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How to Fix Up Old Concrete Floors

Concrete is a tough and resilient surface that can withstand the use of many different cleaning solutions. Thus, it is easy to care for as long as it is intact. Old concrete floors will often have cracks running through them. The ground under the concrete floor can settle and shift because of temperature, earthquakes or natural settling, causing cracks. Cracks are common, but you can fix them when they occur to restore the pristine look of your concrete floor. Concrete floors can also become pitted, and in that case, you will need to resurface the floor completely. Resurface the floor after fixing cracks.

Things You'll Need

  • Scrubbing brush
  • Urethane caulk
  • Foam backer rod
  • Paint scraper
  • Spoon (optional)
  • Pressure washer
  • Push broom
  • Resurfacing concrete powder
  • Bucket
  • Paint stirrers
  • Long-handled floor squeegee
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Instructions

  1. Fixing Narrow Cracks

    • 1

      Dry brush the crack to remove any loose debris. Work until the crack is completely clear of dust and concrete residue.

    • 2

      Apply concrete caulk directly into the concrete crack. Push the caulk into the crack with the caulk nozzle.

    • 3

      Smooth the caulk with a paint scraper so that it lays flat over the concrete surface.

    • 4

      Let the caulk dry completely according to the manufacturer's directions.

    Fixing Wide Cracks

    • 5

      Press foam backer rod into the entire length of the crack. The foam rod will help support the caulk. Purchase a foam backer rod that is one size larger than the width of the crack, as the foam will compress for a tight fit.

    • 6

      Fill the crack with urethane caulk. Fill the areas around the foam backer rod.

    • 7

      Smooth the caulk with a paint scraper or with an old spoon if the crack is against a wall.

    • 8

      Let the caulk dry completely.

    Resurfacing Concrete

    • 9

      Fill a pressure washer with water and concrete cleaning solution. Spray the entire concrete floor, paying special attention to stained areas. Rinse the floor with clear water from the pressure washer to rinse away the cleaning solution.

    • 10

      Push any excess water off the concrete floor with a push broom.

    • 11

      Mix the resurfacing concrete according to the manufacturer's directions. This involves adding water to the concrete and mixing until it has an even consistency. The resurfacing concrete should have a thin consistency.

    • 12

      Pour the concrete into one puddle in the middle of the concrete floor. Press the concrete into the pits in the floor with a long-handled floor squeegee. Immediately pull the squeegee back over the area to remove any lines. Spread the concrete across the entire floor working toward an exit.

    • 13

      Let the concrete dry completely and apply a second coat if the pits are still visible. Use the same method for the second coat. Let the floor dry completely for 24 hours.