Main Compounds You Could Consider For Concrete Crack Repairs
Posted on: 31 May 2017
Cracks in your concrete, whether on the driveway, foundation walls and more, are bound to occur over time due to exposure to the elements. The occurrence of cracks can be further accelerated if your concrete is exposed to heavy loads that end up compromising the surface. Nonetheless, the appearance of cracks does not translate into your concrete structures becoming obsolete. There are compounds that could provide you with a quick and efficient solution to seal the cracks and even help in slowing down the formation of future cracks. So what are some of the primary compounds that you could consider for concrete crack repairs?
Polyurethane compounds
Polyurethane compounds work by reacting with the moisture that is present within the crack to create a foam. As the foam expands inside the crack, it fills up the crevice, eliminating any gaps or holes in the concrete. Additionally, you do not have to use a copious amount of polyurethane compound, as it produces a significant amount of volume once it starts to foam. Once the foam has reached its maximum size, it starts to cure. However, the polyurethane foam does not completely harden. Instead, it remains a flexible compound that readily expands and contracts in accordance with the concrete. As a result, you can be assured that the crack will not be at risk of becoming exacerbated when temperatures change erratically.
Another benefit of polyurethane compounds is that they are one of the most affordable materials that you could choose for concrete crack repairs, making them perfect for homeowners on a modest budget. Nevertheless, polyurethane compounds have one main drawback. Although the compound fills up the crack and prevents it from expanding, the compound will not restore the structural integrity of your concrete.
Epoxy compounds
Another option that you could consider for your concrete crack repairs is the use of epoxy compounds. These compounds function to weld the surface of the concrete back together, thereby making it a suitable option for restoring the structural strength of your concrete. In fact, the bond of the epoxy is much stronger than the concrete itself, so you would not have to worry about subsequent cracks occurring at the same place. Therefore, epoxy compounds are especially suitable for concrete applications that are exposed to excessive weight such as foundations. The main drawback to note about epoxy compounds is that they are an expensive option, but they make up for this by providing you with unsurpassed longevity.
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