Property owners deal with different types of damage to their buildings from time to time, and cracks in the structure are no exception. Although minor cracks aren’t a concern, they may lead to safety issues and further complications if unrepaired.
A concrete crack injection can help fix this problem. However, it isn’t the only method professionals can use to repair gaps. Read this blog as we discuss the different methods of crack repairs, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
1. Concrete Crack Injection
Our crack repair and waterproofing experts at Superior Waterproofing use polyurethane resin via pressure injection to fill in the gaps in the surfaces in your building. This method effectively fixes cracked basements, retaining walls, hairline cracks, and even soil stabilisation.
Advantages:
Because of the hydrophobic property of the resin used for the concrete crack injection, you won’t have to worry about repairing cracks in wet or damp surfaces.
The injected resin stays on the structure, creating a solid bond to the concrete.
Unlike other methods that only patch the cracks, the pressurised injection allows the resin to reach areas that may be hard to see and reach.
Disadvantages:
The cost of concrete crack injection may be higher, given that it involves using high-quality resin and sophisticated labour.
Not following the crack injection process from preparation to the actual repair may cause the bond between the concrete and resin to be weaker. That is why it is best to hire a professional to complete the repair.
2. Surface Sealing
Did you know that exposure to water can damage concrete?
When the surfaces of your building aren’t waterproof and are always exposed to water, the liquid may cause the concrete’s components to break down. It may also be a reason for mould development on the surface, which eventually shifts the concrete—creating cracks.
Surface sealing is an example of a simple crack repair method that not only fills in the gaps of the surface but also prevents water penetration. With this, we can avoid further damage. This method will only involve applying a sealant to the cracks and then leaving them to dry.
Advantages:
If the cracks’ gaps aren’t wide yet, property owners can do a DIY solution for their building’s cracks. It’s quick and easy—of course, by using suitable materials and products.
It is also easy to find a sealant colour that will match the original colour of the surface it is applied on.
Disadvantages:
It is only a band-aid or temporary solution.
Waterproofing your surfaces is the best way to prevent these from happening, even before building or tiling your basements, shower rooms, or bathrooms. It is because the sealant isn’t enough to provide long-term protection, specifically for places constantly exposed to water.
3. Concrete Patching
As the term suggests, concrete patching means patching up the concrete using a concrete mixture, cement, or mortar—depending on the issue. All one has to do is apply the material or mixture on the surface and smooth them out to match the surrounding concrete. Easy, right?
Advantages:
It follows a simple process, which costs less and only takes a few hours to finish.
You can design or alter the patching material to match the cracked concrete’s colour.
Disadvantages:
The patching material applied to the concrete may crack and not adhere well to the surface, especially when working in a damp environment. Therefore, concrete patching will only provide a temporary solution for your building issues.
If the cracks are already a threat to the structural integrity of your building, concrete patching is highly discouraged. The reason being is that the patching material may not be able to support the structure’s weight.
3. Stitching
Like mending fabric, one can apply stitching when fixing concrete cracks. This method involves creating holes on opposite sides of the gap and inserting steel reinforcement. The dust left by drilling the concrete will be removed using compressed air, and epoxy injection into the hole follows.
Aside from fixing the cracks, the steel reinforcement also helps prevent more damage from happening, as it gives the structure additional support.
Advantages:
Unlike concrete patching, this method is best for structural cracks.
Employing the services of a professional allows you to have an effective solution for structural cracks. Plus, it will also be quick, easy, and cost-effective.
Disadvantages:
While the stitching method works best for structural cracks, it is unsuitable for structures or walls with deep and/or narrow cracks.
We don’t recommend DIY projects for concrete crack repairs since it may cost you more in the long run. But if you want to try fixing cracks yourself, stitching may not be the best option. You’ll need the right equipment, technique, and knowledge to get the job done.
Exposure to various chemicals and water may cause steel corrosion, putting the sturdiness of the structure at stake.
Got Some Surface Cracks? Superior Waterproofing Has Your Backs!
Workers can apply various methods to repair concrete cracks. That is why it is best to have professionals assess the type and location of the cracks on your buildings. This way, we’ll know the best solution for your issues.
Aside from concrete crack injection in Brisbane and Gold Coast, Superior Waterproofing also offers sealing and waterproofing services that will help you ensure the integrity of your structure. Call us at +61468760750 for more information.