or a broom to remove all the remaining particles from the surface.
Cleaning is important because it assists the repair material to bond well to the concrete. Ensure that the surface is clean before proceeding to the next step because any form of dirt will hinder the process.
Step 2: Prepare the Concrete Resurfacer
Second, mix the concrete resurfacer. It is recommended that you follow the instructions that come with the package on how to mix it. Typically, you will need to pour water into the dry mix in a bucket and mix it properly. Mix it well until you have a homogenous mix of the ingredients. The resurfacer should be viscous and thick like pancake batter.
You must not mix more resurfacer than what can be applied in 15-20 minutes of mixing time. This helps to avoid the situation where it solidifies before one can put it to use.
Step 3: Apply the Resurfacer
Now the time has come to apply the concrete resurfacer. Place a small amount of the mixture on the spalled area. It should be applied uniformly and for this, you can use a trowel or squeegee depending on the type of floor. Ensure that you spread it over the affected area to the extent that it forms a thin layer. For large areas, divide them into sections so that the product is applied evenly on the respective area.
Level the resurfacer to match the neighboring concrete. It is advisable to take time to achieve a uniform color coat. If the spalling is deep you may have to apply a second layer after the first layer has set.
Step 4: Let It Cure
After applying the resurfacer, allow it to cure. Always adhere to the curing time recommended by the manufacturer. Normally, it is required that the surface should be kept wet for the first 24 hours after the application of the plaster. Water the area if necessary but do not saturate it. One should not walk on the repaired surface or put heavy objects on it during this period.
Proper curing allows the resurfacer to stick well and strengthen. This step is very important if one wants the repair to be permanent.
Step 5: Finish and Seal
After the resurfacer has cured, the surface can be finished. If necessary, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any raised grain, etc. After sanding, ensure that the region is cleaned up well to ensure that there is no presence of dust or any debris.
To ensure that the repaired concrete is protected, use a concrete sealer. The sealer will also ensure that there will not be future cases of spalling and will also make the surface less permeable to moisture and chemicals. Use the sealer as directed by the manufacturer or the sealer professional who applied the sealer.
Conclusion
Repairing spalling concrete may seem daunting, but with the right tools and steps, you can do it yourself. Clean the surface well, prepare and apply the resurfacer, let it cure, and finish with a sealer. By following this guide, you can restore your concrete surfaces and extend their life.
Remember, the key is to address spalling early. Regular maintenance and sealing can prevent spalling and keep your concrete looking great. So, take action and enjoy a smooth, durable concrete surface.