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how do you repair a concrete basement floor

by Arvid Krajcik Published 1 year ago Updated 1 year ago
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Here’s how you can fix the crumbling concrete basement floor:

  • Step 1: Clean the Entire Area and Apply Some Bonding Agent – Ensure that you remove every bit of crumbled cement. ...
  • Step 2: Prepare and Pour a Consistently Thick and Creamy Mortar – A mason trowel and concrete mixture should be fine. ...
  • Step 3: Let the New Concrete Dry Out – You should give your new concrete about 24 hours to dry out properly. ...

Whichever type you use (they're both available at home centers), follow these steps.
  1. Step 1: Use a hammer and a cold chisel to level the bottom of the hole. ...
  2. Step 2: Brush on a concrete bonding liquid. ...
  3. Step 3: While the bonding agent is still tacky, mix the concrete. ...
  4. Step 4: Level the patch.

Full Answer

How to clean concrete floor in basement complete steps?

Instructions

  • Dust Mop or Vacuum. Dust mop or vacuum the floors regularly to remove surface grit and soil that can scratch the painted finish.
  • Mix a Cleaning Solution and Mop. After vacuuming, mix a cleaning solution of warm water and an all-purpose cleaner like Whole Foods Market 365 All Purpose Cleaner.
  • Rinse and Dry. ...

How do I stain my concrete basement floor?

  • Dampen the area with water but do not let it puddle.
  • Spray in an overlapping manner, maintaining a wet edge.
  • Allow acid stain to react with the concrete floor for at least 6-hours.
  • Clean residue and pour water on floor to approximate the final color. ...
  • Clean residue from floor with degreaser and neutralizer solution using an acid brush. ...

More items...

How do I repair crumbling concrete walls in a basement?

Tips To Stop Basement Walls From Crumbling

  • Don’t let the wall dry too fast. Spray water to keep the wall moist. ...
  • Cover the resurfaced wall with polythene. This will help to stop the wall from losing moisture.
  • Use a concrete curing agent to seal the surface. ...
  • Once the wall is resurfaced, keep it away from contacting direct sunlight and wind. ...

How do you repair a cracked basement floor?

Wider Crack Repair

  1. Clean and Remove Debris. Start by sticking a screwdriver into the crack to loosening any debris. ...
  2. Wedge Foam in Crack. Using a product called Backer Rod, we are going to wedge it down into the crack to prevent our filler from seeping down ...
  3. Fill The Crack. Next, using a concrete patch epoxy, we can now begin to fill the crack. ...

Why is my concrete floor cracking?

Can concrete be patched?

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How do you repair a crumbling concrete basement floor?

Prepare the crumbling area for a coat of new concrete. ... Create a slurry mixture by combining pure cement with water in a bucket. ... Apply a coat of the cement slurry mixture on your previously crumbled area, using a paintbrush. ... Cover the cement slurry with some of your concrete mixture.

What kind of concrete do you use to patch a basement floor?

Patching damaged floors and horizontal concrete surfaces requires a workable mix like Henry's Pre-Mixed Floor Patch. Specially designed for smoothing and leveling concrete floors, this premixed compound works in basements, commercial settings or on other damaged concrete floors both indoors and out.

How much does it cost to Recement a basement floor?

It costs between $10 and $25 per square foot to pour a concrete basement floor. That means if you have a 2,500-square-foot home, it would cost you $25,000 on the low end and $62,500 on the high end to get the job done. Of course, these prices are for an unfinished basement.

How do you repair a damaged concrete floor?

1:125:16How To Repair Concrete | Pro Tips For Repairing Concrete - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAny loose debris from the damaged area with a wire brush and broom then you can use a caulk gunMoreAny loose debris from the damaged area with a wire brush and broom then you can use a caulk gun loaded with a masonry crack filler to fill the crack.

What is the strongest concrete repair?

For a bond strength that beats any standard repair concrete, the Damtite vinyl concrete patch is the best it gets. It is a self-bonding vinyl concrete that can be used on most concrete cracks, is able to build up the corner of steps, and will bond other materials such as tile and stone.

