How to Repair a Cracked Concrete Planter

Concrete planters are very popular features in most gardens. They are preferred not only for their decorative use but for functionality as well. Even through harsh weather, these devices do not easily break or crack. If a concrete planter does break after a tumble, it is less expensive to have it repaired than to buy a new one. Here’s how it is done.

Step 1 - Empty the Concrete Planter

Remove the contents of the planter and transfer them to a temporary container. If your plant is root bound, this might take a little patience. Once removed, flush any debris that may be left inside the planter by spraying it with a solid stream of water.

Step 2 - Scrub the Crack

Use a rough brush to scrub the surface of the crack and remove any loose concrete that is trapped inside. If the concrete planter has large cracked pieces, clean them as well. Make sure to remove any loose pieces as much as possible in order to ensure that they do not get in the way during the gluing process. The best way to repair the crack is to glue it back together so make sure that the surfaces of the cracked pieces are free from loose concrete.

Step 3 - Apply Mortar

Apply mortar to act as glue and seal the crack. Make sure you apply a thick layer of mortar on the crack to put the pieces back together. Apply a sufficient amount so as to cover the crack/s completely. Use a putty knife to drive the mortar inside the cracks if a trowel is not sufficient for the purpose. Make certain that every gap in the crack is covered with mortar. Push the cracked pieces together and ensure they are placed securely back into the concrete planter form.

Step 4 - Wrap the Planter with Cloth Strips

Dampen the cloth strips before wrapping them around the concrete planter. The strips should be wrapped as tightly as possible to hold the broken pieces together. Wrap the cloth strips several times to completely cover the glued pieces. If cloth strips are not available, make use of other alternatives, such as duct tape or clamps. Allow the mortar to dry. Check the information on the mortar to find out how long it takes to dry. Usually, it will take around 24 hours.

Step 5 - Remove the Cloth Strips

Remove the cloth strips, clamps, or duct tape after the recommended time that it takes the mortar to dry. Check if the crack is sealed back together completely. If it is not, repeat the steps with another layer of mortar.

Step 6 - Apply Sealant

Apply concrete sealant on the concrete planter in order to protect it from the damaging effects of external elements.

Step 7 - Allow the Planter to Dry Completely

Do not use the concrete planter yet. It is better to let it dry for at least a week in order to ensure that the crack has completely cured.