How to Repair Water Damaged Concrete

Think of the number of homes that have experienced water damage to concrete surfaces as the result of flooding. Such situations can be particularly dangerous for homes that are set onto concrete foundations or those that have a basic concrete floor. The good news, however, it that concrete can be easily repaired if one knows exactly what to do.

1. Assess the damage to determine the best way to attack the concrete repair. Look for stains resulting from water standing in place or possible flood damage.

2. Measure the length, width, and depth of the concrete area that needs to be repaired. These measurements will have an impact on the repair method chosen.

3. Clean the concrete surface to be repaired. Depending upon the “type” of stain, it may be necessary to use something stronger than mere soap and water. Look for concrete cleansers that make specific claims for the type of stain to be removed. Let the concrete dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.

4. Determine what parts of the concrete need to be resurfaced because of damage. Water that has stood on concrete for a while can cause the surface to do something known in the business as “scaling.” It can also cause surface or even deep cracks as well as buckling.

5. Decide the appropriate products to be used to affect the repairs that are required. Make any purchases necessary.

6. Remove all dirt, debris, or growing material from any concrete area to be repaired. It is important that the surface be as clean as possible.

7. Resurface concrete that has only minor surface damage. This process is easy. Simply apply a thin coat of concrete over the top of the surface, carefully following the directions provided with the product.

8. Use a concrete patching material to repair small cracks and holes before they have a chance to grow in size or cause the concrete to buckle. Follow the instructions on the particular brand of patching product chosen.

9. Chisel away any old concrete that might be in the way. If the process is needed, it should be done before moving on to the next step.

10. Insert metal reinforcements if necessary. If the length, width, or depth of the area that requires repair is too large, this step will be required. Use a drill to bore the holes necessary in order to put the metal strip into place. Use the appropriate adhesive to secure the bar into place. Let that dry thoroughly before applying the concrete.

11. Apply concrete adhesive to the area around the old concrete. This will help it to stick to the new concrete as it is applied.

12. Apply or pour concrete into place. Follow the directions on the product to obtain the right consistency.

13. Place forms into place around the area, if necessary, to make certain that the concrete doesn’t move beyond the space allotted.

14. Apply a concrete sealer if desired. Be sure to follow the instructions provided on the product.