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How To Fix Cracks In Concrete Patio – With DIY Expert Advice

How To Fix Cracks In Concrete Patio

Every set of specifications and architectural plans have pages on how to fix cracks in concrete patios. Cracks in the concrete patio are unappealing. They form a habitat for bacterial growths, weeds, debris, and standing water. And when they get out of control, they become a source of trip hazards and can damage the entire surface of your patio. 

The common cause of cracks in concrete patios cracks is due to increase drying. As the concrete shrinks, water evaporates. Factors like temperature and frequency of use can hasten this process. Contractors mostly result to waterproofing solutions to curb this problem. Although cracks could also be a sign that the concrete was poorly laid, working on the subgrade, modifying the concrete mix, and installing control joints are proven answers on how to fix cracks in concrete patio.

Concrete patio cracks can look like a minor problem, but if left unfixed, they can expand and reduce the value of your property. This guide will show you how to fix cracks in your concrete paving and restore your home’s curb appeal in seven simple steps. 

Crack in Concrete Patio

Concrete patios are made with concrete, a durable material that has also been used to construct driveways, walkways, and parking lots. Although concrete is long-lasting when exposed to extreme weather conditions or heavy loads, it tends to crack. Most times, these cracks can easily be fixed as a DIY project. 

The overall cost of repairing concrete patio cracks will depend on your location, you may need to check with your local building organization to get a permit before you can repair any crack on your concrete surface. 

If you are fixing your patio cracks as a DIY project, you only need to spend money on renting or buying the tools and materials you need. If you decide to call a professional, you’ll have to pay an extra cost for labor. Usually, it will cost you between $50 – $300 for materials and labor to fix concrete patio cracks. 

A worker is using his tools to rebuild a cracked section of concrete patio

Tools & Materials To Fix A Crack In Concrete Patio

If you’re wondering on how to fix cracks in concrete patio, note that many patio problems can be fixed by the average person. However, without the right tools, you can’t achieve good work or a good finish on complex problems. Fixing patio cracks requires the following tools and materials:

  • Putty knife
  • Funnel
  • Vacuum
  • Wire brush 
  • Hammer 
  • Chisel
  • Utility knife
  • Level

Materials Needed 

  • Solid crack filler
  • Polymer-based concrete crack filler 
  • Crack filler applicator
  • Backer rod 
Worker is repairing cracks in concrete patio

How To Fix Cracks In A Concrete Patio – 7 Steps to Follow

If you have noticed small cracks in your concrete patio, you don’t need to fret. These cracks can easily be repaired as a DIY project. In cases where the cracks have gone out of control and have significantly widened, you may require the help of a professional who can handle more complex damages. Here’s a step-by-step DIY guide to get started on fixing cracks in concrete patio: 

1. Clean around the crack

Clear out dirt, debris, leaves, and any other object that can obstruct your work. If you are dealing with a small crack, you don’t have to remove all the furniture from the patio. However, if the cracks are spread across your patio surfaces, you might have to do some shifting. Remember that crack fixing is dusty work, and you should be able to mask up and wear protective gear. 

2. Widen the crack

If you want your crack fillers to stick better, you must widen the crack and create more space with a hammer and a chisel. Knock away any loose or crumbling concrete from the surface of the crack. 

3. Remove processing residues of the crack

Before you start repairing the cracks, you must remove all processing residues of the cracks and scrub the surface with a wire brush. Scrubbing will help you dislodge any debris or particles surrounding the cracks. After using your wire brush to dislodge particles, use a shop vacuum to remove dust and debris from the crack. 

4. Apply the solid crack filler

You only need a solid crack filler when working with deep cracks. Ascertain the depth of the crack, and with a funnel, dispense some sand into the crack until it has leveled up. A backer rod is another option if you don’t want to use san.d as a solid crack filler. A three-quarter-inch backer rod is designed to fit perfectly into half an inch crack. Fit it in carefully, and cut off the backer rod when you get to a height that doesn’t need a solid filler. 

