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PROJECT SHOWCASE:
PUT THE FREEZE ON CONCRETE WINTER WEATHER DAMAGE
 Winter is already upon us, and many homeowners are not prepared for the effects this change in weather will have on their homes, particularly on their concrete carports, driveways, patios, porches and walks.
Freezing rain, ice, snow and deicers, as well as freeze/thaw temperature cycles have the potential to cause costly damage to concrete surfaces if left unchecked. Not only does the saturation and freezing of concrete surfaces accelerate crack expansion and surface deterioration, but the spreading of icing salts also causes severe damage to the aesthetic and structural integrity of unprotected concrete.
Precautionary measures such as crack repair, and curing and sealing are cost-effective solutions to prevent expensive replacement projects in the future.
Dependent upon the size of a repair, the following products are formulated to remedy particular structural issues with concrete, as well as to retain the long-lasting beauty and strength of these surfaces: QUIKRETE® Concrete Crack Seal (Gray), QUIKRETE® Vinyl Concrete Patcher and QUIKRETE® Concrete & Asphalt Cleaner.
- Careful preparation of the concrete surface is essential for positive end results. Using a push broom, sweep entire area to remove all dust and debris. The surface and cracks must be clean, dry and free of grease, dust or loose concrete prior to any repairs.
- Clean the surface with the concrete and asphalt cleaner and then rinse with clean water. Do not leave any standing water on surface to be repaired.
- For minor horizontal cracks or fractures (1/8-inch to 1/2-inch in width), begin by shaking the concrete crack seal and then cutting the tip of the bottle so the opening matches the width of the crack.
- If the crack is deep, fill to within 1/4-inch of the surface with QUIKRETE® All-Purpose Sand or a backer rod.
- Squeeze the repair material into the crack in 1/4-inch layers, over-filling slightly to allow for shrinkage. Additional layers can be applied after 24 hours as needed.
- Use the vinyl concrete patcher to make thin repairs to cracked or pitted horizontal concrete areas up to one square foot in size and 1/2-inch in depth.
- Dampen the concrete surface and then apply the patching material with a trowel, taking care to force the product into the crack. Feather edge the mix out onto the surrounding concrete to create a smooth repair.
- Apply the patching material in 1/4-inch layers. If the hole is deeper than 1/4-inch, apply in stages and allow each layer to cure for several days before starting the next.
For additional project ideas, visit www.quikrete.com. |
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