How To Fix A Concrete Wall: 4 Steps for a Quick And Easy Repair
Old, damaged concrete walls can be a real eyesore. And if you’re not careful, they can get worse and become dangerous for workers around them. However, there are ways to fix this problem without the need for costly demolition. Here’s how to fix a broken or cracked concrete wall.
What are the signs that your wall needs to be fixed?
The most common sign that your wall needs repair is a noticeable crack in the concrete. However, it would help if you also were on the lookout for:
- Crumbling concrete
- Tilted concrete
- Concrete that is noticeably lower than the ground
All of these signs should prompt you to contact a professional and get your wall fixed.
What supplies do you need?
You should gather the following materials before starting:
- A broom
- A putty knife
- A mortar mixer
- A metal trowel
- Sandpaper
- VO-500 concrete mix
- Water
- Tape measure
- Wood or metal stakes
- A mason line
- A level
- Safety goggles
- Plastic sheeting or heavy plastic bags
- A power drill with a hammer drill bit attachment
When you’re ready to start the repair
There are a few things to keep in mind before beginning the repair process. The first is to make sure you have the appropriate tools. This includes a bucket of water, a trowel, a high-grit sanding pad, a trowel for taping, a putty knife, and a roller.
Next, you want to make sure the area where you’re fixing the wall is clear of dust and debris. This includes dirt, leaves, and other objects that could get in the way of your repair.
Lastly, you want to make sure the wall is dry before proceeding with your repair. If it’s not, wait until it is dry before beginning the process.
Once the wall is dry, you can start repairing it. The first thing you want to do is use your trowel to remove any loose or flaky pieces of concrete from the surface. Next, use your high-grit sanding pad to level out any irregularities or rough spots on the concrete’s surface.
Once that’s complete, take your trowel and apply a thin layer of mortar to the exposed wall. This will help fill in any cracks or rough spots. After applying mortar to all exposed areas, use your trowel.
The process of repairing a broken or cracked concrete wall
Step 1: Clean the surface
Start by removing any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the surface. You can do this with a broom or a garden hose.
Step 2: Apply an epoxy mortar
Mix the VO-500 concrete wall repair mix according to the package instructions. If you’re repairing a crack, apply the mortar to both sides of the crack. Smooth it out with a trowel or a wet broom.
Step 3: Apply a waterproofing sealant
Apply a waterproofing sealant to the surface to protect it from moisture. Protecting is especially important if you live in an area where it rains often.
Step 4: Apply paint or stucco
If you want your wall to look nicer, apply paint or stucco over the mortar.