How thick should concrete basement floor be?

3.5 inchesBasement Floor Thickness A majority of waterproofing companies do not rebuild concrete basement floors (slabs) back to the code-compliant thickness of 3.5 inches. American Dry Basement Systems has found many other installations with repoured concrete floors between 1 to 2 inches thick.

Can you replace a basement concrete floor?

Your concrete basement floors can't be ripped up and flat our replaced. In many cases, this concrete is also part of the foundation so keep that in mind when remodeling your basement. Most floors installed in a basement, whether carpet or wood, are installed on top of the concrete that was built with the home.

What is the best flooring for basements?

vinylThe best type of flooring for basements is vinyl. Vinyl flooring can come in the form of vinyl plank and vinyl tile, giving it the ability to look nearly identical to hardwood and stone products with the added benefit of being waterproof. Vinyl flooring is made of PVC making it durable and waterproof.

How much does self leveling concrete cost?

A good rule of thumb to estimate is that a self leveling concrete floor will cost around $600-850 per 100 square feet.

Is there a difference between concrete and cement?

What is the difference between cement and concrete? Although the terms cement and concrete often are used interchangeably, cement is actually an ingredient of concrete. Concrete is a mixture of aggregates and paste. The aggregates are sand and gravel or crushed stone; the paste is water and portland cement.

Can concrete be resurfaced?

Concrete resurfacing is a way to refinish old concrete to look new again. A concrete coating is applied over the existing surface, offering a variety of color, texture and pattern options. This type of decorative concrete restoration can be done on driveways, patios, pool decks and even indoor floors.

How do you resurface a concrete floor?

Concrete resurfacing can be done by grinding the existing concrete and then repainting it or applying a new layer of concrete on the old concrete. Different materials can resurface concrete, including epoxy coatings, polymer coatings, cementitious systems, and hydrogels.

Is there a difference between concrete and cement?

What is the difference between cement and concrete? Although the terms cement and concrete often are used interchangeably, cement is actually an ingredient of concrete. Concrete is a mixture of aggregates and paste. The aggregates are sand and gravel or crushed stone; the paste is water and portland cement.

What to use to fill concrete holes?

Most holes can be fixed with a quality mortar mix, although you should use one with a crushed stone aggregate to fill holes over 1 in (2.5 cm) deep. Treat holes as soon as you find them so you can prevent water and rodents from further damaging the concrete and getting into your home.

How do you fill a dirt hole in concrete?

How to Fill in a Small Area With Concrete Dig out loose sections. Compact the soil. Frame the area off. Mix your concrete. Fill the hole in. Float the concrete. Let the concrete dry.

How do you resurface a concrete floor?

Concrete resurfacing can be done by grinding the existing concrete and then repainting it or applying a new layer of concrete on the old concrete. Different materials can resurface concrete, including epoxy coatings, polymer coatings, cementitious systems, and hydrogels.

Concrete Floor Repair: Steps for Patching Concrete - This Old House

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Basement Floor Crack Repair | HGTV

Most basement floors are made of concrete and, while it's definitely a durable material, repairs will be necessary every now and then. The good news is that when planning a basement remodel, most repairs can be achieved with a few tools and materials.

How to Fix a Crumbling Cement Floor | eHow

Concrete contains cement, along with sand and water. The mixture is fairly straightforward, with the resulting product being one of the hardest construction materials known. It is has been used around the world for centuries in residential and commercial construction.

How to fix a crack in concrete?

Brush a concrete bonding agent into the crack or hole. Bonding agent is a liquid that helps concrete stick better. Dip a paintbrush into the bottle and spread an even layer into the damaged area. Cover every part of the crack or hole. Then let the bonding agent dry for 1 hour.

What to do if water comes through crack in concrete?

If you mean that there's water coming through the crack, then you may have a damaged pipe beneath the concrete. Call a contractor or plumber to inspect the damage as soon as possible.

