Best Concrete Crack Filler – Complete Tutorial on Cement Crack Filler

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Concrete is seen everywhere thanks to its versatility and strength. While it offers a superior level of durability, exposed concrete can also form cracks over time. This is often a result of water damage from rain or weather conditions. If you see cracks forming in your concrete, there no need to panic! You can easily find the best concrete crack filler for an effective fix. Our guide below will take you through the various cement filler options to help you understand how to choose and use this solution. 

 

 

 

What is Cement Crack Filler?

One of the great things about working with concrete is that you can easily fix any cracks or damages that may form. Cement crack filler is exactly what the name suggests – a substance for filling in cracked, damaged, and open areas of concrete. This solution works to hold together the broken area of concrete and to prevent any further cracking or damage from forming.

Cement filler is not all the same though. You can get a concrete patching compound that is great for sealing up big cracks and gaps. A concrete caulk can be used to fill in smaller cracks that form. This can also be fixed with a liquid cement crack filler. The best concrete crack filler will differ according to the situation. How big the crack is, what the cause of the crack is, and what kind of strain the concrete is under.

Cement filler comes in various different forms. This includes compounds made using epoxy, latex, polyurethane, and mortar. You can’t actually fix concrete cracks with concrete. A special cement filler repair mix is needed instead.

 

 

Filler vs. Sealant

A quick thing to take note of is the difference between concrete crack filler and sealant. The best concrete crack filler is made to fill into cracks and holes to provide long-lasting strength to fix the crack. This is more of an internal product. The best concrete crack sealer will cover the outside of a crack, sealing it off to protect it against the weather. This can include things like concrete caulk.

 

 

The Best Concrete Crack Filler Products

With all of the different options out there, choosing the best concrete crack filler can be a difficult task. How do you know what the best concrete patch for your project is? To make this easier, we have selected the best concrete crack sealers in various categories below. If you are after the best concrete crack filler, then be sure to pick one of these effective products.

 

Best Concrete Crack Filler Kit: Applied Technologies Concrete Crack Repair Kit

If you are after the best concrete crack filler kit, then this complete solution by Applied Technologies is ideal. This kit includes everything you need to fix your damaged concrete, making repairs easier and more efficient. The kit includes a fast curing surface sealer, injection polyurethane foam, safety goggles, gloves, and every tool required for using the filler. There is even a step-by-step instructional DVD to help make the process easier.

Besides being incredibly user-friendly, this kit also offers serious results. The poxy paste bonds incredibly tightly with the concrete to make the polyurethane injection much more effective. The sealer and injection polyurethane foam is super fast sealing to make the job easier. Once cured, the formula effectively stops water from leaking through. The kit also comes with two cartridges of poxy paste which makes this product stretch further than most others.

This kit can be used to cover and seal hairline cracks and wider areas of concrete damage. It is an incredibly forgiving concrete caulk kit that any person, regardless of their skill level, should be able to apply. The main bonus is that every single aspect of the kit that you need is included – saving you plenty of shopping. Of course, the results are also excellent. The polyurethane won’t shrink and is very fast setting.

 

Best Liquid Cement Crack Filler: Bluestar Flexible Concrete Crack Filler

Liquid cement crack filler is a brilliant product for filling fine cracks and getting into hard-to-reach places. If you are after the best liquid cement crack filler, then we have got to recommend this product by Bluestar. The crack filler is suitable for filling up smaller cracks that are no wider than an inch. All you need to do is stick the easy application nozzle into the crack and fill it up – it’s that simple. There are no tools required or difficult preparatory work when using this filler.

This product is a sealer and filler in one. This is a unique formula that offers a greater level of protection for a longer-lasting finish. The liquid cement crack filler is available in two different shades of grey to be able to easily match your concrete surface naturally. The formula is also flexible in both hot and cold weather, making it a versatile solution to keep around the house. If you are after the easiest, most effortless liquid cement crack filler, then we would have to recommend the Bluestar Flexible Concrete Crack Filler. It is versatile, flexible, easy to use, durable, and long-lasting.

 

Best Driveway Crack Filler: DAP Ready Mixed Concrete Patch

Looking for the best concrete patch for driveways or outdoor use? Then this option by Dap is our top recommendation. The Dap Ready Mixed Concrete Patch is the best driveway crack filler thanks to its excellent level of durability and weather resistance. The product can be used for patching cracks and breaks in concrete and masonry both indoors and outdoors. This is because it dries to a super durable, hard finish that can resist all types of weather.

