Concrete patio cracked. leave,fix, replace with__?

[Angela Zaitz]

Im going to be renting out condo in So Cal - Murrieta . Area often get frequent highs over 100 degrees in summer and soil not the best. I have a 40x15’ concrete slab patio that takes up most of the patio. The slab has a notable crack across the length of the slab. The width being 1/4-1/3” wide. The crack does not create the surface to be uneven so it is not a trip hazard. I was told that if I pour a new slab or a slurry on top, in this area, it will just crack again. There is also barriers to pouring cement as the only entrance to patio from outside is through the standard size door through garage. I thought of putting a faux flagstone topper but I was told that will raise it up to high and since connected to building may cause water damage. I thought of putting a pebble epoxy on top, but don’t know anyone who has done that to ask if that would be appropriate. I’m also not sure if it would deter renters if I just leave it as is. I’m new to this and would appreciate any suggestions for patio and if you know any good workman in the area. Thanks!

[Matthew Dea]

Hi Angela, I’m a civil engineer and work with concrete quite a bit. What you are describing doesn’t sound bad. I would clean out the crack and get rid of any spalls along the crack you can see. I would vacuum up any dust and then apply a concrete crack filler (ie Sakrete). You can pick up any kind of crack filler at Home Depot. Apply, spread, and level the filler with a putty knife and then let it cure. 

Hope this helps.