Sidewalk Repair Instructions
Is a broken or chipped sidewalk ruining the landscaping around your home? If you are a homeowner, you will at some point likely find your sidewalk in need of repair. You can easily fix the sidewalk on your own, although it can require some time and may require you to use tools with which you are unfamiliar. It is important to first determine if the damage is small and localized or whether it would be more efficient to remove the entire damaged slab of concrete and pour new concrete. If the damage is just in a localized area, use the following instructions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Masonry blade
- Concrete patch
- Steel brush
- Garden hose with spray nozzle
- Putty knife
- Steel trowel
- Broom
- Sponge
- Cloth
Instructions
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Wait for the ideal weather conditions. The temperature should be between 50 and 80 degrees F. If the temperature is lower it will lengthen the time it takes the concrete to set, and freezing temperatures will ruin the concrete. In temperatures over 80 degrees F, the concrete will harden too quickly, possibly before you have time to smooth it. If you have to repair the concrete during the hotter months, it is best to make the repairs in the early morning when the weather is coolest, and preferably in the shade.
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Saw around the outside of the damaged area using a masonry blade, cutting at least 3/8-inches deep. Set the blade at a 5-degree angle to ensure that the cut is wider at the top than the bottom and that it will lock in the patch.
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Remove loose material or debris from the sidewalk with a steel brush and rinse the sidewalk with water, using a sponge or cloth to soak up any remaining puddles. Leave the concrete damp.
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Mix the concrete patch according to the instructions on the product. Apply to the broken or cracked areas with a putty knife. Be aware that if you apply the patch thicker than 2 inches, its natural shrinkage could cause it to break the bond with the old concrete.
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Use a sponge to create the roughened texture of the old concrete when the concrete has firmed to the point that it resembles the firmness of pressing on a grapefruit. If you're looking for a smooth surface use a steel trowel. For a grooved surface, running a broom over the wet concrete will allow you to achieve that effect.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not wait long after mixing the vinyl concrete before applying it to the sidewalk, as the mixture becomes stickier and difficult to smooth over time.
You can find the concrete patch at most hardware or home improvement stores.
Wear protective gloves to protect your hands from the vinyl concrete.
References
- Photo Credit sidewalk image by Dave from Fotolia.com
