What causes cracks in concrete bird baths?
Concrete bird baths can develop cracks over time for a variety of reasons:
- Weathering and erosion – Exposure to the elements like sun, rain, snow and ice can gradually wear away at concrete over time, causing cracks to form.
- Settling and shifting – If the ground underneath the bird bath settles or shifts, it can cause stress cracks in the concrete.
- Improper installation – If the bird bath wasn’t installed properly on a solid, level foundation, it may develop cracks from instability or movement.
- Freeze/thaw cycles – Water seeping into concrete and freezing during winter can expand and create cracks in the concrete.
- Poor quality concrete – Concrete that wasn’t mixed properly or that contained too much water can be prone to cracking as it cures.
- Impact damage – Dropping a heavy object on the bird bath, animals climbing on it, etc. can cause impact cracks.
Over time, small hairline cracks can expand and deepen as water penetrates into the concrete, causing additional damage in freeze/thaw cycles. The good news is that most cracks in concrete bird baths can be repaired rather than requiring a complete replacement.
Should you repair cracked concrete bird baths?
Repairing cracks in a concrete bird bath is usually preferable to fully replacing the entire bath for several reasons:
- Cost – Repairs are often much cheaper than a full replacement.
- Convenience – Repairs can often be done on-site without having to dispose of or replace the entire bath.
- Preserve look – Repairs allow you to keep the same bath and appearance.
- Quick solution – Many repairs can be done quickly to restore the integrity of the bath.
- Prevent further damage – Repairing cracks prevents them from expanding and causing further damage to the bird bath.
As long as the overall bird bath remains structurally sound, repairing the cracked areas can restore it to full function. However, if there are many wide cracks, chunks missing, or the cracks compromise the stability of the bath, a replacement may be the better option. Evaluate the extent and severity of the damage before deciding whether repairs are worthwhile.
How to repair hairline cracks
For hairline cracks less than 1/8 inch wide, basic repairs with concrete caulk or patching compound can often suffice to seal up the cracks and waterproof the bird bath again:
Materials needed:
- Concrete caulk, patching compound or hydraulic cement
- Cleaning supplies – Wire brush, damp cloth
- Paintbrush, putty knife or trowel
- Gloves and eye protection
Steps:
- Clean out cracks thoroughly using a wire brush to remove all dirt, debris and loose concrete.
- Wipe down the area with a damp cloth to remove dust.
- Apply concrete caulk, patching compound or hydraulic cement along the length of the cracks using a paintbrush or putty knife. Press the material firmly into the cracks.
- Smooth out the material, wiping away any excess. Follow product instructions for drying time.
The concrete caulk or compound will seal up the cracks and prevent water from seeping in and expanding the cracks further. This is an easy do-it-yourself fix for minor hairline cracks.
How to repair larger cracks
For larger cracks wider than 1/8 inch across, stronger repair materials and methods will be needed:
Materials needed:
- Concrete patching compound, hydraulic cement or concrete resurfacer
- Epoxy crack filler/injection kit (for deep cracks)
- Mesh tape or fiberglass sheet (for structural cracks)
- Concrete sealer
- Angle grinder with concrete blade / chisel and hammer
- Wire brush, scraper, cloths
- Trowel, putty knife, caulk gun
- Gloves, goggles, mask
Steps:
- Widen cracks with an angle grinder or chisel/hammer to open them up for patching.
- Clean out loose debris and dust thoroughly with a wire brush and scraper.
- Apply an epoxy crack injection adhesive for deep cracks and allow to harden fully.
- Apply mesh tape or fiberglass sheet over structural cracks for reinforcement.
- Fill and seal cracks with concrete patching compound, pressing it firmly into cracks.
- Smooth the patch flush with the surrounding surface.
- Allow patching compound to cure fully, then apply concrete sealer over the entire surface.
This more intensive repair process allows you to fill larger, deeper cracks, reinforce structural cracks and seal the surface to prevent future water damage. Ensure the patch remains even and level with the existing bird bath.
