how to fix cracks in concrete

Concrete is very hard and durability surface, which makes it a great choice for sidewalks, patios, and driveways. But since concrete is so hard, it can develop cracks over time from expansion and contraction, settling, or excess weight.

Gloved hand holding bottle of QUIKRETE Concrete Crack Seal. — QUIKRETE Concrete Crack Seal.

The quickest and easiest way to repair a crack in concrete is by filling it with a liquid concrete crack sealant, such as QUIKRETE Concrete Crack Seal, that matches the color of your concrete.

To Repair Cracks in Concrete:

Step #1: Remove Loose Material. Use a masonry chisel, screwdriver, or putty knife to remove any loose concrete from the crack.

Using a masonry chisel to remove any loose concrete from the crack. — Using a masonry chisel to remove loose concrete from the crack.

Step #2: Clean Crack. Use a whisk broom to clean out the crack and remove any dirt or debris.

Whisk broom being used to sweep debris out of concrete crack. — Sweeping loose concrete, dirt, and debris out of crack.

Step #3: Fill Deep Cracks. If the crack is more than 1/4″ deep, use foam backer rod to fill it within 1/4″ of the surface.

Step #4: Apply Crack Sealer. Shake up the crack sealer, and fill the crack slightly overfull to allow for shrinkage.

Filling crack in concrete with crack sealant. — Filling crack with QUIKRETE Concrete Crack Seal.

Step #5: Allow Sealant to Dry. A second coat can be applied after 24 hours if needed.

Watch this video to find out more.

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Further Information

Repairing Cracks in Concrete (video)
Repairing Cracks in a Driveway (video)
Repairing and Sealing Cracks in Concrete (article)
How to Seal Expansion Joints in a Concrete Driveway (video)

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
A concrete slab's durability makes it ideal for a sidewalk, patio, or driveway; but because it's so rigid at some point cracking is inevitable. The quickest, easiest way to fill those cracks is with a pre-mixed, liquid, concrete crack sealant that matches the color of concrete.

First, remove any dirt or debris from the crack. As you pour in the liquid, it fills the void and adheres to the surrounding concrete. Slightly overfilling the crack allows for settling, and a flush finish when it dries.

This tip brought to you by QUIKRETE®, It's what America's made of.