Some common methods can be used to repair concrete floors and subfloors. All of these involve applying a new layer of concrete or concrete-like topping to the existing concrete slab and finishing it as desired. Only when the concrete slab has surface, or hairline, cracks or cosmetic surface flaws should it be repaired with a surface topping. Other options should be considered instead of resurfacing if the concrete floor to be repaired is heaving, has large or wide cracks, or is damaged due to freeze damage.
Concrete Maintenance and Repair System
The use of a consistent, systematic approach to concrete repair is critical as a first step in increasing the likelihood of a successful repair. The concrete maintenance and repair system is made up of seven basic components.
Steps:
- Determine the source of the damage.
- Determine the extent of the damage.
- Assess the need for repairs.
- Choose a repair method and a material.
- Make sure the existing concrete is ready to be repaired.
- Use the method of repair.
Preserve the repair correctly
Diverse methods for Repair of injured concrete floors
A few concrete floor repairs method are discussed below, which can be used depending on the concrete floor’s need.
Sealers and Coatings
As a maintenance and repair procedure, concrete sealing and coating compounds are applied to cured, dry concrete to reduce or prevent water, aggressive solutions, or gaseous media penetration. They aid in the reduction or prevention of deterioration such as rebar corrosion, freeze-thaw, carbonation, and sulphate damage. These materials are not intended for repairing severely damaged or deteriorated concrete, but they are appropriate for sealing concrete surfaces and cracks in otherwise sound concrete.
Because cracks in concrete increase the permeability of the concrete, they are widely regarded as long-term durability and maintenance issues. Moisture and other compounds can enter concrete through cracks, causing further deterioration. Cracking is a problem that affects many types of concrete structures and occurs in most geographical locations and climates.
Sealers and coatings comprises of four divisions;
- Methacrylic Sealing Compounds with a High Molecular Weight
- Epoxy Sealing Compounds with a Low Viscosity
- Concrete Coating and Coating Compounds with Silane and Siloxane
Thick Repairs
Thick repairs, in general, are those that are 3 inches thick and completely cover at least some reinforcing steel from the existing structure. If there is no steel from the existing structure, the repairs are usually at least 6 inches thick.
Thin Repairs
Thin repairs range in depth from 14 inches to 2 inches and do not cover any existing reinforcing steel. Surface grinding, Portland cement mortar, some coatings and surface sealers, dry pack mortar, packaged cementitious and vinyl flooring dubai chemical repair mortars, and polymer mortars are all examples of thin repairs (including epoxy mortars).
