Johann Hunt
Concrete repairs can be a real headache, especially when products don’t meet their promises. Selecting the right solution ensures long-lasting results and prevents further damage. This article highlights five top-performing concrete repair products and five that may not meet expectations.
Avoid: Sakrete Concrete Crack Filler
Sakrete’s Concrete Crack Filler has faced criticism for its performance. The filler shrinks upon drying, leading to the reappearance of cracks. It also remains somewhat soft after curing, limiting its durability under heavy foot traffic. Keeping an eye on the repair area over time is necessary to determine if additional applications are needed.
Avoid: Henry’s FeatherFinish Patch And Skimcoat
Henry’s FeatherFinish Patch and Skimcoat is designed for smoothing and repairing surfaces, but its durability in exterior concrete repairs has been questioned. Some have noticed premature wear when exposed to the elements. While it sets in about 30 minutes, it doesn’t bond well to damp or unprimed concrete.
Avoid: Quikrete Concrete Repair Tube
While Quikrete is a reputable brand, their Concrete Repair Tube has received mixed reviews. Some have reported issues with the product’s consistency, noting that it contains large chunks of sand or rock. It also takes up to 72 hours to cure, longer than similar products.
Avoid: Damtite Concrete SuperPatch
Damtite’s Concrete SuperPatch has had some adhesion issues on certain surfaces. Some users report the patch peeling away after curing, even with proper surface preparation. The product requires thorough cleaning and priming for best results, but even then, its bond strength appears inconsistent.
Avoid: Rapid Set Cement All
Rapid Set Cement All is known for its quick setting time, which can be a double-edged sword. It sets within 15 minutes and reaches full cure in 1 hour, leaving little room for adjustments during application. Those unfamiliar with fast-curing products often struggle to work quickly enough before the mixture hardens.
Top Pick: Sikaflex Self-Leveling Sealant
When it comes to sealing horizontal concrete cracks, Sikaflex Self-Leveling Sealant stands out. Its polyurethane formula ensures flexibility and durability, allowing it to accommodate slight movements in concrete surfaces. It flows smoothly into cracks without tooling and cures within 24 hours. Proper surface cleaning and drying are necessary before application to achieve the best adhesion.
Highly Rated: Red Devil Masonry & Concrete Sealant
Red Devil’s Masonry & Concrete Sealant has gained a reputation for performing well on various surfaces. Its acrylic-based formula provides a textured finish that blends well with concrete, making repairs less noticeable. It remains flexible after curing, preventing cracks from reopening. Users report that a clean surface improves adhesion, and it takes about 48 hours to fully cure.
Best For Small Cracks: DAP Liquid Cement Crack Filler
DAP Liquid Cement Crack Filler offers a simple solution for those pesky hairline cracks. Its liquid consistency seeps into narrow spaces, effectively sealing them. It dries within 30 to 45 minutes and reaches full cure in 24 hours. Ensuring the cracks are free of dust and debris is necessary for optimal results.
Versatile Choice: Sika Ready-Mix Concrete Patch
Sika’s Ready-Mix Concrete Patch pre-mixed formula eliminates the hassle of blending, making it convenient for quick fixes. It bonds well with properly prepped surfaces, withstanding up to 3,000 psi of pressure. People have successfully used it to patch holes and spalls in concrete surfaces. Applying it in layers for deeper repairs helps ensure a strong bond.
Professional Grade: Rust-Oleum Concrete Patch & Repair
Professionals favor Rust-Oleum’s Concrete Patch & Repair for its strength and durability. The two-part epoxy formula creates a tough bond with existing concrete, supporting up to 5,000 psi of compressive strength. It has excellent results in restoring damaged surfaces, but proper surface preparation is key. It sets within 8 hours and cures fully in 24 hours.