5. Add the concrete crack filler

Now that you’ve gotten to this step, shake the crack filler container to mix the settled part of the solution well. With your crack applicator, fill up the crack slowly. Allow the filler to settle into the crack. Do this to all parts of the crack and ensure you cover the entire surface before leveling. How to fix cracks in concrete patio doesn’t get easier than this

6. Flatten the filler

Learning how to fix cracks in concrete patio ends with flattening the filler. After applying the crack filler, you need to flatten high areas and ensure they are equally leveled and the finishing is perfect. For surfaces that appear low, you can add more patch compounds to the area before leveling. 

7. Protect the fixed patio for 24hrs

Once you are done fixing your patio cracks, you need to protect the fixed area from dirt, water, or from pets. Allow the patch material to dry for at least 24 hours before considering painting, sealing, or even stepping on it. 

The cracks have been repaired and continue to hold up over the years thanks to Paving Finder's advice

6 Extra Tips & Tricks to Maintain the Patio Final Result 

Fixing your crack is not enough maintenance to keep it in good shape. You must learn to practice other tricks and strategies to preserve the integrity of your patio surface and keep your home in good shape. Here are a few tips we recommend; 

1. Do not use anti-icing products: 

Ice melting product helps clear off snow from your concrete driveway. At the same time, deicers or ice melts are harmful and degrade your concrete patio rapidly. To preserve your patio for a prolonged time, you should allow the ice to melt naturally.

2. Install an awning: 

A patio awning will help preserve the life of your concrete by preventing the sun from hitting the surface of your concrete driveway directly. Installing an awning will help you maintain your concrete patio and create an extra living space.

3. Avoid cleaning with aggressive products: 

There are many cleaning solutions you can use on your concrete patio, but some of these products can destroy your concrete surface or weaken the entire area. This is why we recommend using a cleaning solution that is specifically formulated for concrete patios.

4. Do not place heavy materials: 

Each time a heavy weight is placed on your patio, it weakens the strength of your concrete surface. Rather use furniture that are light weighted as they add little weight to your concrete, which is insignificant.

5. Install a pergola: 

A pergola is a roof covering that provides you with a relaxing patio space. Pergola provides protection against the rays of the sun and protects your patio surface from extreme weather conditions.

6. Set up an umbrella: 

Extreme weather conditions easily weaken patio surfaces and cause a lot of damage. Installing an umbrella when it’s sunny, snowy, or when there is  heavy rainfall will help you preserve your patio area. Also, preventing moisture from gathering on your patio surface will reduce damage. 

Further Reading: How to Repair Cracks in Concrete Driveways – Best Crack Fillers 

The concrete patio hasn't repaired properly and Paving Finder has some additional advice

Is Fixing Cracks In The Concrete Patio Still Not Working?

It’s possible to fix cracks on your patio and still notice new cracks in fresh areas. Sometimes even the fixed cracks can open up and refuse to close no matter how much you try. Here are some of the reasons your crack repair process keeps failing; 

1. Old and worn-out patios:

When you have had your patio installed for the longest time, it needs to be resurfaced. Old patios don’t look appealing and have less strength. They are usually weak and prone to cracks. And even when you try to repair the cracks that have appeared, they don’t last long because the surface has lost its integrity. 

2. The crack keeps opening: 

Cracking occurs under the weight of the concrete or as a result of heavy loads. When you don’t let your patch surface cure well and dry before you use it, you might experience some challenges fixing your cracks. Each time you fix a crack, ensure you allow the area to cure before you place any heavy patio furniture or objects on the fixed area. 

3. More cracks have formed:

More cracks will tend to form if your patio surface is weak and worn out. This is a sign that you need to resurface, seal or do a thorough repair of your concrete patio surface. 

4. Call a professional to fix cracks in the concrete patio

Cracks on concrete surfaces can be repaired quickly. However, when it’s become too difficult to fix your cracks, it is a sign that something more challenging is wrong with your patio. You need to call a professional immediately to fix cracks in your concrete patio. 

Further Reading: How To Repair Cracks in Asphalt Driveway – Best Crack Fillers

Conclusion 

With the right tools and DIY guide, you can master how to fix cracks in concrete patio in no time. Fixing cracks by yourself will also save you money. However, you shouldn’t hesitate to contact a professional contractor when your patio cracks are getting out of hand.

