DIY Tip: Quick Fix for Chipped or Broken Concrete
Concrete is a hard material, but it can still be chipped or get broken, particularly around the edges and we offer a quick fix to repair chipped or broken concrete.
14/08/2022
Concrete is one of the most versatile and hard-wearing materials to be used in an around the home but despite this, it can still be chipped or broken. When you have concrete steps or concrete driveway, or perhaps even concrete edging on your pavement, the last thing you need is for this to look unsightly and spoil curb appeal. We came across an easy way to fix chipped or broken concrete and you will find all the tools, supplies and materials needed for this at your local Builders store.
When working with a cement mix and wanting to make concrete shapes, say for example for steps or a driveway, you want any edges to be sharp and precise. Achieving this can be tricky if you are only working with building tools to shape the mix. An easier solution is to build a form or frame to sit where you want to place the cement mix, and this will hold the shape while it cures. You can use inexpensive chipboard or plywood to make a simple frame.
DIY TIP
If you only need to fill in minor chips in concrete items, Alcolin have an epoxy putty that is excellent for this situation. It is a 2-part epoxy putty that is kneaded together and sets extremely hard. You can shape the putty once in place by using wet fingers, but you need to do this before it sets hard.
What is the difference between cement and concrete?
Is cement concrete or is concrete cement?
This is some confusion between the terms cement and concrete and many think they are the same thing - but not quite. Cement is a component used to make concrete, but it cannot be used on its own for any structure that needs to bear weight or stress. Concrete is strong due to the fact that is consists of cement, sand and gravel, commonly known as aggregate. It is the aggregate that gives concrete is strength. The higher the ratio of aggregate in a mix - the greater the strength.
How to bond new concrete to old concrete
When you need to repair an old concrete structure, it is not just about adding cement mix to fill up a gap. You need to bond the old concrete with the new. For this you will also need to use a Bonding Adhesive that can be found at Builders and this creates a bond between the two. Follow the manufacturer's recommended guidelines for application which can be by brush, roller or spray gun onto the old concrete.
Proper preparation
Before mixing the cement, sand and stone, you need to properly clean the area where the repair is to be applied. Chip away any loose or flaking cement and brush or blow away any fine dust.
Once you know how easy it is to repair concrete in and around the home, you will be able to restore items that have become chipped or damaged and no longer add aesthetic appeal.