Considerations for Homeowner Concrete Repair Pt 3
In Parts 1 & 2 we discussed some the causes and criteria for evaluating cracked PCC, now in Part 3 I will cover some of the options available for crack remediation. A word of caution to those who have not experienced the brutal stubbornness PCC removal, in certain situations, can be capable of inflicting, start in a small non-essential area and equip yourself with adequate tools for the task.
Alternative 1: Do Nothing
Always an option but you need to evaluate your situation independently.
Alternative 2: Rout & Seal PCC Cracks
This method is likely to be the most common for the average homeowner as it is relatively low cost and does not require a high degree of skill. Routing and sealing is largely intended to waterproof the crack, while providing some degree of overall aesthetic improvement. It does not join/fuse or restore any strength to the panel and does not work well with high movement/deflection cracks as the sealer typically fails. Great method for use in poorly drained areas or against building foundations where additional water would be troublesome.
Routing - Use hand router with a high quality diamond concrete or masonry bit to grind out a triangular shaped groove that follows along the crack between panels. This groove should be 1/4" to 1/2" wide and vary in depth from 3/8" to 1.0". A deeper groove will allow you to protect the sealer as it is recessed below the PCC surface, a must in areas of snow removal. Finish by thoroughly cleaning with compressed air.
Sealing - First select your sealant, silicone, asphaltic pitch, or modified grouts. In almost all cases a quality exterior rated silicone sealant is going to be your best choice, it provides flexibility, elasticity, and durability for long lasting repairs. Additionally Silicone is resistant to most commonly encountered driveway or pavement hydrocarbon solvents, gasoline/diesel/oils, whereas asphaltic sealants readily dissolve. Silicone can also be colored to match the surrounding PCC visually improving the crack repair. Typically avoid grouts in this application as they usually crack along the existing fault line. Before applying any sealant it is critical the routed crack be free of dust and dry.
Alternative 3 & 4: Full & Partial Panel Removal & Replacement
Continued in Part 4 of our series.
Alternative 1: Do Nothing
Always an option but you need to evaluate your situation independently.
Alternative 2: Rout & Seal PCC Cracks
This method is likely to be the most common for the average homeowner as it is relatively low cost and does not require a high degree of skill. Routing and sealing is largely intended to waterproof the crack, while providing some degree of overall aesthetic improvement. It does not join/fuse or restore any strength to the panel and does not work well with high movement/deflection cracks as the sealer typically fails. Great method for use in poorly drained areas or against building foundations where additional water would be troublesome.
Routing - Use hand router with a high quality diamond concrete or masonry bit to grind out a triangular shaped groove that follows along the crack between panels. This groove should be 1/4" to 1/2" wide and vary in depth from 3/8" to 1.0". A deeper groove will allow you to protect the sealer as it is recessed below the PCC surface, a must in areas of snow removal. Finish by thoroughly cleaning with compressed air.
Sealing - First select your sealant, silicone, asphaltic pitch, or modified grouts. In almost all cases a quality exterior rated silicone sealant is going to be your best choice, it provides flexibility, elasticity, and durability for long lasting repairs. Additionally Silicone is resistant to most commonly encountered driveway or pavement hydrocarbon solvents, gasoline/diesel/oils, whereas asphaltic sealants readily dissolve. Silicone can also be colored to match the surrounding PCC visually improving the crack repair. Typically avoid grouts in this application as they usually crack along the existing fault line. Before applying any sealant it is critical the routed crack be free of dust and dry.
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| Silicone Sealant |
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| Asphaltic Sealant |
Alternative 3 & 4: Full & Partial Panel Removal & Replacement
Continued in Part 4 of our series.
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