If your patio, walkway, or driveway starts cracking, you’ll need to act fast. If left unchecked, minor cracks will spread until you’ve got a major hassle on your hands. Thankfully, with the right concrete tools, you can repair both small and large cracks. Addressing imperfections as soon as they arise will protect the rest of the hardscaping while enhancing the property's curb appeal. Here's what you should know about repairing cracked concrete.

If the Cracks Are Narrow

Because wet concrete won’t adhere to dry concrete, you can’t repair cracks with the same mix that was used to make the slab. Instead, you’ll need a specially formulated repair mix. Some of the most popular compounds contain epoxy, latex, or mortar. For thin cracks—less than 1/8 inch wide—opt for an epoxy or latex blend. You’ll also need a hammer, chisel, wire brush, and putty knife. 

Once you’ve purchased all the essential concrete tools and materials, put on adequate protective gear—repairing concrete is a dusty job—and use the hammer and chisel to knock away any crumbling edges. Then, scrub the area with the wire brush and a little water to dislodge any loose debris. Finally, follow the instructions for making the concrete repair mix, and apply it to the crack using the putty knife. It may also be possible to apply the filler using a caulking gun. 

If the Cracks Are Wide 

Since large cracks pose a tripping hazard, you should fix them as soon as they develop. Before making the necessary repairs, though, consider why they arose in the first place. If you don’t address the underlying problem, the cracks will simply reappear. Some of the most common causes of cracked concrete include snaking tree limbs and overloaded slabs. 

The procedure for repairing wide cracks is essentially the same as the one for filling small cracks; however, you should use a mortar mix instead of an epoxy- or latex-based blend. Mortar is stronger and more durable, and wider cracks need additional reinforcing. 

When you’re ready to repair the cracks on your property, turn to Best Transit Mix for Marshalltown® concrete tools of the highest quality. A full-service concrete contractor, they carry everything from midget trowels to bull floats. Located in Soldotna, AK, this locally owned and operated company has been serving residential and commercial clients on the Kenai Peninsula since 1983. In addition to supplying concrete tools and materials for projects of every size, they offer gravel delivery and pickup. To place an order, visit their website or call (907) 262-6273.