This product is completely non-shrinking for more effective application. The crack filler is pretty easy to apply and can be used on a wide range of surfaces. This includes walls, floors, driveways, and more. Whether a hairline crack or a hols, this product will do the job. The consistency is enjoyable to work with, and it will certainly offer you a long-lasting concrete repair solution.

 

Best Concrete Caulk Filler: SIKA Self-Levelling Sealant

This self-leveling polyurethane sealant by Sika is the ultimate premium-grade solution for filling up cracks in concrete. The superior polyurethane solution does not require any tools for application. It levels itself, is water immersible once cured, and has an accelerated curing capacity.

This sealant is completely flexible and durable. It is perfect for stopping any vegetation growth coming through your gaps or cracks in concrete. It is also flexible enough to withstand fluctuating temperatures and damages caused by winter freeze/thaw cycles.

This sealer is water-resistant, weather-resistant, fully paintable, stainable, and sandable. It can be used to bridge gaps up to 1.5 inches wide. Basically, this is an easy to apply, long-lasting, weather-resistant, and flexible sealant for concrete. It is the ideal solution for all kinds of scenarios around the house.

 

Best Concrete Crack Repair Epoxy: RUST-OLEUM Concrete Patch and Repair

If you are after the best concrete crack repair epoxy, then Rust-Oleum is always a top brand to consider. This two-part epoxy concrete repair kit is the ultimate option for high-strength and durability. The kit is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and it can efficiently patch up cracks and holes in concrete.

The two-part epoxy is actually stronger than concrete once cured, so you don’t have to worry about it weathering and falling apart. This makes it a suitable choice for all kinds of scenarios. The industrial-strength epoxy offers a permanent bond to the concrete without any shrinking or cracking taking place.

Once mixed together, this formula is fast-curing and does not contain any harmful odors. Sure, epoxy may be daunting to many people, and it can be a little tricky to work with due to the mixing of each part. However, the stuff is actually fairly simple to apply, and once you use it you will achieve amazing results that can’t be compared to other weaker concrete crack fillers.

 

 

How to Choose the Best Concrete Crack Filler

Although we have revealed the best concrete crack filler products above, they all vary quite a bit. So, how do you choose the best concrete crack filler for your project? Follow the important considerations below to see the criteria for these products.

 

Mixing the Concrete Filler

Cement filler is available in two different forms. This is either a ready-to-use pre-mixed product or a product that still requires mixing. Mixable products can include things like concrete crack repair epoxy that use epoxy and a hardener. Things like concrete caulk are already packed and ready to use.

Basically, the choice depends on your personal preferences. Sometimes products that require mixing are more effective, but they require more work. Pre-mixed products are obviously much easier to apply, but they can also be more expensive. Choose a product that you are comfortable working with for a better experience.

 

How it is Applied

Cement crack filler comes in many different shapes and forms. You can get liquid cement crack filler is a squeeze bottle that is inserted directly into the crack. You can get concrete caulk that is applied in a caulking gun. Most of the best concrete patches have a thicker consistency and come in a tub that you apply with a putty knife.

The application method affects how much work the concrete filler is to apply, and what kind of application it is suitable for. Generally, liquid fillers in bottles are more suitable for hairline cracks, while larger-scale fillers in tubs are used to patch up holes and wider cracks.

The number of tools needed or additional elements, such as temperature, also need to be considered. Some of the best concrete crack fillers come in a set with everything you need to apply the filler. Others require additional tools and processes for the application.

 

How Long the Filler Takes to Dry

Drying time is an important factor. If you are doing an external job, the drying time should also be considered alongside the weather report, as you don’t want any surprise rainstorms hitting your freshly applied concrete sealer.

Water-based sealers are quicker to dry than the formula that requires mixing. The drying time can vary greatly. Some epoxy fillers may even need around 24 hours before it is fully cured. Understand the job you are doing first and the time requirements you have available before choosing a concrete filler.

 

Weather Resistance

One of the main reasons people apply concrete crack fillers is to fix up damage that has been previously made by weather issues. The best concrete crack filler needs to be completely resistant to bad weather conditions. This includes things like rain and water damage, snow and ice, intense sunshine, and so on. The concrete filler should also be flexible enough to be able to withstand heat fluctuations and freeze-thaw cycles.

Weather-resistance is particularly important for things like a driveway crack filler used outside. The best concrete crack filler products that we have chosen above all display a good level of water and weather-resistance in order to fully support the concrete.

 

Where You Will be Applying the Concrete Crack Filler

The best concrete crack filler really just depends on the job you will be using it for. Different types of cement crack fillers are suitable for different types of applications. Make sure to use a formula that works with your scenario.

