how to repair basement floor concrete

1. Brush a concrete bonding agent into the crack or hole. Bonding agent is a liquid that helps concrete stick better.
2. Mix the repair mortar in a bucket. Mortar is used to patch cracks in concrete. Look for specialized mortar designed for repairing concrete at the hardware store.
3. Scoop the mortar into the crack or hole. Use a trowel or your hands and fill the space with mortar. ...
4. Level the surface by scraping a trowel across the mortar lengthwise. Work in whichever direction the crack is longer.
5. Make the mortar flush by scraping it horizontally onto the damaged edges. ...
Scrape the surface once more with the long trowel to even it out. This final pass removes any excess mortar above the surface and smooths it out.
Cover the mortar while it dries if it's in direct sunlight. High heat causes the mortar to dry too quickly, making it weaker.
Let the mortar dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it. Mark the area off so no one steps on the mortar by accident.

How to clean concrete floor in basement complete steps?

Instructions

• Dust Mop or Vacuum. Dust mop or vacuum the floors regularly to remove surface grit and soil that can scratch the painted finish.
• Mix a Cleaning Solution and Mop. After vacuuming, mix a cleaning solution of warm water and an all-purpose cleaner like Whole Foods Market 365 All Purpose Cleaner.
• Rinse and Dry. ...

How do I stain my concrete basement floor?

• Dampen the area with water but do not let it puddle.
• Spray in an overlapping manner, maintaining a wet edge.
• Allow acid stain to react with the concrete floor for at least 6-hours.
• Clean residue and pour water on floor to approximate the final color. ...
• Clean residue from floor with degreaser and neutralizer solution using an acid brush. ...

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How do I repair crumbling concrete walls in a basement?

Tips To Stop Basement Walls From Crumbling

• Don’t let the wall dry too fast. Spray water to keep the wall moist. ...
• Cover the resurfaced wall with polythene. This will help to stop the wall from losing moisture.
• Use a concrete curing agent to seal the surface. ...
• Once the wall is resurfaced, keep it away from contacting direct sunlight and wind. ...

How do you repair a cracked basement floor?

Wider Crack Repair

1. Clean and Remove Debris. Start by sticking a screwdriver into the crack to loosening any debris. ...
2. Wedge Foam in Crack. Using a product called Backer Rod, we are going to wedge it down into the crack to prevent our filler from seeping down ...
3. Fill The Crack. Next, using a concrete patch epoxy, we can now begin to fill the crack. ...

Can you pour concrete over old concrete in a basement?

You can put new concrete over old concrete. However, unresolved issues with your old concrete, such as cracks or frost heaves, will carry over to your new concrete if not taken care of. In addition, you must pour it at least 2 inches thick.

What is the best flooring for a basement cement floor?

Epoxy floors are a great option for basements when concrete gets old. They require a stable base floor, usually made of concrete. So you can epoxy over your existing basement floor. You can paint it right on in multiple layers.

How much does it cost to Recement a basement floor?

How Much Does It Cost to Pour Concrete Basement Flooring per Square Foot? It costs between $10 and $25 per square foot to pour a concrete basement floor. That means if you have a 2,500-square-foot home, it would cost you $25,000 on the low end and $62,500 on the high end to get the job done.

How do you fix a sunken concrete basement floor?

Two options for repairing sinking concrete slabs: Install a slab pier system that connects the slab to stable soil or bedrock. Once installed, the system makes it possible to re-level settled slab sections. Raise settled concrete using PolyLevel® expanding foam.

What can you put on a cement basement floor?

7 Best Basement Flooring OptionsPaint. (Under $10/sq. ... Epoxy. ... Tile. ... Rubber tile or rubber sheets. ... Vinyl planks or tiles. ... Sheet vinyl. ... Engineered wood flooring.

Should I epoxy my basement floor?

Epoxy flooring protects your basement floor from moisture, preventing leaks or spills from seeping into the floor below and causing structural damage. Water sits on top of epoxy, making it easy to clean. Epoxy is also resistant to germs and bacteria, eliminating any mold or mildew issues for your basement floor.

How much does it cost to pour a 24x24 slab of concrete?

A typical 24x24 garage slab costs between $3,057 and $5,944 with prices ranging from $5.31 to $8.31 per square foot for a 4” reinforced slab of concrete, and $6.83 to $10.32 per square foot for a 6” slab of reinforced concrete.

How much does it cost to skim coat a concrete floor?

How Much Does It Cost To Skim Coat Concrete? Before starting your skim coating project, you need to have the money required to pay for the supplies and labor. Research shows that resurfacing about 100 square feet of concrete surface will cost you anywhere from $300 to $500.

How much does it cost to strip and seal concrete?

The average concrete resurfacing cost is $400 for 100 square feet. Most concrete overlays cost between $300 and $500 for this size, or about $3 to $5 per square foot.

How do you fix sunken concrete?

You have three options: coat the sunken section with a sand-and-cement mixture to make the surface higher, raise the sunken section using a process called mudjacking, or raise the sunken section using expanding polyurethane foam. Patching fixes the safety issue without costing much, but the patch is sure to show.

