What is the strongest concrete repair?

Concrete is a popular construction material, but it can also be vulnerable. In the event of damage, you want to make sure that you have a reliable repair method. There are several methods for repairing concrete: epoxy injection, steel fiber reinforcement, and post-tensioning with cables, among others.
Steel fiber reinforcement provides a good option if you need more strength than what epoxy injection offers and don’t mind some “spider web” cracking on the surface. Post-tensioning with cables is another excellent option for those looking to add strength without sacrificing aesthetics. 
This article identifies different methods of concrete repair and their strengths to help you choose a suitable method for your concrete repair.

Methods of Concrete Repair

Rebars

Rebars are installed in the appropriate location and pattern using cast-in-place or precast forms that can be applied while pumping wet concrete into place. The iron bars provide strength across the length and width of the repaired area while placing them at specific angles helps strengthen against shear forces.

After steel bars are back-filled with loose gravel, they are then covered with 6 inches of unreinforced cementitious grout, which acts as a capillary break, preventing moisture from migrating up and through the stone, thus increasing durability. If you have a larger crack or hole in your concrete, steel reinforcement bars may be the best option for you. Rebar is inserted into the hole and then cemented in place. This will create a sturdy foundation that can support heavy loads.

Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Injections

This is another concrete repair method used to strengthen joints, corners, and other areas in need of reinforcement. Woven fiberglass or polyester netting is saturated with resin and applied over the area needing strengthening. After curing, a mesh can be wrapped with plastic sheeting for protection against water intrusion while also creating a suitable substrate on which forming systems can be cast. It is often combined to maximize results while minimizing work time and cost like rebars.

Epoxy Injections

Epoxy injections are a great way to repair tiny cracks in concrete. The epoxy is injected into the crack, and then it hardens, filling the crack. This type of repair is strong and can last for many years.

Polyester Resin Injection

Polyester resin injections are used to fix large cracks in concrete. The polyester resin is mixed with a catalyst and injected into the crack. This type of repair is very durable and can last for many years.

What to Consider

Several factors must be considered before beginning work, whatever method is used to repair an area. First and foremost is whether particular repairs will provide better results than replacement.

In addition to this, each repair method has benefits and limitations based on where damage or deterioration is located and how much existing support exists in place. A knowledgeable specialist must carefully assess each situation before repairs begin.
When it comes to repairing concrete, there is no one-size-fits-all solution – you need to consider the specific needs of your project and choose the method that will provide the best results.