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How To Paint Concrete Patio – Cost And Maintenance

How To Paint Concrete Patio

To get the best out of your DIY concrete patio projects, you must know how to paint the concrete patio seamlessly. A dirty and dull concrete patio can be an eyesore in your home. Painting your concrete outdoor the right way can boost its durability and revitalize your patio.

Before figuring out how to paint your concrete patio, you have to know that not all paints are suitable. But products that contain binders will allow the coating to expand and contract along with the concrete. This makes them the best choice for your DIY paint job. Paints generally don’t penetrate your concrete surface so wear and tear over a period can cause peeling particularly if you don’t prepare the surface properly. So you must start by checking for moisture and complete your painting by removing the masking tape.

Painting your concrete patio is the perfect way to preserve its integrity. But knowing how to paint your patio is the real deal. There is a lot of misinformation on painting concrete patios, but in this article, our experts explain all the myths and how you can achieve an outstanding patio layout with unique paint designs. Let’s get to it!

Can I paint a concrete patio?

Painting is a good option for adding colors to your home. You can paint almost any building made up of concrete and achieve the look you desire. With concrete patios, you can explore different colors and layouts. However, before you start painting, you must ensure that the patio surface is free of debris or any existing coating that can ruin your painting. Concrete paints come in different colors and grades. You can choose a vibrant and unique look when you are ready to turn your patio into a relaxing space.

Does Painting Outdoor Concrete Last?

Concrete is known for its toughness and durability. It is one of the most widely used paving materials for walkways, driveways, patios, and parking lots. Painting outdoor concrete has proven to add to its durability over a long time. No matter where you’ve installed your concrete, be rest assured that painting the floor or surface can help your concrete patio withstand harsh weather and wear.

There are two types of concrete paint; this includes latex-based paint and an oil-based paint. Both products have different unique features and layouts. However, latex-based concrete paints are the most used on patio floors and other building surfaces. Latex paint is more common because of its ease of use, and it also helps first-timers or DIY enthusiasts to achieve a good finish. With oil-based paint, you can achieve a shiny finish that can withstand low temperatures.

A worker is painting the concrete patio of his customer.

How to Paint Your Concrete Patio

Before you paint your concrete patio floors, you must first decide which paint and layout best suit your patio needs. In most cases, many homeowners prefer to use a color that matches the exterior of their buildings. If you decide to go for something different, you can choose a latex, oil-based, epoxy, or a garage floor coating. Once you have decided on the paint color to use, you can follow this simple guide to paint your concrete patios.

Step One

Remove any furniture on your patio surfaces. Cover furniture, plants, and landscapes that are too heavy to be moved and clear off any debris, leaves, or dirt.

Step Two

If you are painting an old concrete patio, you will need to repair cracks and fix any damages on the surface before you proceed. Fill each crack with masonry crack filler and ensure the surface is dried for the fillers to set in.

Step Three

Scrub tough stains with a brush or pressure wash your patio concrete surface to remove any stain, moss, grass, or bacterial growth. Use a mild cleaning solution and ensure all the surfaces are clean and debris-free. Then etch the patio floor. Etching is done with chemicals like muriatic acid or phosphoric acid and a stiff brush.

Step Four

After etching, rinse the surface properly and seal your concrete floor with a good sealant. Apply about two coats of concrete sealant; this will help your paint absorb better and last longer.

Concrete patio cleaning with a pressure washer before painting it.

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Step Five

You can also consider using a primer to make the painting easier and to help your concrete absorb more paint and stick better. Make sure the primer you choose is specially formulated for concrete surfaces. Apply your primer and let your primer dry before you apply your paint.

Step Six

Pour your paint into a portable tray and apply it on your patio floor. Use a paintbrush to go over surfaces a paint roller can’t reach. After applying your first layer, allow the surface to dry before you apply a second and third coat.

Step Seven

Allow the paint to dry for a day before moving your furniture back in.

