Concrete repairs are necessary to remove defects or contamination in a structure. A poorly executed repair can be disastrous; in fact, 50% of concrete repairs fail within two years. The best way to avoid a devastating outcome is to do your repairs properly. Here are a few tips to ensure the success of your concrete repairs.
First, you need to know what type of concrete repair you need. Different types of concrete need different kinds of treatments. The repair material you select must be compatible with the existing concrete. It would help if you prepared the area before applying the repair material. This way, the repair material will stick to the existing concrete and not pull out.
Another problem is when concrete becomes cracked and worn. The concrete loses its natural traction when this happens, making the surface slippery. This is dangerous for both pedestrians and vehicles.
Furthermore, standing water or snow can further worsen the problem. Also, if the concrete has holes or raised edges, it can lead to tripping and even cause damage to vehicles. Moreover, uneven surfaces are hazardous to everyone and can cause accessibility problems.
When repairing concrete, choosing a durable concrete repair material that can withstand extreme conditions is essential. Certain concrete repair materials generate heat when they cure; avoiding them is necessary if you want long-lasting repair. Additionally, thin layers of concrete can be prone to spalling and thermal stress.
Unlike other materials, the chemical components that cause substantial damage vary. They can include elements like acid or leaching salts. Exposure to these elements also increases the permeability of concrete, making the material more susceptible to abrasion. Finally, impact damage can also degrade a concrete structure rapidly. Impact damage can range from minor to major, and the after-effects can leave the remaining cement vulnerable to further injury.
Concrete restoration is an ideal choice for private or public property, where the goal is to preserve the concrete’s function and appearance. Sometimes, a timely restoration can prevent a structure from being out of commission. In the meantime, proactive repair precludes the need for an expensive replacement. If an area of concrete becomes damaged beyond repair, it can pose a severe safety risk for pedestrians and weaken a structure’s support.
Cracks and gaps can be repaired using epoxy injection. This process is minimally invasive and cost-effective. However, it does not work well for structural damages or more significant problems, and it’s not recommended for active cracks. A urethane sealant is also an option if you need a watertight seal, but it doesn’t create a structural bond.