What to Do When GRC Cracks? 2024 Professional Treatment Solutions and Emergency Measures

There is no need to panic over cracks in GRC; the key is to quickly identify the crack type and take targeted treatment measures. With 28 years of repair experience, Qinglong GRC manufacturer classifies cracks into three categories—hairline cracks, visible cracks, and structural cracks—and provides safe and efficient treatment methods for each to keep the problem from escalating.

Hairline cracks (width < 0.3mm): surface repair to prevent penetration

Hairline cracks are mostly caused by ambient temperature changes or minor impacts and do not affect structural safety; the focus is on sealing to prevent penetration. The treatment steps are: first clean dust and debris from the crack surface and dry it with a blower; then apply Qinglong's special repair agent (a blend of cement, quartz sand, and special admixtures), making sure it penetrates into the crack; finally smooth the surface with a scraper to keep the texture consistent with the surrounding area. Such cracks are easy to treat and can be repaired yourself or by contacting the manufacturer for repair materials. For example, some of the GRC components matching the GRG interior of the Guiyang Huaguoyuan project developed hairline cracks; after surface repair, long-term use showed no sign of widening. After treatment, avoid contact with water in the short term and cure for at least 24 hours.

Visible cracks (width 0.3-1mm): filling and reinforcement to enhance bonding

Visible cracks have penetrated the component's surface layer and require filling and reinforcement to prevent further cracking. During treatment, first widen 5-10mm along the crack to form a V-shaped groove, clean out impurities and dry it; fill with Qinglong's special repair mortar (with alkali-resistant glass fiber added to enhance bonding) and compact it with tools; cover the surface with fiberglass mesh and apply a layer of repair agent to ensure firm bonding with the component. Such cracks should be handled by professionals. For example, some visible cracks appeared in the 15mm ultra-thin GRC panels of the Wuhan Han Show Theatre; after Qinglong's after-sales team applied this solution, strength was restored to the original standard. After treatment, cure for 3-7 days and avoid impact or loading during this period.

Structural cracks (width > 1mm or through cracks): professional assessment, replacement or reinforcement

Structural cracks may affect component stability; stop using the component immediately and contact the manufacturer for professional assessment. If the crack is not through-going and the component's strength is intact, a reinforcement solution can be adopted: drill holes on both sides of the crack, insert stainless steel anchor pins, then fill with repair mortar and wrap with fiberglass cloth; if the crack runs through or the component's strength has declined, the component must be removed and replaced with a new one to avoid safety hazards. Qinglong has professional testing equipment and a repair team. For example, the GRC curtain wall of the Shenzhen Longhua Xiangshan Science and Technology Park once developed structural cracks; after on-site testing, the team quickly customized replacement components and completed installation without affecting the project's use. Treatment of such cracks must strictly follow industry standards, and blind self-repair is prohibited.

The core principle for handling GRC cracks is "assess first, then treat, professionals first." Qinglong GRC manufacturer provides 24-hour emergency response service; upon receiving feedback, it quickly dispatches professionals to the site for assessment and provides customized treatment solutions, while also offering customers crack prevention guidance, such as avoiding prolonged sun exposure of components and regularly inspecting fixed areas. Proper crack treatment ensures the safe use of GRC and extends its service life.