Home >> Science & Nature >> Rocks & Minerals

How to Repair Cracks in Concrete Retaining Walls

When you find a crack in your concrete retaining wall, it may initially be very alarming to you. In fact, cracks formed in concrete walls are quite common as the wall settles into the ground over the years. Repairing cracks in a retaining wall is very easy to do and can be accomplished by even the most inexperienced do-it-yourself repairman. With the help of a concrete repair kit and a trowel, the crack in the retaining wall will not be there much longer. For the purpose of this article, the instructions given are for repairing a cinder block retaining wall.

Things You'll Need

Concrete repair kit (found at all harware stores)
Caulking gun (if needed)
Trowel
Hammer (if needed)
Flat-head screwdriver (if needed)
Putty knife
Stiff hand broom

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the wall. Closely examine the condition of the wall. Locate all of the cracks and determine if the wall is still solid or if it is beginning to crumble. If the wall is solid and only plagued with a few minor cracks, the repair process will be quick and easy.
- 2
  Examine each crack. Every crack in the wall will be different. Examine each crack and fracture in the wall to determine the depth of the damage.
- 3
  Remove loose particles. If the crack occurred in the mortar of the wall, any loose and crumbling mortar will have to be removed. Removal can be accomplished by gently tapping a screwdriver with a hammer. Dust off excess particles with a stiff hand broom.
- 4
  Make repair. All repair kits are different and there are so many on the market to choose from. Follow the directions noted on the package. Most concrete repair kits come in a tube filled with epoxy. Simply fill the crack with the kit contents.
- 5
  Smooth out the repair. Do not allow excess epoxy to flow from the repaired area. To ensure a smooth finish, use a trowel or a putty knife to smooth the area. Allow the repair to dry.

Rocks & Minerals