The Best Products To Paint a Concrete Patio

When it comes to painting concrete patios, oil-based paints are your most reliable option. Although it is not so easy for first-timers or DIYs to navigate, oil-based paint covers concrete surfaces seamlessly. Still, if you prefer latex-based paint, ensure you purchase only the best products. Here is a list of some quality latex and oil-based paint you can use for painting concrete patios outdoors, concrete floors, and patios.

  • BERH PREMIUM. Berh premium Porch and Patio Anti-slip Floor Paint is an excellent floor paint for patios and other surfaces. It is slip-resistant, provides a great texture, and an efficient floor coverage.
Buy On Home Depot
  •  BXC-55 Concrete Sidewalk Gloss Enamel. This acrylic latex paint is best used for interior and exterior concrete floors, decks, and patios. It is easy to clean and maintain with just soap and water. It also resists cracking and fading.
Purchase It At Home Depot
Buy On Home Depot
Buy On Home Depot

How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Concrete Patio?

Many homeowners frown away from painting concrete patio floors because of the cost. However, concrete patios are very affordable when it comes to painting, sealing, and maintenance. The cost of painting a concrete patio will depend on the location, the quality, the quantity, and the size of your patio. On average, it will cost between $2 and $6 per square foot to paint concrete patio floors.

How To Clean a Painted Concrete Patio

Dirt, stains, or molds can cover your concrete patio and ruin its appearance. You will need to observe basic routine maintenance to keep the atmosphere clean and relaxing for you and your loved ones. To clean a painted patio, you will need to get cleaning solutions that are healthy for your patio floors and those that won’t cause any harm or damage to your concrete paints. An eco-friendly cleaning solution and method is the best way to clean your concrete surface. Let’s take a look at an easy step that will leave your patio spotless;

  • Remove any furniture and clear off loose dirt and debris from your patio.
  • Mix a few drops of dish soap and warm water in a bucket, pour it over your patio surface, and allow it to sit for 10 minutes.
  • Mop the patio surfaces and make sure you clean all the parts.
  • Rinse with clean water and repeat the process until you are satisfied with the result. Ensure that all tough stains are out and clean.

When you find it difficult to remove any tough stain, you can use natural cleaners to remove stains. Mix vinegar, baking soda, or bleach on the patio surface and allow it to sit for some minutes. Then mop the surface and rinse with clean water.

Simple house with stone wall and concrete floor in the outside

Related Articles:

How to paint a concrete patio – FAQs

What Happens If You Don’t Prime Concrete Before Painting?

Priming is an important step when it comes to painting concrete. This step should be done carefully to ensure a perfect finish. If you skip priming and go straight to painting, your concrete surface will still be able to breathe and leave pin holes or

cracks behind after painting. Primers help keep your concrete surface wet and allow your patios to absorb enough paint product that covers the surface seamlessly.

How Many Coats Of Paint Do I Need For A Concrete Patio?

If you want an outstanding finish, be ready to apply at least two to three coats of paint. You don’t want to ruin this process if you have come this far.Take your time and coat the surfaces excellently before using your patio. You will also need to allow the layers dry for a day before you cost more layers on top.

Should I Pressure Wash Concrete Before Painting?

It is recommended that you pressure wash your concrete before painting. This is to help you effectively remove any stain, debris, or dirt from the surface. However, when you decide to pressure wash after painting, you will have to be careful or hire a professional who can carefully do the job for you. It is important to soft-wash painted concrete when using pressure washers to avoid any damage. If you use the wrong pressure washer, you will end up peeling your paint off the concrete surface.

Conclusion

Painting a concrete patio add to your home’s curb appeal, boosts the value of your property, and makes the environment relaxing for you. To get the best out of your concrete patio, you will need to get all the painting steps right and use the best product, and you might need to hire a professional who can carry out the paint job for you.

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How To Clean Concrete Patio– Step-By-Step Guide to Preserve it

Concrete patio cleaning ideas.

Knowing how to clean a concrete patio without causing any damage to the surface is essential for you as a homeowner. The suitable cleaning method and maintenance can boost your home’s curb appeal, restore concrete surfaces and preserve your patio’s lifespan.

