How-to Guide

Instruction guide and tips for repairing leaking cracks in concrete with Sakrete plug-tite.

How to Repair Leaking Cracks in Concrete

Stop water leaks that result from breaks in concrete! Use SAKRETE plug-tite, a quick-setting, non-shrink, hydraulic cernent.

SAKRETE plug-tite is a quick-setting, hydraulic cernent designed to stop the flow of water through breaks in ail concrete and masonry surfaces..

Uses

Use this product to stop active water leaks through breaks in all concrete and masonry surfaces, such as basement walls or floors, tunnels, storage tanks, pools, pils, cisterns, construction faults and holes.

lt may also be used on inactive leaks.

PROCEDURES: Mix and substrate temperatures should be maintained between 5 °C (40 °F) and 30 °C (86 °F) for at least 24 hours prior to and 48 hours after. Cold temperatures will slow the setting time and hot temperatures will accelerate the setting time.

STEP 1: Surface Preparation: All surfaces to be in contact with SAKRETE plug-tite must be free from dust, oil, grease or any other foreign substances that may interfere with the bond of the material. Cracks should be saw-cut or chiseled out in the shape of a "U", deeper than wider. For instance, 19 mm (3/4 inch) long x 12 mm (1/2 inch) wide. Dampen inactive leaks to be repaired with potable water, leaving the concrete saturated but free of standing water.

STEP 2: Mixing: ln a disposable plastic pail, place approximately 1 part potable water followed by 2.5parts SAKRETE plug-tite or 300 ml (10 oz) of water per 1 KG (2.2lb) of SAKRETE plug-tite. Mix quickly and thoroughly. Once pliable, form into a ball. This is an approximate ratio, therefore it is recommended that you add sufficient water which will form a pliable solid ball. Due to limited working time of 3 to 5 minutes, mix only enough material for immediate use. Water temperature will effect set time. Cold temperatures will slow the setting time and hot temperatures will accelerate the setting lime. SAKRETE plug-tite cannot be reworked after it has set.

STEP 3: Placing: Active leaks (flowing water through a surface break) or inactive leaks: After mixing the material into a pliable solid ball, pickup the material with a gloved hand (it should now be warm to the touch). Force SAKRETE plug-tite into the dampened prepared opening using a putty knife, trowel or with the palm of the rubber gloved hand. Hold in place 3 to 5 minutes, ensuring a complete set and sufficient bond. This should be enough time to stop active leaks. lmmediately following this step, smooth and trim the patched area flush to the surrounding surface.

STEP 4: Curing: No special curing is required.

How-to Video

Tips for repairing leaking cracks in concrete with SAKRETE plug-tite:
  1. Use only on clean and properly prepared surfaces.
  2. Repair cracks.
  3. Use a wire brush and/or scrape clean.
  4. Remove paint.
  5. Apply to a damp surface.
  6. Use proper safety equipment (i.e. safety glasses, gloves, etc.).