Repairing Cracks in Concrete Floors

So, what kinds of repairs are you looking at?

• settling


• cracked or broken edges


• flaking


• stains

Settling is a common complaint in older homes where the concrete is original and has been subject to the settling of the surrounding soil. This is trickier to correct than with other concrete problems due the fact it's not an inherent flaw in the concrete and because it may require structural work. You may want to look into options that consider shifting the property to properly support the concrete. However, in most cases, this kind of repair isn't feasible for a homeowner.

Cracked or broken edges on a concrete floor can be fixed on a small scale. Larger cracks will need either the entire floor removed and re-poured, or having a cap -- or over lay -- poured. And while it may sound as if there's a big difference between these approaches, they are fairly simple and can be completed by a homeowner in many cases.

Repairing a concrete floor usually just takes a little concrete, though caulk may do the trick, and some patience to redo the damaged area. Repairing concrete cracks in concrete floor is absolutely necessary when you are planning on putting another flooring option over the top. This will keep moisture from making the cracks bigger and damaging the foundation with changes in temperature and season.

Repairing a cracked concrete floor needs to begin with a dry surface. You may wish to run a dehumidifier or fan until the area is completely dry. If you skip this step, new cracks may form and creep right back into your "fixed" area.

When you encounter flaking in the concrete's surface, this can be a signal that the original concrete was not mixed properly. In order to correct this problem, a surface layer can be added to strengthen the top surface. However, if you realize that the substrate is also flawed, you will want to have the area re-poured and reconstructed.

Every homeowner has complained of a stained concrete garage floor and wants to fix it. Not only is it unsightly and unattractive, it can also be dangerous. Rubber- and leather-soled shoes are especially prone to slipping on thus kind of surfaces.

Repairing slick concrete floors takes a bit more finesse. If the slick floor is due to grease or other oily stains, a thorough cleansing with detergent and a pressure washer will suffice. But if you are repairing a slick surface finish, that requires an artisan or concrete professional.

Repairing concrete floors to look like new or to be made ready for a new flooring on top is important. Not only are you making an investment in your home's beauty, but also you're making an investment in the overall structure and value of your home.