How to Change Quikrete Backer Rods

Extracting Backer Rods

• 1

  Work in a well-ventilated area. Wear safety glasses and waterproof gloves before working with polyurethane products such as sealant.

• 2

  Clean the cracked cement area. Break off any loose cement or old cement sealant with a chisel or hammer. Chip off the cracked area so it is a minimum of 1/4 inch wide. Use cement sealant removal, according to manufacturer instructions, if necessary.

• 3

  Dig with the chisel or a putty knife to extract the current backer rod in place.

• 4

  Clean off the area with a bristle brush and cloth. Allow the area to dry before proceeding

Installing Backer Rods

• 5

  Cut the backer rod to the correct length with a utility knife. Use your hands or a narrow tool to push the rod into the crack. Place the rod so it rests parallel to about halfway down the depth of the crack.

• 6

  Be careful not to stretch or puncture the rod to completely seal the crack.

• 7

  Place a polyurethane concrete crack sealer into a caulk gun. Cut off the nozzle tip of the sealer at an angle with the utility knife.

• 8

  Point the caulk gun along the crack. Force the concrete sealant caulk into the crack filling it up to the backer rod.

• 9

  Remove any excess sealant and smooth over the area with a trowel. Allow the sealant at least two hours to dry before placing any weight on the concrete.