Common Concrete Repairs Explained by a Concrete Contractor
Most concrete companies offer a concrete restoration service. However, you don’t necessarily have to be a professional to be able to repair minor concrete damage. Read on to find out how you can fix some common concrete problems yourself.
Repairing Cracks in Concrete Driveways and Sidewalks
Over time, even correctly poured concrete can crack. Such cracks can be caused by tree roots or an elevation of the ground under the slab. When moisture gets into a crack, it makes the crack larger and visible. In the winter, when water turns to ice, this is particularly severe. The ice expands, thus accelerating the cracking process. If you don’t attend to this problem, it will worsen, and ultimately lead to the crumbling and breakdown of the slab. For larger cracks, you will need the help of a professional. You can take care of the small ones, however.
To repair a small concrete crack, use one of the special products for concrete and mortar repair that are available on the market. First, you have to clean the crack and the concrete around it. Use a screwdriver or wire brush to remove dust and loose chips from the crack. After that, force all loose material out of the crack, with the help of a squirt of water, produced by your garden hose. All standing water should drain before you fill the crack. When the surface is ready, apply the product according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Restoring Worn Concrete Surfaces
Concrete is one of the most durable materials. However, vigorous use and the elements can take their toll on your concrete. Cracking and pitting are not just unsightly, they can also cause a serious breakdown of the surface. A concrete contractor can provide you with a concrete restoration service. Sometimes, however, all you have to do is resurface your concrete. You can either do that yourself or call a professional to help you.
If you choose to perform the task on your own, clean the concrete and make sure that all oil stains disappear from its surface. Then, pour a resurfacing product over the existing concrete.
If you can’t spare the time or effort to repair concrete on your own, then you have to call a professional concrete contractor that offers a concrete restoration service. In Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, and Athens, and Huntsville, AL, such a company is Franklin Concrete. Get in touch with us at (256) 348-9208.