Can you jack up a concrete slab?

This process of concrete raising is also sometimes called mud jacking. They simply drill strategically placed holes into the settled slabs. Using a portable pump and flexible hoses, they fill these holes with the special mixture. Lifting a slab using this method can often be accomplished in a few hours.

Is uneven basement floor a problem?

Uneven or sloped flooring is rarely a sign that there's just a problem with the floor. It's a better indication that settling or shifting of the foundation is going on beneath the flooring. If you notice a slope developing, your first call should be to a foundation expert!

Can you put laminate flooring on basement concrete floor?

Laminate flooring can be installed over concrete, wood or carpet subfloor or other surfaces. Installation of good quality underlayment is highly recommended. Installing underlayment is easy but it has to be done precise to avoid any tears.

What is the cheapest way to finish a basement floor?

Concrete. Concrete flooring can be the least expensive choice in a basement because it's already there. You might be able to give it a good cleaning, maybe grind down some rough spots, and call it good. You can always use throw rugs or carpet tiles (see below) to add warmth and softness to specific areas.

Is cork flooring recommended for basement concrete floor?

Cork is a good choice for a basement floor for many reasons, including a relatively low cost. Additionally, cork is a renewable, naturally occurring, and easy to replenish material that is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees.

Is vinyl or laminate better for basement?

When Is Vinyl the Better Choice? Vinyl makes up in durability for what it lacks in authentic appearance. Because of its superior moisture resistance, vinyl plank flooring can be installed where laminates can't, including basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms and mudrooms.

Step 1 - Locating The Leak

Typically, a leak in your basement floor can come from a crack in the floor or the seam where your concrete floor and foundation meet. Before you c...

Step 2 - Preparing Your Surfaces

Certain types of sealers and patching compounds cannot be applied over painted surfaces. Check the product label to determine whether the basement...

Step 3 - Repairing Floor Cracks and Joints

To repair basement floor cracks that are larger than .25-inches, clean the debris and dirt from the cracks before applying the concrete patch. Remo...

Step 4 - Applying Waterproofing

After the patching compound is applied settled, add the waterproof mix. If the crack or leaking wall-floor joint is still moist, you use a water so...

Step 5 - Applying Sealant

Brush the sealant onto the wall with a stiff bristle brush that allows you to get the sealer into any cracks or pores. Spread the sealant only on t...

How to fix a crack in concrete?

Brush a concrete bonding agent into the crack or hole. Bonding agent is a liquid that helps concrete stick better. Dip a paintbrush into the bottle and spread an even layer into the damaged area. Cover every part of the crack or hole. Then let the bonding agent dry for 1 hour.

What to do if water comes through crack in concrete?

If you mean that there's water coming through the crack, then you may have a damaged pipe beneath the concrete. Call a contractor or plumber to inspect the damage as soon as possible.

Why won't my mortar bond?

If the mortar is too watery, it won’t bond well. Add more dry mortar to make it thicker if you have to.

How to straighten a crack in a wall?

The bonding material won’t stick as well to rounded edges. Take a chisel and hammer and tap any rounded edges to straighten them out .

How much does cement all cost?

Cement-all is the best. It does not need a bonding agent, and is especially strong. It costs about $20 USD per bag at most hardware and home improvement stores. It was designed to fix driveways and cement stairs, and is easy to work with, but the area must be clean of all soap, oil and dust, and cannot be too smooth.

How to fix a crack in a wall?

Scrub the damaged area with a wire brush and water. Dip the brush in water and scrub every part of the crack or hole. This gives the bonding material a greater surface area to adhere to. Make sure you get all the edges, sides, and the bottom of the damaged area.

How to protect yourself from concrete dust?

Put on goggles, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself. This job sends a lot of dust and concrete debris into the air. Prevent injuries by wearing goggles and a dust mask. Protect your hands with a thick pair of work gloves.

How long to wait before walking on concrete patch?

For a texture, pull a damp push broom over the concrete. Wait at least 24 hours before walking on the patch and a week before driving on it.

What to use to smooth a wood surface?

When the surface loses its wet sheen and feels firm to the touch, smooth it with a magnesium or wood trowel, which won't interfere with curing.

Can you pour concrete into a hole?

Simply pouring wet concrete into a hole in your driveway, sidewalk, or basement floor won't make for a lasting repair. You have to prep the edges correctly and use the right materials.

What happens if you leak a basement floor?

Whether the basement is finished or not, leaks in the floor can cause serious damage that can be costly if not repaired promptly.

How to tell if a basement is unfinished?

It will be less challenging to find it if your basement is unfinished. A pool of water usually indicates the leak. Another indicator is a leaky foundation seam. If you have difficulty finding the leak, clean it up and watch the floor closely. You'll soon see the source of the water.

Where does water come from in a basement?

Typically, a leak in your basement floor comes from a crack in the floor or the seam where your concrete floor and foundation meet.

Can you use water soluble waterproofing to fix a crack?

