Cracks in Polished Concrete Flooring

Impact of Cracks on Polished Concrete Flooring

When you've invested in a polished concrete floor, the last thing you want to see is a crack. It's not just about aesthetics; cracks can hint at deeper issues.

Imagine walking into a room with a beautifully reflective polished floor, and then your eye catches a crack. It immediately draws attention and can make the entire floor seem flawed. Beyond the visual aspect, cracks can be a haven for dirt and moisture. Over time, this can make cleaning more challenging, and the accumulated moisture might even lead to further damage.

But it's not just about looks. Some cracks, especially the deeper ones, can signal structural problems. If left unchecked, these can grow and compromise the floor's integrity. And let's not forget the safety aspect. Larger cracks can be tripping hazards, especially in areas with high foot traffic.

a polished concrete floor for a kitchen which has cracked
cracked concrete flooring in the home

Is Crack Repair possible in Concrete Flooring?

The good news? Yes, crack repair is possible. The approach, however, depends on the crack's size and depth.

For hairline cracks, fillers like epoxy or polyurea can be used. These not only seal the crack but also bond with the concrete, preventing the crack from expanding. For larger cracks, the process might be a bit more involved, requiring routing before filling to ensure a stable repair.

Once the cracks are repaired, the floor can be re-polished to restore its shine and smooth finish. It's essential, though, to address the root cause of the crack (like structural issues or moisture) to prevent future problems.

Common Causes of Cracks on Concrete Floors

Polished concrete flooring, while sleek and sturdy, isn't immune to cracking, and it's not always due to rough handling. Concrete is great under pressure but not so much when stretched or bent. This means cracks can show up even when you're taking good care of your floor. Here’s why:

  • Your concrete floor might crack because of the heat and cool cycles it goes through. Even indoors, things like sunlight, water or steam pipes, and your heating system can make the temperature yo-yo, which doesn't sit well with concrete.
  • If the foundation under your polished concrete floor settles or shifts, don't be surprised to see cracks. It's like when you settle into a new place; sometimes things don't fit quite right. The same goes for the soil under your foundation – if it moves, your floor might crack as it tries to adjust.
  • As concrete dries, it shrinks a bit – up to 3% or more. It’s like a cake that sinks a bit after you take it out of the oven. This happens because there's water in the concrete mix that eventually evaporates. And since most concrete is more stone and water than cement, that shrinkage can be pretty noticeable.
a long crack all the way along a polished concrete floor.

Techniques for Repairing Cracks in Polished Concrete

  • Epoxy injection
    This method is particularly suited for hairline cracks. Epoxy, a two-component resin, is injected into the crack. As it cures, it forms a strong bond with the concrete, effectively sealing the crack and preventing it from spreading. The strength of the epoxy can often exceed that of the original concrete, ensuring a long-lasting repair.
  • Stitching
    Think of this as "suturing" your concrete. Holes are drilled on both sides of the crack, and U-shaped metal staples or "stitches" are anchored across the crack's face. This physically holds the crack together, preventing it from widening or shifting. It's especially useful for larger, more unstable cracks.
  • Routing and sealing
    For this technique, the crack is enlarged along its exposed face using a tool called a router. This creates a V-shaped channel which is then filled with a flexible sealant. The sealant accommodates any movement, ensuring the crack remains sealed. It's a common method for repairing cracks on surfaces that will bear heavy loads.
  • Grouting
    This is typically used for wider, more pronounced cracks. A grout mixture, often cementitious or epoxy-based, is poured into the crack. As it sets, the grout not only fills but also binds the crack, restoring the floor's surface. It's a bit like filling a pothole on a road.
  • Overlay
    When a floor has extensive damage or multiple cracks, an overlay might be the best solution. A thin layer of concrete or a polymer-modified overlay is applied over the entire surface. It's akin to resurfacing a road. This not only hides the cracks but also provides a fresh, new surface to work on. It's crucial, however, to ensure underlying cracks are properly repaired; otherwise, they might reappear on the overlay.

Mending Pre-Polishing Cracks

Before you even think about that final polish, addressing cracks is crucial. Think of it as prepping a canvas before painting. If there's a tear or imperfection, no amount of paint will hide it.

For concrete floors, the prep work is all about mending those cracks. Start by cleaning out the crack; any dirt or debris can hinder the repair process. Once it's clean, choose the right repair technique based on the crack's size and depth. Remember, a superficial fix might look good initially, but it won't stand the test of time.

After the repair, it's essential to let the filler or sealant cure properly. Rushing the polishing process can lead to the filler dislodging or the crack reappearing. Patience is key here. Once everything's set and cured, you can proceed with polishing, confident that your floor is in the best possible shape.

Free Quote for Fixing Cracks in your Polished Concrete

Our team of experts is ready to transform your floors with precision and craftsmanship. Don't settle for ordinary when you can have exceptional. Contact us now for top-tier concrete crack repair services by emailing us at info@britishconcretepolishing.co.uk or by filling in the form below and our team will get back to you shortly.