Question from Suzanne Foster
Hi Debra,
I have removed the carpeting from my bedroom and bathroom. The concrete floor has several large cracks in it from where the building has settled. Is there any non-toxic product to fill the cracks?
I am very sensitive to smells and will not be able to move elsewhere while and after it is done.
Thank you so much for all that you do.
Debra’s Answer
First, here’s an article that outlines the basics of filling cracks in cement: WiseGEEK: How Can I Repair Cracks in Concrete?
It says to use a siliconized latex concrete caulk or concrete patching compound. Both are likely to contain some toxic ingredients.
But you can follow these instructions and just use regular concrete powder mixed with water for the patch.
A lot of concrete crack fillers are designed to fill concrete cracks outdoors, thus the toxic ingredients for waterproofing. But indoors you don’t need this.
If you need to, put a thin “skim coat” of concrete over the entire floor so the crack repairs will not be visible.
