How to Repave a Cement Walkway

A damaged cement walkway is both unsightly and dangerous.

Cracked and damaged cement walkways are not only unsightly, they can be dangerous. Repairing a walkway is not difficult and should not take you too long -- although you will need to allow the area to dry for a couple of days before walking on it. With this in mind, if possible you should carry out this repair in summer when the weather is warm and there is less chance of rain.

Things You'll Need

• Cement
• Cement sealer
• Masonry chisel
• Hammer
• Trowel
• Bucket
• Wire brush

Instructions

1. Remove the damaged cement by chiseling away any that is loose. When this has been removed, use the wire brush to loosen any rough edges and brush away the debris.

2. Pour water over the crack to saturate the cement surrounding the area that you are going to repair. This saturation should prevent the old cement absorbing the water from the new compound which would weaken the joint. Make sure that all standing water has drained away before applying any compound.

3. Mix the cement compound according to the instructions on the packet and apply a thin layer of the mixture to the damaged area. This should be done before the cement dries so that it helps to form a strong bond.

4. Fill the damaged area with the cement compound and use your trowel to smooth the surface of the cement, making sure that it is level with the surrounding area. Loosely cover the area with a plastic sheet and allow to dry for a couple of days.

5. Apply a cement sealant to the area that has been repaired and allow this to dry for at least a day before walking on it.

References

• Concrete network: How to repair cracks