Sealing is a way to eliminate cracks in concrete!

What is one of the main enemies concrete structures? This is moisture, especially its effect on deformed concrete surfaces is dangerous. That is why it is better not to eliminate the appearance of cracks, but to prevent them in advance, strengthening concrete structures, covering them with special compounds, and conducting preventive examinations. But if, nevertheless, there were reasons that led to the deformation of concrete, modern construction technologies allow you to fix this. Today I will tell you about another way to eliminate cracks in concrete structures - sealing.

Sealing Is the process of filling cracks in concrete sealant - a special agent that strengthens the surface, creates protection against moisture and environmental influences, enhances adhesion. Sealing is applicable only for sealing blind cracks. If the crack is through, sealing will only give a short-term result.

Sealants are divided into two types -

surface application and penetrating action. Based on the names, it is clear that a penetrating sealant is used to fill cracks and seams from the inside, and a surface sealant is required to cover the outside of the structure to provide additional protection against moisture. You also need to pay attention to the type and speed of solidification, the method and technique of application, the coefficient of elasticity.

In addition to these characteristics, sealants also differ in composition:

1. Acrylic. Has the toughest composition. Begins to set approximately 20 minutes after application. Dries completely in 2-3 weeks.

2. Polyurethane. They are elastic. During the filling process, the crack expands and fills the entire space inside. Grabs in about an hour. It will take 6-7 hours for 1 mm of polyurethane sealant to fully cure.

3. Thiokol. They are used in aggressive environments, with frequent changes in temperature or exposure to chemicals. Grabbing in a couple of hours. Final hardening takes place after 60 hours.

4.Silicone, bituminous, rubber.

The technology of sealing cracks in concrete

I must say right away that if the sealing takes place indoors, then it should be ventilated both during operation and during the drying period of the sealant. Sealing consists of several stages:

• Expansion of the crack and its cleaning of dust, debris and building particles.
• Preparation of the mortar for filling cracks. It can be like a ready-made solution. Or a mixture of several components that must be premixed.
• Filling the crack with sealant. This can be done with a spatula, brush, or a construction gun.
• Removing excess sealant. The sealant cures quickly enough, so don't put off removing excess material until later.

Apply an additional layer if necessary. In this case, the lower and upper layers of the sealant must be aligned in opposite directions.

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