How to Resurface an Existing Concrete Cement Walkway

Concrete cement walkways can often become worn down with cracks and broken pieces through natural disasters, accidents or just wear and tear. However, rather than tearing down the walkway completely, resurfacing existing concrete walkways is an economical solution to a battered entrance. It may take a bit of elbow grease and sweat, but the hard work can increase the beauty and value of any home for years to come.

Things You'll Need

• Concrete resurfacer
• Putty knife
• Concrete repair caulk
• Caulking gun
• Duct tape
• Concrete mix
• Drill motor
• Heavy-duty mixing paddle
• Bucket
• Flat steel trowel
• Medium-bristle push broom

Instructions

1. Fill in any cracks or gaps up to 1/8-inch wide with concrete resurfacer. Mix accordingly to manufacturer's directions and apply with a putty knife. For larger cracks up to 1/2-inch wide, use concrete repair caulk. Place the caulk into a caulking gun and squeeze it into any gaps. Then smooth it out with a putty knife.

2. Mask up slab joints that are with duct tape to allow the concrete to expand while drying and control cracking.

3. Mix the concrete following the manufacturer's directions. For larger batches, it is a good idea to use a drill motor and a heavy-duty mixing paddle to mix the concrete.

4. Spread out the concrete mix onto the walkway and smooth it out using a flat steel trowel. Press down hard to ensure even and thorough coating.

5. Texture the concrete using a medium-bristle push broom onto the walkway gently across the wet concrete. This will also create a slip-resistant surface.

6. Finish up by pulling out the duct tape immediately after texturing the concrete. Let the surface dry for a full 24 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• To spread out concrete mix onto a larger area, use a long-handled squeegee rather than a trowel.

References

• This Old House: How to Renew Concrete Surfaces