Repairing Broken Concrete

If you're dealing with broken concrete, you might be wondering what steps to take to repair it. Common examples of broken concrete include garage floors or damaged driveways. Concrete repair is a large undertaking that typically requires strong labor and heavy duty equipment. Damaged concrete will need to be removed from the area either through the use of a dumpster or it can be hauled out by a truck. A dumpster might be the most affordable option if you do not own a truck. Though the task may seem overwhelming, repairing broken concrete can be done successfully by using the right equipment, following instructions, and using a few tips for an easier process. 

To remove concrete driveways and flooring, a jack hammer is the best tool for breaking the concrete down into smaller sized pieces that are easier to handle. For smaller areas you can use an electric hammer. Most large and thick areas will require jack hammers or air compressor jack hammers. Jack hammers and hoses can be rented at home improvement stores. There are a few different types of hammers. Ninety pound hammers can be a little difficult to handle but are the best option. Sixty pound hammers are a little easier to handle, however they do not have the same power as the larger hammers. A larger hammer means a faster demolition. When operating a jack hammer, you should always wear protection for the eyes and ears. When beginning the process of breaking up the concrete with the jackhammer, it is best to start furthest away of the dumpster where the recyclable concrete will go, at the edge of the project. This will make it easier for running a wheelbarrow on a smooth surface in between the broken concrete and the dumpster. If only one small area of your concrete needs to be replaced, you should use a cut-off saw with a special concrete cutting blade to slice the slab neatly. You should begin by cutting out a square around the area you need to replace, penetrating all the way through the slab. When you cut through the entire slab, it will also cut through wire mesh or reinforcing bars which will make the remover process easier. 

Another tip to remember when breaking up the concrete with the jackhammer, is to double check the hose, hammer, and compressor are all connected and wired together. The wire will pass through each connection through a small hole in the metal fitting. This should be done carefully to ensure it is connected correctly. If the wires are not connected properly, the air house can open and create vibration and high pressure. The hose can also whip around violently and cause injury to you or others if it is not tethered. Additionally, damaged concrete pieces should be broken into sizes that you are able to handle easily so as not to injury your back by lifting pieces that are too heavy. Also you should not fill the wheelbarrow too full. Work gloves should be worn while handling the concrete because the edges can be extremely sharp. 

Once the damaged concrete has been removed, you will need to level the earth with the underside of the existing slab. This will ensure there won't be any settlement later on, preventing re-cracking. Drill holes into the side of the slab and add rods in each whole that have been deemed in concrete slurry. The rods will prevent the concrete from sinking below the existing concrete. Latex adhesive can be used to paint the face of the slab prior to adding new concrete. The easiest part of the project is pouring the concrete. It's a good idea to place a tarp over the fresh concrete to prevent trying too quickly. Premature drying will prevent shrinkage and help the project look seamless. For more information, vist our website at rocksolidconcrete.com. www.rocksolidconcrete.com