Repairing Concrete
By: Amanda Campbell
Updated: August 12, 2010
When repairing concrete, it is important to select the right product for the repair. A product ideally suited for general patching may not work well on small cracks or fractures. Large surfaces require patching with a cement-based like Quickrete Latex Cement and Quikrete San Mix used with Concrete Bonding Adhesive is the best choice for repairing holed and broken areas up to 2 inches deep.
You will need Latex Cement, Sand Mix, Concrete Bonding Adhesive, Concrete & Asphalt Cleaner, wire brush, broom, sponge, pointing trowel, finishing trowel and wooden float along with safety glasses or goggles.
Remove all loose flaked, dirt and dust from the area. Scrub away any grease, oil or stubborn dirt using the Concrete & Asphalt cleaner. Dampen the surface with clean water, but do not leave any standing water. Use the Sand Mix for any large holes mixed with the Concrete Bonding Adhesive.
The Latex Cement is a fast drying mixture which sets up in 20 minutes. Apply the latex cement to the surface using a large finishing trowel. Apply pressure to ensure a good bond. Run a straightedge back and forth over the repaired area to level the patching material or use a finishing trowel.
For Steps, use Quick Setting Cement, Concrete Bonding Adhesive, Acrylic Fortifier, Concrete & Asphalt Cleaner, wire brush, Cold Chisel, hammer, broom or brush, sponge, pointing trowel, finishing trowel, a board and a brick, an edging tool and wooden float along with safety glasses or goggles.
Undercut any broken area with a cold chisel and hammer. Remove all dirt and loose debris with a brush and use Concrete Cleaner on the surface. Put your board along the step and hold in place with a brick or rock. This is your form.
For repairs less than one inch deep, mix Quikrete Concrete Acrylic Fortifier with the Quick setting cement. For repairs over one inch, omit the fortifier but apply a coat of Bonding Adhesive before making the repair. Mix according to directions and only enough to be applied in 5 minutes. Dampen the surface and apply the mix. Allow Quick setting cement to gain initial set in 5-10 minutes. Then sculpt the patch by using trowel or edging tool.












