How to Fix Cracks in Concrete

Unsightly cracks in your concrete are a pain.  Plus, they can actually get worse over time as moisture builds up and penetrates the surrounding concrete making the crack bigger.  In this video from our Fix It in 15:00 series Lou has a couple of different solutions you could use.

Option 1 – Concrete Patch

• Using a chisel and hammer, you’re actually going to make the crack a bit bigger, creating a v-shaped channel (this is for better placement of the concrete patch material)
• Moisten the concrete a bit, either with a spray bottle or sponge
• In a tray, mix together your concrete patch (in this demonstration we’re using Rockite) with some water as per the manufacturer’s instructions
• Using a putty knife, apply the patch to the crack driving down into the channel as deeply as possible to help the bonding process
• As the patch sets (in about a fifteen-minute window), take a wire brush and scrape away as much excess as you can without disturbing the crack

Option 2 – Concrete Caulk

• For smaller cracks, this is a great option… pickup some concrete caulk and load it into your caulk gun
• Apply a steady bead along the crack, working as much into it as possible for proper bonding
• Tool the caulk smooth, with either a putty knife or if you’re using a latex-based product you can even use your finger
• After about twelve hours, the caulk should be dry