Cracks in concrete are common—but they can’t be ignored when you’re installing a new floor coating. Whether it’s a garage floor, patio, commercial warehouse, or walkway, repairing damage before applying an epoxy or polyurea system is essential for a long-lasting, beautiful result.

At DFW Flake & Epoxy Floor Coatings, we prioritize quality from the ground up—literally. This blog explains why repairing cracks is non-negotiable, what the process looks like, and how it affects the outcome of your floor.

Why Cracks Happen in Concrete

Even freshly poured concrete isn’t immune to cracks. Causes include:

• Shrinkage during curing
• Temperature changes leading to expansion/contraction
• Soil movement or settling
• Heavy loads or impact stress

Most surface cracks are cosmetic, but if left untreated, they’ll:

• Worsen over time
• Allow moisture to seep in
• Compromise coating adhesion

✅ Bottom Line: Cracks aren’t just ugly—they’re structural weak points.

What Happens If You Don’t Repair Cracks?

If coatings are applied over unaddressed cracks:

• They may delaminate or peel as the crack widens
• Water can enter, leading to bubbling or mold
• Cracks can reflect through the coating, ruining the finish
• You’ll likely need costly rework sooner than expected

✅ Takeaway: Repairing before coating is an investment in longevity.

Our Crack Repair Process at DFW Flake & Epoxy

Before any coating is applied, our team performs a detailed inspection and follows a multi-step prep process:

1. Surface Evaluation: We inspect for hairline cracks, spalling, and structural damage.
2. Crack Chasing: Cracks are opened slightly with a grinder to allow full penetration of repair material.
3. Filling: We use industrial-grade epoxy or polyurea crack filler, which cures rock-hard and bonds deep.
4. Grinding and Smoothing: Once cured, the area is sanded flat for seamless coating application.

The repaired area blends with the surrounding surface and becomes part of the strong foundation your new coating relies on.

Can You Coat Over Large Cracks or Damaged Concrete?

Yes, but proper repair is essential first. We’ve successfully coated:

• Older garage slabs
• Patios with years of wear
• Commercial floors with previous patchwork
• Driveways exposed to heavy vehicles

Even heavily damaged concrete can be restored with the right preparation—and that’s our specialty.

The DFW Flake & Epoxy Advantage

We don’t take shortcuts. Our commitment to quality includes:

• Proper surface prep for all cracks and spalling
• Use of top-tier repair compounds
• Seamless blending into your final coating system
• Clear communication about what to expect during prep and installation

Our goal is to give you a floor that performs and looks flawless for years to come.

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