Concrete floors are one of the most versatile and cost-effective flooring options available, and they require little maintenance. However, when cracks do appear, it's important to repair them quickly and correctly to prevent further damage. Fortunately, there are a variety of products available that can be used to patch a concrete floor. The most common products used for crack repairs in concrete are epoxy, polyurethane, and polyurea.
These materials are stronger than concrete and can be sanded down once they have cured. To begin the repair process, brush an adhesive concrete adhesive over the crack. This eliminates the need to roughen the surface for new concrete to adhere. Once the crack has been filled, it's important to seal the patch to make it water and stain resistant.
High-strength polyurethane is a great option for this purpose. Apply the polyurethane with a brush or roller to ensure that it penetrates into the rough area. Water-based sealants are also an option as they dry quickly and don't have an irritating smell. For high-traffic areas, apply at least three layers of sealant. For more serious repairs, two-part epoxy adhesives such as Sikadur Concrete Fix can be used.
This product can be applied to both dry and wet surfaces, but any stagnant water must be removed before application. It is designed to provide exceptional protection against mechanical abuses typically encountered in industrial environments. Structural epoxy fillers are also an option for repairing and rebuilding edges of concrete floor joints or broken slab panel corners. These products should be used in combination with sand or aggregates for best results. Armor-Hard is a two-component, 100% solid structural epoxy mortar kit designed for use in industrial concrete floors. For fast drying repairs, a ratio of excess water to concrete should be used.
To seal the floor after repair, a clearcoat sealer can be applied. This will enhance any tiles that have been installed and protect the concrete from further damage. In conclusion, there are many products available that can be used to patch a concrete floor. Epoxy, polyurethane, and polyurea are all great options for crack repairs, while two-part epoxy adhesives and structural epoxy fillers are better suited for more serious repairs. Clearcoat sealers should also be applied after repair to protect the floor from further damage.
