How to fix small cracks in exposed aggregate concrete?

[adhyarukrunal]

I had exposed aggregate concrete installed in my backyard last year, but unfortunately, the workmanship was subpar, leading to small cracks appearing in the concrete (please see the attached image). Could you suggest a long-term solution that both repairs the cracks and ensures a smooth, seamless finish to make the cracks less visible?

[Matkai]

Would this not be covered by warranty if it was only installed last year?

[JacobZ]

Hi @adhyarukrunal,

Thank you for your question and welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

As @Matkai has said, due to the age of the concrete, I would start by exploring your options in terms of warranty repairs. Assuming a contract was signed with your state building authority, you have legal recourse to have the defect rectified.

Cracks in concrete are unavoidable; this is why relief lines are often cut in concrete. They are there to allow expansion and contraction in the slab as well as to create a point of weakness, so the cracking follows a predefined path.

The problem with repairing cracks in concrete is that any repair to the surface is superficial and will likely reoccur quickly. They can happen for many reasons, but the lack of reinforcing steel in important areas is often the cause. 

Filling the crack with a product like this Dulux Avista Concrete Crack Repair Kit will give a superficial repair, but if the concrete continues to move over time, the crack will likely open up again.
 

There are companies that I've seen install Carbon-Fibre Crack Bridging Stitches and then resurface the concrete, but this is likely beyond the realm of D.I.Y.

I'd suggest you start by going down the path of a warranty repair, and if this doesn't prove fruitful, contact a company that specialises in concrete crack repairs.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob