Not only do they look bad, but cracks also bring with them the potential for further damage. This damage can bring with it weeds and damage due to seepage. The crack in your concrete patio that you started with can potentially get wider and cause damage to your concrete patio.
When considering repairs, many homeowners wonder about the concrete patio cost in Oklahoma City and how it might impact their decision. The good news is that the vast majority of concrete patio repairs are well within your capabilities with the right approach. As custom concrete contractors, we’ve seen it all at Bill’s. We’ll take you through the concrete patio repair process.
The key to extending the life of your concrete patio is in maintaining it. Temperature changes, ground movements, and usage can all cause cracks in your concrete patio. Whether you’re interested in fixing a cracked concrete patio on your own or seeking out a professional, there are many repairs that you can perform yourself, and there are many repairs that require professional help in order to achieve a quality outcome.
Preparation: Cleaning the Crack Completely
Before ever using any type of filler material in the concrete patio repair, it is necessary to make sure that the crack in the concrete patio is clean. This is done using a wire brush or a pressure washer to remove any type of material from the crack in the concrete patio. It is absolutely necessary to make sure that the crack in the concrete patio is clean in order to achieve a quality result in the concrete patio repair.
In some cases, when the crack in the concrete patio is very narrow, we will actually make the crack in the concrete patio even wider using a chisel in order to give the filler material something to stick to. While this might sound like a somewhat unusual approach to the concrete patio repair process, it will actually give the filler material the ability to stick to the concrete patio readily.
After ensuring that the crack in the concrete patio is completely clean, we will then allow the crack in the concrete patio to dry completely. This is because if there is moisture present in the concrete, it will ruin the attempt to repair the concrete patio. If you’re trying to fix a cracked concrete patio, remember that proper cleaning and drying are essential steps. Once the crack in the concrete patio is completely clean, it is then ready to be filled.
Applying the Filler: Choosing the Right Material
Not all fillers are equal in quality. For smaller cracks, a masonry crack filler is recommended and comes in a caulking gun for easy application. When the damage is slightly larger or the crack is deeper, a concrete compound is mixed into a thick paste-like consistency. If you’re looking to fix a concrete patio, choosing the right filler and applying it correctly will make a big difference in the final result.
We take our time to fix cracks in a concrete patio by carefully filling in the crack and ensuring that the filler is well pressed into the crack to avoid the presence of bubbles. We must overfill slightly because this will allow for settlement as the compound dries.
Smoothing and Finishing: Matching the Texture
Once this is in place, a putty knife or trowel is then used to even out the compound. The texture of your patio is important in getting a professional look for your patio. If your patio has a brushed texture, then we will brush the compound with a broom or brush while still wet. For larger issues, cracked patio concrete repair may require extra care to ensure a seamless finish.
It is also important to take your time in this step because failure to do so will result in uneven patches in the compound, which will become apparent once the compound is dry.
Curing and Sealing: Protecting Your Investment
If you’re searching for the best way to repair cracked concrete, this final step is crucial for ensuring long-lasting results. This is the last step in our patio repair tutorial. As you can see, this is the part in the process where patience is indeed a virtue because most compounds take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours to cure completely.
After the compound dries completely, you can then proceed to the final step in our tutorial: sealing your patio using a water sealant.
Keep Your Patio in Top Shape
Of course, taking preventative measures is always a good thing too. However, if you notice that your patio is in bad shape due to cracks and other problems, then you might want to consider having it looked at professionally.
A well-maintained patio is not only good for the value of your home but also for your ability to enjoy the outdoors. Having trouble with a repair job that’s beyond your skill level? We’re here to help your concrete look and last its best at Bill’s Custom Concrete!