A properly executed concrete repair can last from 20 to 30 years. The secrete to a long-lasting repair lies in how the new material is bonded to the old one. Many people think that the new patching material will stick to the old concrete like magic. However, there is a lot that goes into the bonding process.
How Concrete Cures and Dries
The concrete that makes up your sidewalk, floor, and driveway is often composed of water, gravel, sand, and Portland cement, which is the glue that holds the sand and gravel together. This is possible through a chemical reaction that takes place when water is added to the mixture. This chemical reaction is called hydration which causes the formation of tiny crystals and the transformation of the plastic mixture of concrete the resembles a thick appearance to solid rock a few hours later. The bond tends to be stronger when there are more crystals formed. Meanwhile, concrete dries when the water inside it evaporates through its surface.
How to Repair Concrete
Repairing concrete can be done in many ways including the following:
Using bonding agents – If you don’t want to use cement paint, acrylic bonding agents can be used. These chemicals are not much different than the resins used in paints. These bonding agents can be added to the patching compound or painted onto the old concrete. They work well if you follow the instructions carefully. Bonding agents are fast-curing cement repair solutions in form of epoxy repair paste. Their specially formulated non-sag properties are ideal for big overhead and vertical repairs.
Epoxy repair systems and products can provide high-impact resistance and chemical resistance, as well as deal with heavy traffic in a commercial or industrial setting. They are ideal for environments that require a floor that can deal with whatever is thrown at it as they structurally strengthen and waterproof concrete. Also, epoxy products usually offer a natural, pleasant finish look.
Using Cement Paint – Traditionally, securing a patch involves just mixing up a cement paint. This means adding water to the Portland cement until you achieve a paint consistency. Then this cement paint is brushed onto the old concrete surfaces where the new material will touch it.
Before installing the concrete patching compound, paint a thin coat of the cement paint onto the clean, solid, damp old concrete. Then, cover the paint with the patching compound right away. Keep in mind that the cement paint can dry quickly if you are working in the sun on a hot day.
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