Why won't my mortar bond?

If the mortar is too watery, it won’t bond well. Add more dry mortar to make it thicker if you have to.

How to straighten a crack in a wall?

The bonding material won’t stick as well to rounded edges. Take a chisel and hammer and tap any rounded edges to straighten them out .

How much does cement all cost?

Cement-all is the best. It does not need a bonding agent, and is especially strong. It costs about $20 USD per bag at most hardware and home improvement stores. It was designed to fix driveways and cement stairs, and is easy to work with, but the area must be clean of all soap, oil and dust, and cannot be too smooth.

How to fix a crack in a wall?

Scrub the damaged area with a wire brush and water. Dip the brush in water and scrub every part of the crack or hole. This gives the bonding material a greater surface area to adhere to. Make sure you get all the edges, sides, and the bottom of the damaged area.

How to protect yourself from concrete dust?

Put on goggles, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself. This job sends a lot of dust and concrete debris into the air. Prevent injuries by wearing goggles and a dust mask. Protect your hands with a thick pair of work gloves.

How long to wait before walking on concrete patch?

For a texture, pull a damp push broom over the concrete. Wait at least 24 hours before walking on the patch and a week before driving on it.

What to use to smooth a wood surface?

When the surface loses its wet sheen and feels firm to the touch, smooth it with a magnesium or wood trowel, which won't interfere with curing.

Can you pour concrete into a hole?

Simply pouring wet concrete into a hole in your driveway, sidewalk, or basement floor won't make for a lasting repair. You have to prep the edges correctly and use the right materials.

How to even out heaving on concrete slab?

Measure the amount of the heaving. Small differences in levels can be evened out by pouring an overlay across the existing slab. The Concrete Resurfacing Network suggests overlays of 1/16 to 3/8 inch are possible. Mix a mortar-type cement mix with mall or no aggregate and spread it across the old slab. Slabs where the heaving exceeds 3/8 inch are likely a candidate for slab removal and replacement, according to Service Magic.

Why is my floor uneven?

If the uneven floor is caused by portions of the floor sinking rather than rising, it can be jacked into place . Specialized equipment is used to pump mud under the floor to fill in areas where erosion or compaction has created voids, allowing the floor to sink.

Where are drain tiles installed?

Drain tiles are installed in a trench either just inside or outside the foundation wall. Sump pumps are placed in sump holes at a level below the concrete floor. Concrete heaves when the soil moisture below it freezes and expands.

Can you repair a heaved basement floor?

Repairing uneven or heaved concrete basement floors can be a challenge. In some cases the "repair" for the problem may be the removal of the floor and pouring a new slab. Smaller heaves can be repaired in other ways. The first step is always to determine the cause and implement a solution to the heaving problem. Advertisement.

Why is my basement floor cracking?

Most often a basement floor crack is a result of wear and tear. But if you notice a heavily cracked area or a crack that runs parallel to the foundation, then the issue may be the result of structural damage. Start by removing debris, such as loose pieces of concrete that may be wedged within the crack.

Why tile a basement?

A tile floor in a basement allows for the easy cleanup and durability that are necessities for many homeowners when finishing a basement .

How long does it take for a crack to dry before sealing?

Seal the concrete patch and allow it to dry for several days. Certain cracks may be the result of structural damage and might require the help of a professional engineer or foundation specialist.

Can you fix cracks in a basement floor?

Fixing cracks in your basement floor doesn't have to be a difficult process. Learn how to make simple repairs with this step-by-step guide. Most basement floors are made of concrete and, while it's definitely a durable material, repairs will be necessary every now and then.

Is concrete flooring good for basements?

Basements Concrete Flooring Maintenance Materials and Supplies. Most basement floors are made of concrete and, while it's definitely a durable material, repairs will be necessary every now and then. The good news is that when planning a basement remodel, most repairs can be achieved with a few tools and materials.

Do you need to repair a crack in a basement?

Even the most stable of basements will sooner than later need to be repaired, especially when it comes to basement crack repair. Here's a quick do-it-yourself guide.