Concrete patios, also known as cement patios, are robust, customizable, and cheaper, making them one of the most outstanding options for landscape projects. However, with time, the porous surface of the concrete can accumulate dirt and grime and begin to discolor. Experts say concrete patios should be cleaned at least once a year to maintain their pristine condition.

In this comprehensive guide, our experts explain how to clean your concrete patio without damaging the surface and the best cleaning product to preserve your patio’s aesthetics.

How to Clean Your Concrete Patio

A power-pressure concrete washer comes in handy for cleaning concrete patios, driveways, or walkways that are dirty, stained, or have bacterial growth. For a concrete patio, you will need a pressure washer of at least 3000 PSI with a suitable nozzle type that will allow water to flow through effectively. Pressure washers are reliable and make cleaning concrete surfaces fast and enjoyable. This simple guide will help you power wash your concrete patio without damaging it.

How to pressure wash a concrete patio

Step One

Prepare to clean your concrete patio by clearing the area. Remove furniture, toys, plants, and loose debris from your patio. Take a broom and sweep the surface clean so you don’t get obstructed by obstacles when cleaning.

Further Reading: Concrete Maintenance – 11 Factors to Make Your Pavement Last

Step Two

Mix your solution into the pressure washer. Use the best solution or commercial product to help you get rid of any stain. Wear protective clothing before you mix or start cleaning.

Concrete patio cleaning with a pressure washer.

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Step Three

Select a pressure washer; pressure washers come in electric and gas-powered models. You must choose the model and pressure that best suit your concrete patio needs. When using a pressure washer, you can choose between different nozzles; this nozzle will determine the flow rate of your mixture. When you’re ready to start cleaning, connect the pressure washer to a hose. Rotate the spigot valve clockwise to allow water flow, and hold the pressure washer trigger down.

Step Four

Test the pressure washer on a small area to ensure everything is good before proceeding. If your concrete patio is flat, you can start on any part, and if it’s sloped, position yourself in the center of the top part of your patio and start power washing. Repeat soaping and washing until the area is cleaned and all stains removed.

Step Five

Rinse away the detergent into your patio drain and allow your concrete to dry before you return any of your furniture.

Further Reading: How to Clean Pavers – Tips for cleaning Patio or Driveway

Best Products to Clean a Concrete Patio

The concentrated ZEP 128 oz. Driveway, Concrete, and Masonry Cleaner offer quick and effective cleaning. It effectively cleans concrete, brick, asphalt, and quarry tile of grease, filth, and oil.

Buy On Home Depot

This is a potent, concentrated formula. ZEP 128 oz restores the concrete’s original appearance while removing dirt, stains, filth, and oil.

Buy On Home Depot

Rust-Oleum 1 gal. Concrete Etch and Cleaning is a cleaner and etch mixture that allows coatings to properly adhere to concrete surfaces by opening the pores of the concrete surface.

Buy On Home Depot

This cleaner utilizes microbes for effective results. When the microorganisms are finished, the stain evaporates, leaving your concrete with a fresh and rejuvenated look.

Buy On Home Depot

This concrete cleaner’s potent bleach-based composition kills mold and mildew while cleaning and brightening the driveway outside your house.

Buy On Home Depot

How to Clean a Concrete Patio Without a Pressure Washer

In the absence of a pressure washer, there are many ways you can effectively clean your concrete patio. Surface degradation and damage to the mortar are some effects that might result after pressure washing your driveway. Below are a few steps you can employ to clean a concrete driveway without pressure washing it.

Remove Debris

Most times, the cleaning solution our patios need is to clear and get rid of loose debris and dirt. This can be done by hand picking or sweeping the surface. Sweeping off the dirt and grime from your concrete patio will reduce build-up.

Clean with Commercial Cleaning Products

Commercial cleaning solutions come in different forms. Some are mild, harsh, or even harmful to patio surfaces, and you can use commercial cleaning products to wash out any stain after clearing the surface. When cleaning with commercial products, you will need some essential items to make the work easier. Vinegar, baking soda, bleach, or muriatic acids are mild commercial cleaning solutions you can employ when cleaning.

