How to Repair Concrete Basement Floors

Concrete basement floors see a lot of action in their lifespan. Water will undoubtedly flood the basement at some point, heat will create humidity, and very cold winters will come. All of these factors can cause concrete basement floors to become less than attractive.

If the ground shifts or the temperatures are too great, then the concrete can crack or break off. All of these issues will cause more problems to arise. The only solution is to repair the concrete. The problem with repairing concrete floors is that it is not easy and many things have to be considered. The article provides easy-to-follow steps that will aid you in the repair process by teaching you the fundamentals of concrete basement floors and how to repair them.

Preparing the Area

There is no such thing as a clean concrete break. Chunks of concrete will fill the hole, but there will also be small bits of concrete crumbling from the sides. Starting with a clean area is always the best course of action. Use a wire brush and begin brushing the sides of the crack. Do so gently to avoid damaging the concrete even more.

Use the vacuum to suck out the chunks of concrete. If there are some pieces left inside, they will not hinder the addition of more concrete. It is purely optional and depends on the size of the crack or hole, but adding sand can help as a moisture barrier. If the crack is very small, add about an inch or two of sand inside of it.

Pouring the Concrete

Concrete basement floors cannot be patched or repaired with any other material than concrete. Measure the square footage of the area to be repaired. Do so by measuring the length and width of the space and multiplying them.

Round the number up and purchase enough concrete for that size. Follow the instructions on the bag and mix it in the wheelbarrow using a rake until it is the consistency of oatmeal. Use a large plastic cup and scoop out the concrete, then pour it in the area to be repaired until it flows over the edge. Use the trowel to level and push down the concrete. Allow the concrete to dry overnight and cure for at least two days.

Finishing

Concrete basement floors need to be flat, even, and level. Whenever you patch them you'll always have small mounds of concrete. After the concrete has fully cured, sand it even. Use a power sander with high grit sandpaper and the level as a guide until you have an even surface. Vacuum the dust then paint the concrete so that it is all one color.