How to Refinish Cement Patios
Despite its strength and durability, cement is not completely indestructible. When used on patios, for example, cement can develop cracks over time, typically caused by the earth settling under the cement pad, tree roots creating pressure under the slab, or winter to summer expansion as the earth thaws. Luckily, you can refinish your cement patio to look like new without having to re-pour the entire patio pad. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Pressure washer
- Masonry cleanser
- 5-gallon bucket
- Quick-dry concrete
- Water
- Mixing paddle
- Trowel
- Rubber squeegee
- Broom
Instructions
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1
Turn on the power washer and blast the entire patio, removing any dirt, mold, or mildew from the surface and deep in the cracks.
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2
Add masonry cleanser to the power washer container and rewash the patio to tackle stubborn stuck-on stains. Once again, be sure to get deep into the cracks.
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3
Mix quick concrete and water in a bucket. Use only enough to fill the cracks, stirring it with the mixing paddle.
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4
Fill the cracks with the concrete. This is best done by pouring the concrete in the cracks and then using the trowel to smooth the area out.
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5
Allow surface to dry overnight.
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6
Mix enough concrete to cover the entire patio slab. This can be a slightly thinner consistency than you used to fill the cracks, because it will be spread over the entire patio.
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7
Wet the patio to prevent the concrete from drying out too quickly.
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8
Apply the concrete over the patio surface by pulling concrete toward you with the squeegee, creating a smooth even surface.
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9
Allow material to begin to set. Using the broom, gently pull concrete along the surface to create texture. This will prevent people from slipping on the concrete if it is wet.
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10
Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24 hours.
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