Tough as it is, concrete tends to develop small cracks and chips. Minor problems like this generally do not indicate any structural problems with the concrete. Nevertheless, repairs should be done as soon as possible. Once a small crack or chip appears, future wear and tear will only cause it to expand. Here's how to fill a crack up to 1/4-inch wide. For larger cracks, follow these instructions.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Here's How:
- With a wire brush, clean the crack. Sweep away any loose debris, then vacuum the crack. If grease, oil or dirt remains in or near the crack, clean it thoroughly.
- If the crack is more than 1/2-inch deep, fill it with clean sand up to the 1/2-inch depth.
- Pick up some premixed concrete crack sealant at your local home or hardware store. Shake the container, then cut the tip to match the width of the crack.
- Apply the sealant in 1/4-inch layers. Use a putty knife, if necessary, to force the sealant into the hole. Let each layer of sealant set overnight before adding another one.
- Fill the crack until it is level with the surface. Do not overfill! Allow the sealant to fully cure before walking or driving across it.
What You Need:
- Wire brush
- Vacuum cleaner or Shop-Vac
- Sand (optional)
- Concrete crack sealant
- Putty knife
