At UNIQUE Paving Materials, we understand and appreciate the advantages of concrete decks: they offer longevity and durability, they’re more weather resistant than wooden decks, and they’re easy to repair. But even the toughest concrete may show signs of wear and tear over time – that’s why we’re here to offer step-by-step directions for concrete deck crack repair.
Concrete Deck Crack Repair: Identifying the Problem
While the idea of repairing concrete yourself could seem a little intimidating, most concrete repairs are actually a fairly simple process that can be completed by even the greenest DIYer.
Step one of concrete deck repair is to identify what kind of concrete damage or issue you’re facing. Identifying the type of damage first will allow you to complete your repair with the best tools and materials necessary for the job. This will also allow you to perform research on the correct repair process for your damage.
There are a few types of repairs you may have to perform to restore your concrete deck to its original glory:
- Repairing cracks
- Patching holes
- Restoring broken edges
The most common type of repair, and our main focus, will be concrete crack repair.
Proper Tools and Materials for Your Concrete Deck Repair
To complete your concrete deck crack repair, you will need the following:
- Concrete patching material or crack filler
- A bristle brush
- A wire brush
- A shop vac, to prep your repair area
- A trowel
In addition, we recommend PPE such as goggles and long-sleeved garments to prevent unnecessary contact with the repair materials. Once you’ve gathered all of your tools and supplies, you’re ready to get started!
Repairing Cracks in Your Concrete Deck
Narrow crack repairs are the most common type of concrete deck repairs that we see, and the good news is that they’re also the simplest of repairs.
You’ll start the process by making sure that the concrete patch you’re working on is clear of dirt, weeds, grass, and loose debris. Cleaning the concrete can be accomplished with a wire brush, a power washer, or shop vac and the space should be dry or nearly dry when you begin the repair. While most concrete crack fillers require concrete to be completely dry before repairs commence, UNIQUE® Pourable Concrete Crack Filler can be applied to damp concrete. Just make sure there is no standing water.
As you plan to repair the cracks in your concrete deck, be sure that the temperature is expected to be at or above 50 degrees and that the weather will be dry for roughly 24 hours following the repair.
Check the soundness of the area before applying the crack filler, as you’ll want to be sure that you don’t see damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles or undermining. If this damage is present, depending on its severity it may require backfilling prior to filler application. This can be done with sand and crack filler before applying the final portion of filler needed to restore the crack to surface level.
UNIQUE Pourable Concrete Crack Filler can be applied directly from the container or with a pour pot or pump. Fill the crack with the material ¾ of the way down the length of the crack, allowing the liquid to fill the crack. After a few minutes, use a squeegee to level out the crack filler, extending it the full length of the crack, including the remaining ¼ of the crack where no filler was applied.
After you’ve completed these steps, you can allow traffic in the area after thirty minutes. Otherwise, allow 1-2 hours of curing between coats if necessary.
Maintain Your Concrete Deck Over Time
Repairing cracks in your concrete deck as they emerge will help extend the longevity of your deck. With UNIQUE Paving Materials, concrete repairs are easy to perform and will have your concrete deck reopened to traffic just thirty minutes after the repair.
If you have any questions about your concrete deck repair, or if you need on-site training, contact our team today!