Does your patio, driveway, or other concrete surface have cracks? Should you replace it or fix it yourself? In some cases, cracks can be repaired through a simple DIY project. However, some cracks may require a professional concrete contractor, especially if you want to correct the damage. In addition, some parts of concrete may need to be replaced or removed.

Hairline cracks are common in concrete surfaces and can easily be fixed through basic repair and troubleshooting. Although patching material used in fixing these cracks will only be a short-term fix. You will need to patch these cracks then spend more money resurfacing the concrete, or you can add a decorative topping to hide the cracks beneath.

Repairing small cracks

Minor cracking can be fixed with a filler or concrete patch. However, you should first chisel out the cracks using a hammer and a cold chisel. This will enable you to create a backward-angled cut on the affected area.

After chiselling out the crack, clean loose material using a wire brush or a portable drill, then apply a thin layer of bonding adhesive to the entire area using a paintbrush. This will strengthen and protect the repair material and prevent it from popping out of the crack.

Reinforce the adhesive using a mixed vinyl compound and trowel it into the crack. Make sure to feather the repair with a trowel, so it is even with the surrounding surface.

Repairing widespread and deep cracks

If your concrete surface is cracked all the way through the slab, it must be replaced immediately. Cracks like these are commonly due to the weight of heavy equipment or large trucks that may have parked in your driveway. In addition, erosion of subgrade, improper preparation, or rainwater penetration may have caused the crack.

To repair deep cracks, you should first remove the affected concrete, especially the subgrade. Replace the subgrade with compactable material, then compact that layer thoroughly. Finally, pour back concrete to the area and even the surface with a trowel.

Repairing sunken concrete

Sunken concrete is often due to improper preparation, or loose dirt may have been used for the subgrade. When rainwater penetrates the inner core of the concrete, it will weaken the affected area, and it will be more susceptible to sinking.

The method used in repairing sunken concrete is the same as deep cracks, you need to remove the affected concrete, including the subgrade. You’ll then replace the subgrade with compactable material, then pour back the concrete.

However, we don’t recommend that you do this job yourself, especially if you don’t have any experience in repairing cracks. Instead, you must get in touch with a professional and experienced concreting company in Bendigo who can help you repair or give you some advice on what type of concrete is suitable for your repair project.