FAQs on How to Repair Concrete

Concrete is made from cement, gravel and water.  Concrete is a durable, long-lasting and affordable material.  Moisture and exposure to the elements are the main causes of the cracks in concrete. Repairing concrete can be done with a little effort.

Q:  Are spreading cracks repairable?

A:  Spreading cracks can be serious and a professional should be contacted.

Q:  How do I know if my concrete crack is spreading?

A:  There is a tape test that can be done to determine whether the crack is spreading.  Put a piece of tape over the crack.  If the tape tears, then the crack is spreading and professional help is needed.

Q:  What do I use to repair a hairline crack that is not spreading?

A:  The hairline crack in the concrete can be repaired with an injection of urethane or epoxy.

Q:  What is used to repair a wide crack that is not spreading?

A:  Sand and epoxy sand filler are used for wide cracks, if the crack is extremely wide, over an 1/8 of an inch, a professional should be contacted.

Q:  What is undercutting?

A:  Undercutting is making the bottom of the crack wider than the top of the crack.  The depth of the undercutting depends on the size and the depth of the crack that needs to be repaired. Undercutting of the crack will give the new patch more holding power.

Q:  What material can I used for a small crack?

A:  You can use a small ready-mix concrete patch and just add water to repair a small crack.

Q:  How long do I need to keep a concrete patch covered after I repaired a small crack?

A:  You need to keep the patched area covered completely with plastic sheeting or boards for at least five days to make sure that it cures completely.

Q:  What do I use to smooth the concrete patch?

A:  Use a wood board or a straight edge to smooth the concrete patch.