how to repair cracks in concrete balcony

STEP 1: Choose your concrete repair product.

• STEP 1: Choose your concrete repair product. Concrete surfaces cannot be repaired with concrete. Instead, use a concrete...
• STEP 2: Prepare the cracked area for patching. First, use a small hammer and chisel in combination to knock away any...
• STEP 3: Fix the concrete crack with your selected repair product.

Full Answer

How to repair a concrete balcony?

How to Repair a Concrete Balcony. 1 Step 1. Clean your concrete balcony floor using a pressure washer fitted with a fan tip. Hold the washer 8 inches above the concrete floor and move it ... 2 Step 2. 3 Step 3. 4 Step 4. 5 Step 5. More items

How do you fix a cracked concrete floor?

Instructions 1 Widen the Crack. Widening the crack and creating a V-shape will help the patch materials stick better over the long-term. 2 Brush Out the Crack. ... 3 Clean Out the Concrete Crack. ... 4 Add Solid Crack Filler. ... 5 Add the Concrete Crack Filler. ... 6 Trowel Down the Filler. ... 7 Allow the Patch to Cure. ...

How do you fix a broken port on a concrete slab?

The ports are sealed to the concrete with epoxy paste. An epoxy adhesive is spread over and beyond the crack, leaving the port tops exposed. An epoxy or urethane bonding agent is slowly inserted into the crack, starting from the bottom port and working up to the top.

How to hide a crack in a concrete patio?

After the repair, surfacing the entire concrete patio or painting it are two options for completely hiding the crack repair. If you intend to do this, just make sure that you choose a paintable crack filler.

How do you fill a crack on a balcony?

0:132:08How To Repair Cracked Concrete Patio Slab - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe main thing that I found that helps is to really try to force the sealant down into the crack.MoreThe main thing that I found that helps is to really try to force the sealant down into the crack. And it also helps to leave a little bit of excess sealant on top of your trail.

How do you fix cracks in outdoor concrete?

3:394:53Concrete Surfaces Crack Repair - Sherwin-Williams - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStart by routing and cleaning the crack with a chaise. Saw blow out any loose particles. Then applyMoreStart by routing and cleaning the crack with a chaise. Saw blow out any loose particles. Then apply the sealant. If you're not using a self-leveling sealant.

How do you repair cracks in a concrete deck?

The best product for sealing and repairing cracks is a flexible caulk-based product like Quikrete Concrete Repair. This acrylic-based caulk is matte gray, textured to blend in with surrounding concrete. All it takes to apply this product is a caulk gun and a utility knife to cut the tip.

Can badly cracked concrete be repaired?

As long as the rest of your driveway is sound (no heaving, sinking, or crumbling), you can replace those tiny cracks with a smooth concrete surface by applying a high-quality resurfacing product, such as Quikrete's Concrete Resurfacer.

What is the best product to fill concrete cracks?

The Best Concrete Crack Filler ProductsBest Concrete Crack Filler Kit: Applied Technologies Concrete Crack Repair Kit. ... Best Liquid Cement Crack Filler: Bluestar Flexible Concrete Crack Filler. ... Best Driveway Crack Filler: DAP Ready Mixed Concrete Patch. ... Best Concrete Caulk Filler: SIKA Self-Levelling Sealant.More items...

How do you fix a large crack in a concrete patio?

0:382:01Repairing Large Cracks In Cement With Fast Setting Cement PatcherYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOn thin sections of the crack it may be necessary to turn the trowel sideways to ensure the void isMoreOn thin sections of the crack it may be necessary to turn the trowel sideways to ensure the void is filled. Using the trial continue to fill the cracks applying pressure to completely fill the void.

Can you concrete over cracked concrete?

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.

Can you pour new concrete over old cracked concrete?

Yes, you can put new concrete over old concrete providing there are no issues such as significant cracks of frost heaves with your existing concrete. A new layer of concrete should be about two inches to ensure an even, strong coverage.

Should you fix hairline cracks in concrete?

This less evasive crack repair technique breaks the rules for concrete repair. Hairline cracks are not worth the trouble fixing. You have to cut open a hairline crack if you want to actually repair it.

How much does it cost to repair concrete cracks?

