When your concrete is beginning to age, there are plenty of options for repair. Whether it’s an old slab, driveway, or pool deck that needs attention, repairs can often be much simpler and faster than replacement. Just as you would compare products like Moen vs Kohler Kitchen Faucets to find the best one for your kitchen.
When fixing concrete, it’s essential to use the correct repair material for your task. Ideally, its strength, adhesion, shrinkage resistance, color and aesthetic should all be compatible with the base concrete.
Quality concrete repair in Toronto is available from a variety of professional contractors and suppliers. In addition to providing quality repair materials, they also have the expertise to ensure that the repair is done safely and correctly, ensuring a long-lasting repair.
Repairing Cracks
Cracks in concrete are unsightly and can be a major issue if not addressed. Not only do they affect the aesthetic of your project, but they can corrode reinforcement steel, necessitating costly repairs and leading to durability issues as well.
Crack repairs in concrete can be accomplished using various techniques. Popular options include epoxy injection and flexible self-leveling or toolable urethane caulk.
Epoxy Injection – This technique typically involves grinding open the crack, cleaning it and applying epoxy that will bond to the concrete. This is often preferred when areas that will not experience future frost movement are present.
Polymer-modified Concrete – This type of concrete typically consists of portland cement and aggregate with various polymers added for increased strength and durability.
Patching Material – This is used to fill smaller cracks (less than 1/2 inch wide) in places like sidewalks, patios and driveways. It consists of a low viscosity repair material which must be mixed and applied using a small diameter mixing nozzle on an ergonomic dual cartridge gun.
Repairing Damaged Slabs
Though concrete is an incredibly strong material, slabs may crack or sink over time. Not only are these issues frustrating and expensive to rectify, but they may also require costly repairs.
However, taking action now to resolve the problem before it worsens can save time and money in the future. Home buyers dislike seeing cracked or sunken slabs on properties, which could reduce its value in the long run.
Particularly if you’re selling your house, if potential buyers aren’t impressed with your driveway or patio, chances are slim that you will receive as many offers.
One solution is to patch damaged areas with repair mortar or resurfacer. Mix a stiff mix, add water slowly, and trowel the concrete into each damaged spot. Flatten the top into the concrete and gently round over any edges without contact with adjacent slabs.
Repairing Damaged Driveways
Driveways made of concrete are a popular choice among homeowners and business owners. Not only do they add visual interest, but concrete driveways also protect your investment in property – increasing its resale value and increasing its overall value.
However, over time a driveway may develop cracks and other issues that need to be repaired. These could be caused by various factors such as weather changes, excessive weight of larger vehicles, ice accumulation or simply general wear-and-tear.
No matter the cause, Concrete Network suggests that any cracked or damaged areas of your driveway be fixed promptly. Repairing cracks before they reach 1/2 inch wide can prevent further issues and save you money in the long run.
If your concrete driveway requires major repair, contractors offer a range of solutions to address the issue. These include patching, resurfacing and replacing.
Repairing Damaged Pool Decks
When your pool is in need of repair, you must ensure it stays in top condition. Whether it’s just staining or more extensive concrete resurfacing work, fixing damaged pool decks is essential to maintaining the value of your home and safeguarding any investments made in them.
Cracked or broken concrete pool decks can be an eyesore and safety hazard. These uneven walking surfaces create tripping hazards when rainwater accumulates on them.
Furthermore, these issues can erode ground beneath your pool, leading to further damage and expensive repairs. To avoid such costly outcomes, it’s best to fix any cracks or sunken areas on your pool deck right away.
Crack sealers are one of the cheapest and most beneficial ways to safeguard your concrete from further cracks, while also controlling moisture – essential for keeping it healthy and strong.
For more extensive damage, specialized industrial and commercial painting services can help to restore any existing damage and protect your pool deck from future problems.
