Aggregate concrete is a beautiful material that can hold up to years of use, but it’s not indestructible. It’s prone to cracking and can be damaged by cars and people.
It’s important to fix cracked aggregate concrete quickly to prevent further damage and protect the integrity of the structure. To do this, prepare the surface by sweeping and cleaning out the crack or hole to ensure that the repair will bond properly. More by clicking here.
Filling a Crack
If you see a crack in your exposed aggregate concrete, it is important to get it repaired right away. Hairline cracks that are only visible from inside the home or on the surface of a patio can usually be filled with repair caulk, but large cracks that can be seen both from inside and outside the property should be inspected by a professional. Pourable masonry crack filler works well for these small repairs.
Exposed aggregate concrete uses a mix of decorative aggregates in place of cement to help create unique, speckled concrete surfaces. While this style is popular in homes, it’s also often used for commercial spaces that are frequently used. This type of concrete is durable and can hold up to heavy traffic, but accidents and the elements can still cause damage that leaves a crack.
All you need to repair these cracks is a ready-to-use crack filler that comes in a quart squeeze bottle. To use, dampen the area to be filled and apply the compound as directed by the manufacturer.
Sealing a Crack
Concrete surfaces need to be properly sealed and maintained. Over time, moisture can cause cracks in concrete that need to be filled. Using an exposed aggregate crack filler, you can repair the damage and keep water from seeping into the structure of your home or business.
Before starting, sweep the surface around the cracked area and clean out the crack with a brush. This will remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the repair process and prevent the filler from adhering to the concrete.
Next, mix the concrete patching compound according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a trowel to apply the compound to the crack, making sure it is completely filling the space and reaching up to the surface of the concrete. Smooth the surface of the compound with the trowel to feather it into the surrounding concrete, if desired. Once the patch is dry, use a concrete sealant to ensure it lasts for years to come.
Repairing a Hole
Exposed aggregate concrete is popular for driveways, patios, and other outdoor spaces that experience a constant influx of people. It’s extremely attractive with unique designs and patterns, but it’s also very hardwearing – ideal for areas that must withstand a lot of use.
However, accidents and the elements can sometimes push concrete past its limits. As a result, surface damage can occur, leaving holes in the concrete that need to be repaired.
If you have a hole in your exposed aggregate concrete slab, there are several ways to repair it. These methods range from using epoxy to replacing lost aggregate.
The first thing to do is clean the area around the crack, hole, or dent. Sweep it thoroughly with a broom to remove any dirt or loose debris. Then, mix a small amount of quick-setting cement to patch the hole. This kind of cement sets in about five minutes, making it perfect for this type of small repair.
Repairing a Large Crack
If you’ve got a large crack in your exposed aggregate concrete, it may be time to call in the pros. These professionals can use a special material to fill and seal the crack, which will help protect it against water intrusion and prevent further deterioration of the concrete.
Before you begin patching, be sure that the crack is completely dry. If it’s not, you should wait to proceed with the repair. Also, before you begin working, scrub the crack clean using a wire brush and rinse it.
To fill a narrow crack, you can use a masonry crack elastomeric filler that comes in a caulking gun-type container or a bottle with an applicator tip. Apply it over the crack and smooth it with a putty knife or trowel. For wider cracks, you can use a vinyl concrete patch that is mixed with water. Follow the directions on the product for application and curing times. Check out this interesting post!