According to HomeAdvisor, a professional will charge as little as $300 to fix minor concrete cracks, but most homeowners can do the job on their own with a rubber or synthetic crack filler. This costs about $0.10 to $0.15 per linear foot—but watch out if cracks are larger than 1/8 of an inch.

What is epoxy concrete repair?

Concrete repair epoxy is a method whereby epoxy is combined with cement when making repairs. The cement is then made stronger and will also be stain-proof. When adhering to instructions and following the correct process for repairs, in the end, it will save you a lot of time and money.

Can you pour new concrete over old cracked concrete?

Yes, you can put new concrete over old concrete providing there are no issues such as significant cracks of frost heaves with your existing concrete. A new layer of concrete should be about two inches to ensure an even, strong coverage.

Can you concrete over cracked concrete?

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.

Should you fix hairline cracks in concrete?

This less evasive crack repair technique breaks the rules for concrete repair. Hairline cracks are not worth the trouble fixing. You have to cut open a hairline crack if you want to actually repair it.

How to make concrete slip proof?

Run a medium-bristle broom across the surface of the wet concrete to create a slip-proof surface. Allow the concrete to cure according to the time specified on the manufacturer's directions.

How long does epoxy cure?

Inject it into each port until excess epoxy begins to drip. Cap each port with a plastic plug. Allow the filler to cure for five days.

Is concrete good for balconies?

Strength, durability and longevity make concrete a common choice for balconies. Over time, however, wear and tear, lack of maintenance, improper installation or exposure to the elements leave the balcony walls or floor appearing rough, cracked or bumpy. Cracks in the concrete not only mar its appearance, but also serve as a structural hazard ...

What is the best material to fill cracks in concrete?

Options include epoxy compounds, latex patching material, and mortar mixes. This last option works best to fill large cracks (or chipped edges), while the other products are suitable for cracks in concrete that are ⅛-inch wide or narrower.

How long does it take for a concrete patch to cure?

Finally, smooth the patch so that it’s level with the surrounding concrete. Let it cure for about two hours, then cover the area with plastic sheeting to keep it moist.

How long does concrete last?

Installations of concrete can last hundreds of years, but sooner or later, most end up developing small cracks, gaps, holes, and crevices. If your concrete path, patio, or driveway has begun to show its age, make the necessary repairs sooner rather than later.

Can cracks in concrete ruin curb appeal?

They are not only a tripping hazard, but cracks in your concrete patio, driveway, or walkway can really compromise the curb appeal of your home. You've let these imperfections linger long enough. Here's how to fix them—easily! Installations of concrete can last hundreds of years, but sooner or later, most end up developing small cracks, gaps, ...

How hot should concrete be for a patio?

For most patch materials, both the air and the concrete must be between 50 F and 90 F.

What is spalling concrete?

Much like peeling paint, spalling concrete tends to introduce moisture and lead to more spalling. A concrete resurfacer that pours on and spreads out with a squeegee, trowel, or broom is the best way to repair these large, shallow areas. Consider covering your patio. Solid roofing or canopies that prevent moisture from gathering on ...

How to make a V shape with a chisel?

By keeping the chisel at a 45-degree angle, the chisel will help you form a V-shape. Tap the back of the chisel lightly with the hammer to force it about 1/4-inch into the crack. Continue to follow the crack as you tap, being careful not to chip out large sections of concrete.

How long has Lee been remodeling?

Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 12 years.

What tool do you use to press a backer rod?

If you reach sections where it is difficult to press the rod with your fingers, use a blunt tool such as a paint stirring stick, since sharper tools like screwdrivers may pierce the rod. Make sure that the backer rod is firmly in place before proceeding to the next step.

Can you repair a crack in a concrete patio?

In some cases, one side of the crack rises higher than the other side—a condition called lippage that can lead to trips and falls. When cracks get out of control, the only recourse is to demolish and rebuild your patio. Cracks in a concrete patio can be repaired quickly with simple methods and inexpensive materials.

Can elastomeric filler be used on concrete?

Such elastomeric fillers have the benefit of allowing the concrete to slightly shift over time while maintaining structural stability. While the patch will always be noticeable to some degree, you can minimize its visual impact by choosing a filler that closely matches the color of your patio.