Can laminate flooring be waterproofed?

In fact, most cracks only require the few simple steps shown in this do-it-yourself guide. Advancements in laminate flooring have allowed for waterproof options that are ideal for covering a basement floor. Learn more about laminate flooring in basements with this guide.

How Do You Fix Cracks in a Basement Floor and What Does it Cost?

Depending on the size of the crack, repairs could cost as little as $7-$10 for a tube of elastomeric caulk or as much as $14 to $18 per sq/ft for concrete replacement.

How long does it take for a concrete floor to crack?

Small surface cracks, aka hairline cracks, are common and nothing to worry about. They are the first to show up – often within a year of when the concrete floor was poured. As the concrete fully cures over months, minor shrinkage causes the surface to crack.

How to tell if a concrete slab has a hairline crack?

Hairline cracks are jagged, straight or a bit of a jumble. The concrete remains level – no sinking or rising of the slab in the vicinity of the cracks.

What is the term for cracks in basement floor?

Major cracks in basement floor sections should be addressed. For serious damage, the sunken section should be raised, often called slab-jacking or mudjacking. Or it should be broken up, removed and replaced.

Why does concrete crumble when poured?

This problem won’t affect the structure of the floor, but it does indicate the concrete had too much water in it when poured. Water rises in the mix and weakens the surface, so it crumbles under weight. If spalling occurs in a floor you paid to have installed, call the contractor and expect them to provide the remedy at their cost – usually a resurfacing of the floor.

Can you spall a slab?

There is no perfect fix for spalling short of tearing out the slab and starting over. Since that’s not gonna happen – and there is no need for it – you’ve got the same choices as those for dealing with minor cracks which is to say resurface your concrete or install a floor covering using, typically, a basement floating floor system.

Can basement flooring cause mold?

Cover the basement floor in flooring designed for below-grade installation. Most basement flooring is waterproof, so normal basement humidity won’t cause mold and musty smells.

Concrete Crack Repair

The technique for patching cracks will depend on the size of the crack.

Remove Paint From Concrete

Concrete is porous and absorbs paint well. Here are some recommendations for removing spilled paint.

Why is my concrete floor cracking?

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.

Can concrete be patched?

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.

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1.Videos of How Do You Repair a Concrete Basement Floor

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24 hours ago  · Step 4: Level the patch Use a straight-edged board at least a foot longer than the width of the hole. Move it back and forth in a sawing motion. When the surface loses its wet …

2.How to Repair Concrete Basement Floors

Url:https://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-repair-concrete-basement-floors

28 hours ago Here’s how you can fix the crumbling concrete basement floor: Step 1: Clean the Entire Area and Apply Some Bonding Agent – Ensure that you remove every bit of crumbled cement. You...

3.Concrete Floor Repair: Steps for Patching Concrete - This …

Url:https://www.thisoldhouse.com/flooring/21019389/concrete-floor-repair

25 hours ago Install drain tiles and/or sump pumps to reduce moisture content in the soil below the slab. Drain tiles are installed in a trench either just inside or outside the foundation wall. Sump pumps are …

4.How to Repair Heaved Basement Floors | eHow

Url:https://www.ehow.com/how_6913081_repair-heaved-basement-floors.html

25 hours ago Apply a concrete patch to the crack, making sure there are no gaps or uneven areas. Smooth the patch with a putty knife. If the crack requires a second patch, then wait for the first layer to …

5.Basement Floor Crack Repair | HGTV

Url:https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/basement-floor-crack-repair

5 hours ago  · Cover the basement floor in flooring designed for below-grade installation. Most basement flooring is waterproof , so normal basement humidity won’t cause mold and musty …

6.How to easily resurface a concrete floor | Watco - YouTube

Url:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qSloaBk8BM

4 hours ago  · For more information, see How to Break Up Concrete. Clean the area in and around the crack with a wire brush and broom. Wash the area with a stream of water. Mix vinyl …

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