Driveway Replacement, Omaha, NE

Driveway Replacement, Omaha, NE | Omaha Concrete and Paving

WHAT CAN I PUT OVER CRACKED CONCRETE?

Cracks in your concrete patio, driveway, or walkway are not only a tripping hazard, but they can also detract from the curb appeal of your home. You’ve let these imperfections linger long enough. Here’s how to fix them quickly!

Concrete installations can last hundreds of years, but they eventually develop small cracks, holes, gaps, and crevices. If your concrete patio, path, or driveway is beginning to show signs of wear, make the necessary repairs as soon as possible. After all, today’s small problem will only get more extensive and more complicated (or expensive) to fix. While working with concrete requires a professional, in some cases, almost anyone can repair cracks in concrete.

This is how it’s done.

STEP 1: Select a concrete repair product.

• Concrete cannot be used to repair concrete surfaces. Instead, use a concrete repair mix widely available online at home improvement stores. Latex patching material, epoxy compounds, and mortar mixes are all options. This last option is best for filling large cracks (or chipped edges), whereas the other products are best for filling cracks in concrete 18 inches wide or narrower.

STEP 2: Clean up the cracked area before patching it.

• To begin, use a small hammer and chisel to remove any cracked, crumbling, or loose concrete—chip to about a one-inch depth below the surface plane. Then, thoroughly rinse the area, scrubbing with a wire brush to remove any loose, lingering particles. Keep in mind that this is a dirty job. To make cleanup easier, you might want to spread a tarp beneath the work area. Most importantly, make sure you’re wearing the appropriate safety equipment.

STEP 3: Repair the concrete crack with the repaired product of your choice.

• Epoxy or latex. Apply an epoxy or latex patching product to concrete cracks ⅛-inch wide or narrower and mix according to the manufacturer’s specifications. The material is applied with a mason’s trowel or a putty knife. Force it into the crack, then level it with the surrounding concrete. Different mixes cure in different ways; once again, refer to the instructions on your chosen product.

• Mortar Mix. Use a mortar mix to fill larger cracks in concrete. Making your own mix is as simple as combining one part Portland cement, three parts masonry sand, and just enough water to make a thick paste (though repair mortar mixes can also be purchased locally or, in some cases, online). Moisten (but do not drench) the affected area before applying the mortar mix with a mason’s trowel or a putty knife. As you work, take care to remove any air pockets by pressing firmly on the product. Finally, smooth the patch to make it flush with the surrounding concrete. Allow it to cure for about two hours before covering it with plastic sheeting to keep it moist. Sprinkle water under the plastic daily for a few days or until the surface hardens.

Follow these concrete crack prevention tips from Omaha Concrete and Paving to avoid future cracks! If you need a driveway replacement, give us a call, and we would be happy to come to take a look at your project! Contact us today if you need a driveway replacement, Omaha, NE.