How to repair chips and gouges
For small chips, pits and gouges in the concrete:
Materials needed:
- Concrete resurfacer or filler
- Concrete sealer
- Putty knife or trowel
- Paintbrush
- Angle grinder (optional)
Steps:
- Widen and deepen chips and gouges slightly with an angle grinder if needed to ensure a good resurfacing.
- Clean out damaged areas fully.
- Fill gaps and voids with concrete resurfacer, pressing it firmly into the damaged areas.
- Smooth it flush to the surface, matching the existing contours.
- Allow to cure fully, then apply concrete sealer.
The concrete resurfacer will fill in the damaged spots and seal them over. For best results, tint the resurfacer to match the color of your existing bird bath.
When to call in a pro
While many minor cracks and defects can be repaired by a DIYer, sometimes it’s best to call in a professional concrete repair contractor for the job. Consider professional repairs for:
- Extensive cracking over large areas of the bird bath
- Deep cracks wider than 1/4 inch
- Signs of shifting, sinking or structural instability
- Large damaged areas that require resurfacing
- Cracks that keep reappearing despite repairs
- If you need to match decorative finishes like stamped patterns
- If DIY efforts have proven unsuccessful
Professionals have specialized tools, materials and techniques to thoroughly repair significant damage and stabilize the structure of the bird bath as needed. This is recommended if cracks are very severe.
Tips for preventing future cracks
To help prevent new cracks from forming after repairs, consider these tips:
- Seal the repaired bird bath with a water repellent concrete sealer to prevent water seeping into cracks.
- Apply caulk around the base where it meets the ground to seal it from moisture.
- Install the bird bath on a gravel base for drainage rather than direct ground contact.
- Avoid placing the birdbath where it’s exposed to moving water from sprinklers, drainage spouts, etc.
- Install the bath on a completely flat, level site.
- For cold climates, empty and cover the bath in winter to prevent freeze-thaw cracks.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on the rim of the bath that could cause impact cracks.
- Consider installing flexible expansion joints when installing a new bath.
With proper repairs and preventative maintenance, concrete bird baths can remain beautiful and functional for many years before needing replacement. Don’t hesitate to repair cracks as soon as they appear to help extend the life of your birdbath.
Conclusion
Most cracked concrete bird baths can be repaired rather than replaced. For minor hairline cracks, simple concrete caulk or patching compounds can often seal them up and waterproof the bath. More extensive cracks over 1/8 inch wide will require widening the cracks, cleaning thoroughly, filling with concrete resurfacer and sealing the surface. Small chips and pits can also be patched and smoothed over. While DIY repairs are suitable for many smaller flaws, it’s best to call in a professional concrete repair contractor if there is extensive cracking or structural instability. With diligent repairs and preventative care, a quality concrete birdbath can remain a beautiful backyard asset for many years to come.
Table 1: Bird Bath Repair Materials
Damage Type | Recommended Materials |
---|---|
Hairline cracks | Concrete caulk, hydraulic cement, patching compound |
Large cracks | Concrete patching compound, epoxy injection adhesive, fiberglass mesh |
Chips/gouges | Concrete resurfacer or filler |
Sealing | Concrete sealer |
Table 2: Bird Bath Repair Steps
Damage Type | Repair Steps |
---|---|
Hairline cracks |
|
Large cracks |
|
Chips/gouges |
|
Table 3: Bird Bath Crack Prevention Tips
Preventative Measure | Details |
---|---|
Seal surface | Apply water-repellent concrete sealer regularly |
Install gravel base | Prevents ground moisture from damaging bottom |
Avoid water exposure | Don’t install near sprinklers or drainage spouts |
Level, stable installation | Prevents cracking from shifting or settling |
Winterize in cold climates | Empty bath and cover to prevent freeze-thaw cracks |
Avoid impact damage | Don’t place heavy objects on bird bath rim |
Install expansion joints | Absorbs shifting and prevents cracks |