Handy Little Tips for Common Concrete Repairs

If you are in the process of fixing up your home and updating the interior, to make your home more beautiful on the exterior, why not try and fix up the surrounding concrete around your home as well. By taking a look around the outside of your home, you may discover that the concrete around your patio or around the front steps, or in different areas may be in the need for some repair of cracks. Use these handy little tips to get the job done.

Fixing cracks

If you have a problem with hairline cracks in your concrete, you can easily repair them by using auto-body filler. Just dip a rubber-gloved finger into the compound and then press it into the crack and wait for it to completely dry.

Less expensive patching

If you need to fill a bunch of large holes in your concrete, by filling them with commercial patch materiel, it can get rather expensive very quickly. To make your own patching material and help reduce cost, you will need to fill large holes to within one fourth inch of the surface with a compound made from one part portland cement, two and a half parts sand, and enough water to make a stiff paste. Next you will top off the repair with some commercial patch material.

A stronger patch

When a job calls for patching a deep hole, using latex patching material is best. You will want to construct the patch from several thin layers of the material, making sure to allow drying time in between applications. This results in a much stronger patch. When working with latex patch material, you will want to watch the edges. Look for a latex patch to begin to lighten around the edges, and then you will want to mist it with water from a plant sprayer. You will need to do this for the duration of the drying time, which is also specified on the product label.

Vertical cracks

If you have long vertical cracks in your concrete, these can be easily fixed by applying duct tape to the bottom three feet of the crack. Then insert a funnel at the top of the tape and pour in a mixture of one part portland cement and two parts masonry sand that is blended with water to a paint-like consistency. Then you will need to wait about four hours for it to dry.

Hot concrete repair tip

When fixing cracks in concrete, using the right type of tool is crucial for the best results. You will want to use a steel trowel to help create a very smooth finish on a patched surface. For help creating a rougher surface that will provide better traction where it's needed, it is best to use a wood float.

Now you know some easy and helpful tips to fix those unsightly cracks in your concrete, and the best thing about it is that you did it yourself.

Resources: 1001 Do-It-Yourself Hints & Tips