The first thing to consider is whether it is an indoor or outdoor concrete crack filler. Not all products can be used in both scenarios, so be sure to check this information on the packaging first. Then you need to understand the consistency of the filler and how it can be used on your application. Runny crack filler is great for flat surfaces and floor cracks. If you use it on walls, there is a good chance it will drip down. The liquid filler is also best used for very fine cracks. The thicker crack filler that you need to level out and sand down is a good choice for wall applications or larger holes and cracks where portions of the concrete are missing.

 

Shrinkage

This depends on the type of formula that you use, but shrinkage is always something to consider. In some cases, you will apply the concrete crack filler, and it will reduce in size as it cures. This can leave loose areas, and prevent the filler from properly filling out the crack. Be sure that the formula is non-shrinking so that you don’t have any issues once it has cured. However, it is always a good idea to overfill the crack slightly just to make up for this possibility. Additional filler can always be sanded down again to match the concrete surface.

 

 

How to Apply Concrete Crack Filler

Now that you know how to find the best concrete crack filler, you will need to apply it. Luckily, fillers and sealers are easy to apply and can be done at home without the need for specialized tools or expertise. While the application process changes with different products, here is a basic guide to follow when applying the best concrete crack filler.

 

Get Your Concrete Crack Filler

The first step is to choose the right concrete crack filler for your application. This can be done based on the steps and guidelines laid out above. Basically, concrete cannot be fixed with concrete – it requires a special cement filler. There are various different options available, and you will need to choose a formula and consistency that matches the crack. Also, make sure to buy enough filler to cover the whole job.

 

Prepare the Concrete Area

Before you can apply the concrete crack filler, you will need to prepare the area for its application. We are going to assume that the crack being filled is a little larger than just a hairline crack. Start by removing any loose bits of concrete. This can be crumbled away with a scraper or knocked away with a small hammer. When all of the pieces of loose concrete have been removed, take a piece of steel wool and rub it all over the area of the crack. This will help to remove any remaining loose pieces of concrete to ensure that you only have a solid surface to work from.

You can then wipe down and clean up the cracked area. This should be free from any dust, first, or remaining pieces of concrete. The cleaner the area is, the better the concrete filler will bond to the surface.

This can be a very messy job, so be prepared for plenty of dust. Try to wear a respirator mask, and lay down any protective sheeting if you are working on a wall, as the concrete dist will fall and settle below the area you are clearing out.

 

Apply the Concrete Crack Filler

Now that the area is ready for application, it’s just a matter of applying the crack filler and leaving it to dry. We have outlined the process for two of the most popular filler options below.

 

Mortar Mix Application

If you are filling in bigger cracks, holes, or missing pieces of concrete, then you will need to use a mortar mix. First, the formula will need mixing. You can create your own mortar mix yourself, but it is easiest to buy a powdered formula and simply add water.

One mixed, slightly dampen the area where you will apply it with water. Then use a putty knife or masons trowel and apply the ix into the hole or crack. Each time you add in more mortar mix, press down on the mixture to remove any air bubbles. Keep filling the area, layer by layer until it is completely full. Use your tool to even off the surface and leave it to dry. This should take around two hours but can take a full day. Once dried, you may need to sand down the area slightly to make sure that it is smooth and even. Then you can paint over it if you wish.

 

Epoxy/Latex Application

Epoxy or latex fillers should be used on any cracks that are ⅛ inch wide or smaller. Start by mixing together the epoxy product. This will come in two separate parts that require thorough mixing in order for the concrete patch to work. Once mixed, the solution can be applied to the crack with a putty knife or masons trowel.

The process is the same as above, except that the drying time may differ. This can be found on the products information. Fill in the hole completely, make sure that the filler is pressed down so that there are no air bubbles or empty pockets, and smooth it out. Then leave the filler to dry completely.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What are the Best Concrete Floor Crack Repair Products?

Concrete floor crack repair products need to be durable to withstand heavy use. The product you choose should depend on how big the crack is. Typically, you can use an epoxy concrete sealer, a polyurethane product, or a special mortar mix to fix the crack.

 

How Long Does it Take Concrete Crack Filler to Dry?

This depends on the product that you use, how much you apply, and what the environmental conditions are. Typically, a repair product should try to touch in about 2 hours. However, it may take a few days until it is completely dry.

 

Can Hairline Cracks in Concrete Get Worse?

Hairline cracks are not a major issue and shouldn’t cause serious concern. This is a normal feature of concrete. However, it is best to fox and control them when you can. This can be done easily with the best concrete crack filler.

 

And there you go, fixing damaged concrete is not actually too difficult. Follow our simple guide to help you find the best concrete crack filler, and applying it should be a simple process. We wish you the best of luck with your DIY job ahead!