To create a cleaning solution with baking soda, dilute a half cup of baking soda with one gallon of water or one part with one vinegar to make a cleaning solution with water.  When there is a deep stain on your concrete patio, you can pour the cleaning solution into that area and wait for it to absorb for some minutes.

Further Reading: How to Remove Oil Stains from an Asphalt Driveway

 

Woman cleans concrete patio with a brush.

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Scrub with Sponge or Brush

Pour your cleaning solution over your concrete patio and let it settle for ten minutes. Scrub hard into the concrete and brush off every stain from your patio. If the stain does not go off after using the vinegar solution, you can pour baking soda directly on it and allow it to sit in for not more than ten minutes, then scrub again.

Rinse

The last stage is important; always rinse off every cleaning solution from your concrete patio. After rinsing, allow your patio to dry before you return your furniture.

How to Clean Dog Urine From Concrete Patio

Dog urine can stain your patio and leave behind an ugly stench. And sometimes, it never goes away no matter how hard you scrub with vinegar or bleach. When dog urine seeps into the concrete, getting rid of the smell can take a long time. Once you have noticed dog urine on your patio or perceive the smell, you should immediately clean it off. To get rid of dog urine, you must first:

  • Clear the area and remove any dirt or debris from the patio surface.
  • Use a garden hose to wash urine away from your patio surface. Make sure to keep pets away from the area when working.
  • Apply an odor eliminator to clear urine odor from the environment.
  • Apply a commercial cleaning product on the spot and allow it to sit for at least ten minutes before you scrub. It takes ten minutes for vinegar, baking soda, or bleach to penetrate through concrete. Apply more odor eliminators on the urine spot and scrub well.
  • Rinse your concrete patio and allow it to dry.

Cleaning your concrete patio properly after your dog urinates will remove the smell and leave the spot clean. However, if you don’t teach your pets to use the toilet or the spot you have made available for them, they will keep using your patio area. You can consider waterproofing your patio after eliminating the urine space. It is best to be on the lookout for your pet and guide them.

How to Clean a Concrete Patio Without Killing Grass

Concrete is a tough paving material and requires an effective cleaning solution to eliminate dirt and stains. Some of these cleaning solutions might be harsh on your plants and vegetation. To clean your patios without killing or destroying your grass, you must first saturate the concrete surface and your grass with water. Watering helps lower the absorption rate of the surrounding plants and vegetation. After watering, you can apply your cleaning solution and follow the concrete patio cleaning guide. Scrub your concrete patio and rinse carefully. Spray your grass with water to wash away any residual chemicals or solution on your grass.

Further Reading: Patio Drainage Options – Installation, Maintenance, and Ideas

A clean and glossy stamped concrete patio

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How to Clean a Stamped Concrete Patio

Stamped concrete comes in different designs, colors, and textures. Cleaning stamped concrete is different from cleaning an ordinary concrete patio.

  • Start by removing dust or lose debris from the area with a broom.
  • Use a wet mop to clean the surface of your stamped patio. Rinse the mob regularly to ensure you are doing a clean job.
  • For stained areas, use a mild cleaning solution. Laundry detergent, dish soap, and commercial cleaning solutions will help clean off stains or solutions explicitly formulated for cleaning concrete.
  • Rinse and make sure you remove

Further Reading: How to Clean a Brick Patio

How to Clean Black Mold Off Concrete Patio

A patio overrun with black mold or other bacterial growth can be frustrating. If your patio is covered by shade or in a damped location, you will have to deal with cleaning mold off your concrete patio all the time. To reduce the effort and time it takes to clear off bacterial growth, scrub the mold with bleach. Bleach will disinfect the affected area and kill all bacteria. Another alternative is to use a pressure washer. Pressure washing your concrete patio with mold and mildew house and siding detergent will leave it spotless. With a powerful tip and turbo nozzle, hold the pressure washer inches away from the concrete and pressure wash the entire area. The mold will break up and wash out.

Conclusion

Before cleaning your concrete patio, you will need a few things. Rubber gloves, bucket, garden hose, push brush, and chlorine bleach. Ensure you have all your essential items and are well-dressed for the job. We recommend sealing the entire area to protect your patio from stains.

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