Repair a large concrete planter?
by
Sue11499370
+5
I have just inherited a large, one piece, concrete planter (150 lbs?), where the bottom is to be square in shape. Unfortunately, some of the corners have been broken away. I do not have all of the pieces. Can anyone recommend how I might repair this? Or, if very difficult, where I might even go to have this done professionally?
It has a lot of sentimental value, so I wish to try to restore it to its original appearance.
Adding more detail:
The planter has a ton of sentimental value to me, as it used to belong to my mom and dad. As I was a child, I recall how my dad proudly displayed many different flowering plants in it.
It also has historic value, that makes me desire to keep it as close to original as I can. In the 1940's, my parents purchased the planter from Al Capone's estate.
Due to the latter new info, any additional thoughts on how to go about maintaining the original structure?
Related Discussions
Suggested Project Book
I assume it's way too heavy to move around, so could you mix up some concrete, and using a small trowel, form new corners on it?
I agree with Rose, Use a former around the base of the planter to get a square shape. Use a Bonding Agent in the concrete mix to help . Or Buy a Square Slab a little bigger than the original base, and Stick the Planter on to it, and then Mould the new corners in place knowing that the Planter is secure . ( The extra height and Plinth will give it more presence too) Good luck!
Start by looking for a store that sells pottery. Try a nursery or place where lawn ornaments are sold. Bring a picture of the planter, and also take a close,-up of the part that's broken. They would help you, or know someone who can. This planter needs professional help, I don't think this is a project for a DYI. Good Luck!
They sell patcher in a bucket that I have used in the past from any hardware store that sets fast add that like glue and you may have to use tape to hold it in place until it sets in an hour
Hi Sue,
I have the same problem you do. I have a cement planter that I found and one whole piece is missing. I was able to join the other two pieces with Quikdry cement mix found at Home Depot. But the third piece is missing and I dunno how to go about it. Its a big cement pot with ornates around it. Anybody has a direct answer for Sue and I?
Mix some concrete and reform the edges with a trowel. The hardest part will be matching the color.
Place a thick bead of the mortar on both sides of the crack and pull the planter together. Use strips of cloth to hold the planter together. You can use duct tape, but it will not stick to the concrete so you will have to wrap it around and over on itself so it will stick to itself.
Use your trowel to smooth out the edges of the crack on the inside and on the outside of the planter, adding more mortar if necessary. It will help if you overlay the mortar onto the outside of the planter about half an inch on either side of the crack so that the concrete can get a better bond.
Allow the repaired planter to dry for the recommended time on the packaging of the repair mortar, usually at least 24 hours. Remove the cloth strips or duct tape. If you are planning on painting or sealing the planter, wait at least a week to make sure the repair has dried thoroughly. Your planter should now be ready for use.