How to Fix Cracks in a Concrete Garden Statue
Concrete garden statues add a sense of grandeur and elegance to any garden, but with age and wear can easily become cracked and unattractive. Cracks in your statues will also hasten their decline, as water and dirt seep into the chinks and scrapes, deteriorating your garden figures from the inside out. There's no need to pitch an otherwise perfect statue, however. With a few quick steps, your statue can be as good as new again. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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How To Repair Cracked Statues
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Purchase Quick Patch Epoxy from the local home improvement store. This is a heavy-duty, glue-like product that comes in two tubes and activates upon mixing.
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Prep your concrete statue by rinsing thoroughly with running water and cleaning with a small scrub or toothbrush. Do not use soap or other cleaning chemicals, as they can prevent the epoxy from adhering properly.
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Let the concrete statue dry completely. An air hose can help speed the process if you have one available, but allow the statue to rest for at least 24 hours whether you use one or not. Any moisture in the concrete will also reduce the effectiveness of the epoxy.
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Mix the Quick Patch Epoxy according to package instructions. You will have a limited work time once the two tubes are mixed, so it helps to read all directions before you cut the tubes.
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Apply the epoxy to the cracks in your statue. Use a popsicle stick to wipe up drips and smooth the epoxy into the cracks.
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Keep the statue shielded from rain and other elements until the epoxy has set according to package directions.
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Clean up unsightly edges and drips with a craft knife and sandpaper.
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Tips & Warnings
Quick Patch Epoxy is also great for reattaching arms, legs, or other missing pieces to your garden statues. Clean and dry both pieces as described above, and apply a thin layer of epoxy to areas that need to be glued. Press firmly together and clamp in place (if possible) until dry.
Another great tool for repairing larger cracks and chips in your statues is automotive Bondo putty. It comes in several colors and can be sanded and filed when dry. Mix the putty according to product instructions, and apply with a popsicle stick or Bondo scraper tool.
Always wear proper protection such as rubber gloves when working with epoxies and heavy sealants. The epoxy can bind to your skin and cause permanent eye damage. Use caution when handling these products.
