Can You Patch Up Concrete?

Concrete is all around our homes, so when it gets damaged and cracked, you’ll naturally wonder if you can patch up concrete or if you’ll have to have it replaced. You’ll be pleased to learn that you can indeed patch up concrete in order to stave off replacement and keep it from developing further, more extensive issues down the line. Here’s what you need to know about causes of damage to concrete, repairing vs replacing concrete, and how to patch up concrete. 

Common Causes Of Damage To Concrete

Nothing lasts forever, and durable as concrete is, it’s no different in this regard. Concrete can necessitate repairs or replacement from mere wear and tear or from being damaged. Some common causes of concrete damage are as follows:

• Since most of the concrete in our homes is exposed to the elements, it’s no surprise that weather damage is a common cause of concrete deterioration and cracking. Temperature changes can cause concrete to expand and contract, which can lead to gaps. 

• If concrete is exposed to running water frequently, the water can erode it, causing cracks to spread throughout it that start out tiny and grow over time.

• If your concrete has to withstand a lot of impact, such as in your garage with your cars, all that weight can make it crack, too.

• Additionally, if ground settles around where your concrete has been set, then it can shift and make parts of the concrete sink and separate from the rest of it. 

Repairing Vs Replacing Concrete

Concrete replacement is a large project which is why people ask if you can patch up concrete instead of getting into an extensive process of having it completely redone. Luckily, you can indeed patch up concrete. Repairing concrete is not only more manageable a job, but can also prevent you from having to replace your concrete. 

It’s always good to fix problems before they get the chance to turn into significant issues, both for your convenience and your bank account. This is why there are kits to make it so you can patch up concrete in need of repair.

Repairing your concrete has many benefits, such as:

• Making it safer and eliminating tripping hazards through ensuring you patch up concrete
• Maintaining the curb appeal of your home
• Saving you money in the long run

How To Choose The Best Concrete Patch

You can’t patch up concrete with concrete. You’ll need a special concrete repair mix, such as one of the ones we offer here at Stone Edge Surfaces. In some cases, you may need one of our experts to come out and repair your concrete for you, depending on the type of and extent of the damage it has sustained. In others, you’ll be able to do it yourself, such as if there are cracks. Before you can do any concrete repair, you’ll want to select the best mix to patch up concrete around your home.

There are a few things that factor into the best concrete patch for you. You’ll want to consider:

• The Type: what the patch is made of. Some are more flexible than others, others are more water resistant. Our experts will help you determine the best type for you.
• The Mixing Method: whether they have been premixed or are dry.
• The Suitability/Durability: Some patches work better for smaller cracks while others work better for wider ones.
• How Easy And Quick They Are To Install: Some patches cure faster and are easier to apply than others.

Stone Edge Surfaces offers several different concrete patches so that you can patch up concrete in the way that is best for you and your concrete and the type of damages it has sustained. 

How To Repair Concrete

So, it’s time to patch up concrete. You have your mix, you’ve diagnosed the cause of the cracking, and you’re ready to go. You’ll want to ensure that you don’t just have your mix, but also the appropriate tools. This may be as simple as a sponge or necessitate a trowel. You’ll want to prepare the concrete by removing all the crumbling and cracked areas so that you have a smooth and solid surface to patch up concrete. 

Once you’ve cleared all the debris away, you can apply your patch according to the directions on the concrete patch you’ve decided on. We have more in depth information on what you can expect the repair process to look like on the pages of each of our different concrete repair products that we offer. 

Depending on the one you go with, it will be a little different, but in general, you’ll need the right materials, a cleared surface, and to follow the directions on the package in regards to application and cure time.

Do You Need To Patch Up Concrete?

Stone Edge Surfaces offers several different concrete repair mixes and professional concrete repair to meet whatever your needs are. Contact us today to learn more about our concrete patches and how to patch up concrete!