Concrete slab crack repair methods: This article describes methods for repair of cracks that occur in poured concrete slabs or floors and explains the need for accurate crack cause diagnosis and impact on structure before repairs are attempted. Dec 19, 2018 Before you install any flooring material over a concrete slab, it is important to inspect the slab for defects. Dips, bulges and cracks occur frequently as concrete cures and ages. Cracks make your basement look bad and they do not help your property's resale value. Rising water can find its way through cracks. Carpenter ants, termites, and even vermin can find their way through cracks. When you patch a cracked concrete slab, your work will look like a patch.
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Tackling a cracked and uneven slab of concrete can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Repairing and leveling concrete is a pretty straightforward process and requires just a few tools. In a single day you can have a piece of concrete that looks fresh and new.
Seal the Crack
The first part of repairing the cement slab is to seal any cracks to prevent them from spreading up into the new layer of concrete that you will use to level the surface. A caulking gun loaded with either a tube of concrete repair or polyurethane sealant will do. As you pull the trigger, slowly move along the crack, forcing repair compound into the crack. Apply a second compound into the crack if needed. Allow it to dry completely, following the manufacturer’s directions, before moving on.
Clean the Slab
Before you can continue any further, make sure that the concrete slab is immaculately clean. Any dirt or residue will prevent the leveler from adhering, which will result in a cracked and uneven concrete slab in the future. Vacuum the pad using a wet/dry vacuum. Rinse it with water and mop to clean up any residue.
Apply the Primer
Concrete self-leveling requires a primer in order to fully adhere to the surface. Look for latex concrete bonding primer. Roll or paint the primer onto the concrete. Make sure that every inch, including the corners, is covered in primer. Any spots that are missed will cause the leveler to not adhere, which will result in cracking and pitting. Allow the primer to dry completely.
Prepare the Surface
Use a level to go over the slab and identify the low areas. Mark these with a pencil. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to mix the compound with water and aggregate, if needed, in a clean bucket. A power drill with a mixing hook will speed up this process. The leveler should have a soupy consistency. Once the product is mixed you will have a very limited amount of time to work, so make sure that you are prepared.
Apply the Leveler
Pour the leveler onto the area. Use a trowel to spread the leveler around the space and feather it onto the edges of the area that you are working with to create a natural transition. Keep in mind that you only have 10 minutes or so to work with the leveler, so work fast. Once you have smoothed the leveler across the space, allow it to dry. It should be set enough that you can walk on it within four hours.
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About the Author
Kristine Lofgren specializes in interior design, Web design, photography and gardening. She owns an interior design business in Salt Lake City. A graduate of Salt Lake Community College's interior design program, Lofgren is pursuing a Master of Arts in journalism from the University of Utah.
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