After the patching compound is applied and settled, add the waterproof mix. If the crack or leaking wall-floor joint is still moist, use a water soluble formula. Otherwise, the waterproofing will not adhere to the edges of the crack or leaky joint. Refer to manufacturer’s instructions to determine the compound to water ratio.

How to even out heaving on concrete slab?

Measure the amount of the heaving. Small differences in levels can be evened out by pouring an overlay across the existing slab. The Concrete Resurfacing Network suggests overlays of 1/16 to 3/8 inch are possible. Mix a mortar-type cement mix with mall or no aggregate and spread it across the old slab. Slabs where the heaving exceeds 3/8 inch are likely a candidate for slab removal and replacement, according to Service Magic.

Why is my floor uneven?

If the uneven floor is caused by portions of the floor sinking rather than rising, it can be jacked into place . Specialized equipment is used to pump mud under the floor to fill in areas where erosion or compaction has created voids, allowing the floor to sink.

Where are drain tiles installed?

Drain tiles are installed in a trench either just inside or outside the foundation wall. Sump pumps are placed in sump holes at a level below the concrete floor. Concrete heaves when the soil moisture below it freezes and expands.

Can you repair a heaved basement floor?

Repairing uneven or heaved concrete basement floors can be a challenge. In some cases the "repair" for the problem may be the removal of the floor and pouring a new slab. Smaller heaves can be repaired in other ways. The first step is always to determine the cause and implement a solution to the heaving problem. Advertisement.

Why is my basement floor cracking?

Most often a basement floor crack is a result of wear and tear. But if you notice a heavily cracked area or a crack that runs parallel to the foundation, then the issue may be the result of structural damage. Start by removing debris, such as loose pieces of concrete that may be wedged within the crack.

Why tile a basement?

A tile floor in a basement allows for the easy cleanup and durability that are necessities for many homeowners when finishing a basement .

How long does it take for a crack to dry before sealing?

Seal the concrete patch and allow it to dry for several days. Certain cracks may be the result of structural damage and might require the help of a professional engineer or foundation specialist.

Can you fix cracks in a basement floor?

Fixing cracks in your basement floor doesn't have to be a difficult process. Learn how to make simple repairs with this step-by-step guide. Most basement floors are made of concrete and, while it's definitely a durable material, repairs will be necessary every now and then.

Is concrete flooring good for basements?

Basements Concrete Flooring Maintenance Materials and Supplies. Most basement floors are made of concrete and, while it's definitely a durable material, repairs will be necessary every now and then. The good news is that when planning a basement remodel, most repairs can be achieved with a few tools and materials.

Do you need to repair a crack in a basement?

Even the most stable of basements will sooner than later need to be repaired, especially when it comes to basement crack repair. Here's a quick do-it-yourself guide.

Can laminate flooring be waterproofed?

In fact, most cracks only require the few simple steps shown in this do-it-yourself guide. Advancements in laminate flooring have allowed for waterproof options that are ideal for covering a basement floor. Learn more about laminate flooring in basements with this guide.

How Do You Fix Cracks in a Basement Floor and What Does it Cost?

Depending on the size of the crack, repairs could cost as little as $7-$10 for a tube of elastomeric caulk or as much as $14 to $18 per sq/ft for concrete replacement.

How long does it take for a concrete floor to crack?

Small surface cracks, aka hairline cracks, are common and nothing to worry about. They are the first to show up – often within a year of when the concrete floor was poured. As the concrete fully cures over months, minor shrinkage causes the surface to crack.

How to tell if a concrete slab has a hairline crack?

Hairline cracks are jagged, straight or a bit of a jumble. The concrete remains level – no sinking or rising of the slab in the vicinity of the cracks.

What is the term for cracks in basement floor?

Major cracks in basement floor sections should be addressed. For serious damage, the sunken section should be raised, often called slab-jacking or mudjacking. Or it should be broken up, removed and replaced.

What is a slab jacking?

Slab-jacking – Material, often polyurethane foam, is injected through holes drilled into the slab. The material is under enough pressure to raise the concrete slab back into place.

Why does concrete crumble when poured?

This problem won’t affect the structure of the floor, but it does indicate the concrete had too much water in it when poured. Water rises in the mix and weakens the surface, so it crumbles under weight. If spalling occurs in a floor you paid to have installed, call the contractor and expect them to provide the remedy at their cost – usually a resurfacing of the floor.

Can you spall a slab?

There is no perfect fix for spalling short of tearing out the slab and starting over. Since that’s not gonna happen – and there is no need for it – you’ve got the same choices as those for dealing with minor cracks which is to say resurface your concrete or install a floor covering using, typically, a basement floating floor system.

1. Assess the damage to the concrete surface

The first step is to determine the depth of damage. If it's less than ½ inch deep, you can use a concrete parge to fill in the pitted areas of the concrete floor.

2. Clean and remove any loose material from the pitted concrete garage floor

Ensure that the area is clean and free of any debris. Use a broom or floor squeegee. This will help prevent dirt from getting into your newly poured concrete mix when it gets wet.

5. Sealing the new concrete floor

Once it's completely dried (and cured), you can seal your new concrete floor.