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concrete repair

Five Steps for Effective Concrete Repair

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Concrete is a durable and widely used building material known for its strength and longevity. ***

However, years later, concrete structures may develop cracks, spalling, or other forms of damage due to factors such as age, weather conditions, or poor-quality construction. Timely and effective concrete repair is needed so that structural integrity can be restored and also prolong the lifespan of the concrete. 

So, if you or a home structure repair contractor has evaluated the concrete around your home, here are five steps you should take for effective concrete repair.  

Step 1: Evaluate the Damage

Before beginning any concrete repair project, the extent and cause of the damage must be assessed. Inspect the concrete surface and identify areas with cracks, deterioration, or other signs of distress. The underlying cause of the damage, whether it’s due to structural issues, moisture infiltration, or freeze-thaw cycles, will determine the correct concrete repair method.

Step 2: Clean and Prepare the Surface

Proper surface preparation is crucial for effective concrete repair. Clean the damaged area using a wire brush, pressure washer, or other suitable methods to remove loose debris, dirt, and contaminants. For larger sections, use a hammer and chisel or a concrete grinder to create clean edges and ensure a solid bonding surface. Thoroughly dry the area before proceeding with the repair.

Step 3: Choose the Right Repair Method

Depending on the nature and severity of the concrete damage, different repair methods may be employed. Some common concrete repair techniques include:

Crack Injection: For hairline cracks or cracks that are actively leaking, crack injection is often used. Inject specialized epoxy or polyurethane materials into the cracks to seal them and restore the structural integrity.

Patching: Patching is suitable for repairing small areas of concrete damage, such as spalls or surface defects. Apply a concrete patching compound or mortar mix to fill the damaged area and create a smooth surface.

Overlay: When the damage is more extensive, an overlay may be applied. Place a new layer of concrete or a polymer-modified material over the existing surface to restore its strength and appearance.

Resurfacing: Resurfacing is typically used for large areas with widespread damage. Remove the top layer of the concrete and apply a new layer, often with improved properties such as increased durability or decorative finishes.

Step 4: Follow Proper Application Techniques

To ensure a long-lasting and effective repair, it’s important to follow the recommended application techniques for the chosen repair method. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the repair materials, including mixing ratios, curing times, and application temperatures. Compact and shape the repair material, ensuring a strong bond with the existing concrete. Use appropriate tools and techniques to achieve a smooth and uniform finish.

Step 5: Implement Preventive Measures

After completing the concrete repair, it’s essential to implement preventive measures to minimize future damage. This may include applying sealants or coatings to protect the repaired area from moisture, chemicals, or weathering. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, sealing, and addressing minor cracks or defects promptly, can help prevent further deterioration and extend the lifespan of the repaired concrete.

Effective concrete repair involves a systematic approach that includes evaluating the damage, preparing the surface, choosing the right repair method, following proper application techniques, and implementing preventive measures. By taking these steps, you can restore the structural integrity of the concrete, enhance its appearance, and prolong its service life. If you are unsure about the best approach or if the damage is extensive, it is recommended to consult with a professional home concrete repair contractor for a successful repair.

M Taylor Enterprise can inspect the concrete around your home to see if you have any home structural issues. Call our home foundation and structural repair experts in Maryland at (301) 649-3406 or matt@mtaylorenterprise.com. We will do a free consultation, make recommendations, then do any needed repairs quickly and efficiently. 

We serve Montgomery County, MD, parts of Prince George’s, MD, and Howard County, MD.

*** For more on how concrete is made, visit the Family Handyman website.

concrete repair

Driveway Maintenance: Proper Concrete Driveway Construction

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We take for granted so many things in our life: air conditioning, car engines, microwaves, laptops…chocolate.

One thing we definitely take for granted, and we see it every day, is our driveway. Yes, our driveways serve us in so many ways. We park our cars on it, our kids play on it, we wash our cars on it and the value of our homes is enhanced by it. Our driveways are an integral part of our  home.

However, before you can do all the activities you do with your driveway, it first has to be constructed. Driveway construction is a precise and specialized service done by licensed driveway pavers. 

Proper driveway construction step-by-step process is the following:

  1. Plan your driveway: Not all driveways are created the same. You have many factors to consider: how many cars will you park on it, will you be able to turn it around on the street, will it match other homes in the neighborhood, how will your neighbors be affected by it, what needs to be removed on your property so the driveway can be installed, how steep will it be so there is no erosion and it will be safe to enter and exit your vehicle on it. (You may want to get a consultation from one or several driveway construction contractors before agreeing on a final plan.)
  2. Hire a driveway contractor: Once you have planned it, hire a licensed concrete driveway contractor. You may want to get several bids and referrals before making a final decision. Also, find out how long it will take to do the project and if your neighbors will experience and inconveniences. Once you have agreed to a contractor, get it written down on a contract. Make sure you have the financing secured and arrangements made for clearing the land (if needed) so that the concrete paving contractor can begin the project on time.
  3. Get a building permit: Now that you have the bids and the project is imminent, get a building permit from your local government authorities. Utility lines, wells and runoffs have to be considered and approved before starting. Once approved, you may have to display the permit during the driveway paving.
  4. Layout begins: Now, the concrete paving contractor can begin the real work! They will layout the entire section planned for your driveway by placing wooden or steel stakes where the driveway will egress the street and at the end or closing point near the home. Builder’s line is then tied on so it’s now easier to see how the new driveway will look.
  5. Dirt, rocks and vegetation are removed: Now that the layout is clear, the contractor then removes all of the debris within the lines. Dirt, rocks, vegetation and other debris is removed clearing the way for a smoother and flatter driveway.
  6. make sure  proper finishing techniques  are used, do not add water to the  surface of the concrete ever. Do not over water the  concrete in the ready mix truck
  7. Utilities are marked: Outdoor power, gas  lines, telephone/WiFi lines and water lines may be in the layout. Miss Utility  will mark them clearly and protect them from being impacted.
  8. Metal forms are best : These are walls that  are straight and on grade so that when concrete is placed, they won’t move or expand.
  9. Grading of soil: Driveways need to  be 6 inches thick. Thus, fill material is added  as need to obtain a consistent thickness
  10. Fill material is compacted: Your concrete driveway paving contractor then uses a plate compactor, using water to mold it, to compact the base materials
  11. Reinforcing steel or polypropylene fiber added into the concrete is installed: These bars are laid before the concrete is  placed .
  12. Concrete is placed: Then your contractor, using a concrete ready mix truck, places the  plastic concrete into the layout.
  13. Slab is completed: The construction team then uses brooms or other tools to make it as flat as possible.
  14. Concrete is cured: Your contractor then applies either a curing compound or a burlap sheeting so that it drys but not too quickly. Typically it takes around seven days to dry and be ready for use.

Your new driveway is a precise operation which requires a licensed concrete paving contractor. Once you have done it, you will have a driveway you can be proud of, use often and will add to the value of your home.

M Taylor Enterprise’s experienced concrete driveway construction team will visit your home in the Silver Spring, Maryland, Montgomery County, Maryland, Prince George’s County, Maryland and parts of Howard County MD. We can give you a consultation on it. We get the job done quickly and efficiently. Call us for concrete construction and repair at (301) 649-3406 or email us at matt@mtaylorenterprise.com.
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