What is the difference between a non-permeable and permeable coating on a balcony?

After the concrete repairs are made, a non-slip traffic-bearing coating system should be applied to the balcony floor and curb surfaces. A non-permeable coating system is applied to the balcony fascia surfaces, while a permeable coating is applied to the underside so the surface can breathe and allow water vapor transmission. Coating systems come in a variety of colors.

How to know if balcony is deteriorating?

first step is to hire a qualified engineer or architect to conduct a thorough survey. Working from a scaffold to fully access all the balcony areas, the engineer/architect will select an apartment line with balconies that show obvious signs of deterioration. Using a mallet to sound out the concrete, the engineer/architect will determine which areas are the most badly damaged and if the balconies are still structurally sound. Another sign to look for is ponding water, which indicates the balcony is not correctly sloped, preventing proper drainage.

How high should a balcony railing be?

New York City Building Code requires railings to be at least 42 inches above the finished surface on the balcony. If a layer of concrete has to be added to the balcony to achieve the proper slope for drainage (as described above), the new layer may reduce the height between the top of the railing and the balcony surface. The engineer/architect should account for this height difference when specifying the repair scope and railing design.

Why do you need aluminum cladding on a balcony?

Cladding is sometimes installed on new balcony curbs as an added protection, or on deteriorated concrete curbs in a misguided attempt to prevent further water infiltration. In some cases, aluminum cladding is even used to hold crumbling concrete pieces together. At best, the aluminum only temporarily blocks water.

Why do concrete floors pond?

First, water that used to enter through cracks in the concrete now stays on the surface because the cracks have been repaired and the non-permeable coating system prevents water from seeping in. Keeping water from penetrating the concrete is desirable, of course, and the point of making repairs. The second factor, however, is if the balcony is not properly pitched toward the drain (usually located near the balcony door), water pools in depressions in the balcony surface. The remedy requires the application of a new layer of tapered concrete to attain the correct slope so that water properly drains.

What happens if a building's balcony is in the condition you describe?

If most of your building's balconies are in the condition you describe, the board will probably have to bite the bullet and undertake a full-scale balcony repair program. The defects you describe are significant, especially if they are widespread.

Why do concrete cracks get worse?

Cracks allow water to penetrate the concrete, further damaging it and the underlying reinforcing steel. As the water freezes in the cold weather, the ice expands and creates more cracks, allowing more water to enter and causing more cracks and more water penetration— a cycle that grows worse with each freeze-thaw cycle.

How to fix cracks in concrete?

Concrete walls that need to be structurally sound can be repaired with a low-pressure crack injection method. The aim is to bond the concrete together again, as well as prevent water from seeping through.

How to clean a crack in a drywall wall?

Thoroughly clean out the crack and about 1 or 2 inches beyond the crack. Use either a nylon brush or metal wire brush, along with TSP cleaning solution. Rinse . Dry out the crack and the surrounding area with a heat gun.

What is the purpose of concrete repair?

Easy, inexpensive, and do-it-yourself-friendly, the main purpose of this concrete repair is to block water from seeping into the basement. It will help to prevent the edges of the crack from further chipping away, but it will not prevent the wall from cracking or splitting apart .

What is a basement wall repair?

Basement wall crack repairs fall into either of two categories: non-structural or structural repairs. Non-structural repairs, the focus of this guide, rehab the appearance of the concrete wall, prevent moisture infiltration, and slow further cracking. Structural repairs patch the wall together again so that it is as strong or even stronger than its original condition.

How long does it take to apply urethane to concrete?

Structurally bonds the concrete to like-new condition and prevents water infiltration. 1-3 hours to apply; several days working time. Not a do-it-yourself job.

What is the sealant for concrete ports?

The ports are sealed to the concrete with epoxy paste.

Why do you need to waterproof a basement?

Basement walls need to maintain their structure; otherwise, even the smallest amount of water that comes through can rot building materials, create mold and mildew, and make the space uninhabitable. Even tree and plant roots have a way of finding their way through basement wall cracks. So, before finishing your basement—or even for an uninhabited but dry basement—one component of your waterproofing plan should be to repair cracks in the concrete walls.