Concrete Crack Repair: Myths Busted

by | Jan 3, 2013 | Construction & Maintenance

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Did you know that concrete usage dates back to 300 BC, when Romans used it to pave roads? There was a network of almost 5300 miles of concrete roads that led to Rome. With time and other natural factors, cracks developed, which were repaired. Along with these repairs, several myths about concrete crack repair also surfaced. Here, we discuss the common myths pertaining to repairing concrete.

Common Misconceptions around Concrete Crack Repair

Here are some myths about concrete crack repair:

*     Temporary solution: Concrete crack repair has been considered a superficial solution, which involved patching a part of concrete onto the other, such that the slab looks like before; however, it became brittle. Nine out of 10 times, the patched segment came out, making the hole bigger and harder to repair. Advanced solutions, however, have changed this scenario. With these concrete crack repair patches, product manufacturers are able to suspend concrete blocks as heavy as 500lbs from the area where the repair work is done. Hence, these solutions are not only permanent, but also able to withstand high pressure and force.

*     Lack of strength: Concrete crack repair was never preferred, as it was not considered strong. Particles in the old concrete often got loose due to the crack and were unable to bond with the newer patch of concrete. This was often called a cold bond. However, with the use of polymers and epoxy in construction materials, it is now possible to achieve a strong bond between the older and newer concrete. The products are often called concrete welds, which bind the materials together and maintain the strength of concrete at levels 2500-4000 psi.

*     Restricted application: Another misconception is about the application of products that repair cracks. They are thought to be successful only around corners and hairline cracks. They are considered inappropriate for larger cracks and corners where one slab is perpendicular to another. However, the truth is that concrete crack repair products work anywhere as long as they have concrete to bind to. Whether corners or centers, hairline cracks or repairing incisions, these solutions work just as well.

*     Require skilled hands to apply: Unlike an actual build or construction work, these solutions are pretty much do-it-yourself. Modern concrete crack repair systems do not require the services of a professional worker or drafter. They can be as simple as pouring a liquid down the crack and then wiping away the excess solution. Once it starts to dry, press it against a flat surface of a drafting tool or a wooden plank and it’s done.

Most of these myths are related to the traditional ways of crack repairing. Modern ways, however, are developed to eliminate the existing problems.

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