Depending on the type of damage, there are two primary types of concrete repair: partial-depth and full-depth repairs. Partial-depth repairs involve cutting around the damaged areas and replacing them with new concrete and reinforced steel. Full-depth repairs require the removal of damaged concrete and replacement of reinforced steel. Similarly, partial-depth repairs only involve cleaning and replacing the damaged concrete. Both types are effective, but the latter requires more work and expense.
In order to repair a crack or a hole in concrete, a bag-repair mix is applied to the area. There are two types of bag-repair mixes: cementitious with polymer additives. These materials have a broad range of properties and make it difficult to choose the right one. DOTs, municipalities, and contractors may use a pre-approved product. However, it is recommended to contact a professional before attempting any major structural repair.
Moist-curing is an important consideration for concrete repair. By letting new concrete dry for several hours, the bond between it and old concrete will develop slowly. The longer the moisture-curing period, the less likely the new concrete will shrink and loosen. Therefore, concrete repair methods should be evaluated relative to the desired level of durability and strength. As always, structural integrity and design must be considered, as well as the costs of their ultimate service.
During the repair process, it is important to adhere to a standard repair procedure. The NPCA Quality Control Manual recommends that all contractors use a written procedure document. It also helps ensure that best practices in concrete repair are shared and documented. The process of hiring a professional concrete contractor should also be documented. The best concrete repair materials are polymer-modified. A polymer-modified material adheres to overhead surfaces and flows into cracks quickly.
There are many types of concrete repair materials. Some of them are used on freshly cast concrete. A cementitious repair mix has been removed from the old concrete and reused for the new one. The cement mortar has high strength and is often used in large projects. It is important to note that the process is more complicated than it looks. As a result, many contractors opt for a pre-mixed patching material. It is also best to consult with an expert when choosing the type of material for the job.
A cementitious patching material is another option for concrete repair. Its consistency is typically thinner than freshly cast concrete, and a cementitious patch will not be as effective as an epoxy-based solution. The cost-effectiveness of this method lies in the fact that it is a mix of cementitious materials. This makes it ideal for repairing precast products. It is possible to use the same materials on a different project.