The key to Concrete Repair is to use quality products and follow proper application techniques. This can help to reduce long-term problems and save money over the life of the concrete.
Different types of damage require different repair methods. Surface repairs are typically used for cracks, spalling, and surface wear, and can be compared to filling or plastering. Structural repairs are needed for more serious cracks that impact the integrity of the concrete structure. This type of repair requires reinforcing the damaged area with steel bars or other materials to restore structural strength.
The first step in repairing concrete is to evaluate the cracks and the underlying cause of the damage. Cracks that indicate a design, detailing, or construction error should be repaired to ensure the load-carrying capacity and safety of the concrete structure. Cracks due to intrinsic volume changes such as drying shrinkage or thermal expansion and contraction should be evaluated to determine if the cracks are structurally significant.
Cost-Effective Strategies for Repairing Concrete Damage
Depending on the type of repair, the cracked area must be prepared to promote good bonding between the existing concrete and the new material. It is necessary to remove any loose materials such as old grout or concrete chips from the crack. The crack must also be thoroughly cleaned using a wire brush and then cleaned again with a water hose to ensure that the new repair material will adhere properly.
Once the crack has been cleaned and dried, it is ready for the repair product to be applied. UNIQUE offers a wide variety of repair products that are designed to be compatible with concrete structures. For example, it is important that the repair material has a similar pore structure to the existing concrete and that it be able to resist chemical attack. The repair material should also be able to withstand the conditions in which the concrete is exposed such as temperature and humidity.