How to Mortar Sidewalks
A concrete sidewalk may crack after being exposed to the elements for an extended period of time. Freezing cold temperatures can cause cement to shrink slightly. This isn't a big problem until the weather warms up again, at which point the concrete stretches, an adjustment that can lead to large cracks in the surface. These cracks can be filled with a latex blend mortar to prevent further damage. The latex also allows the cement to stretch naturally due to temperature changes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Pour the latex modified thinset powder into your bucket.
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2
Slowly add water to the bucket while mixing with your margin trowel. The mixture will begin to turn to mud. Stop adding water when you can scoop the mortar onto your trowel and turn it upside down with the mud falling off. This texture is sometimes described as similar to peanut butter.
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3
Sweep out the crack in the sidewalk with a broom. All loose gravel and dirt needs to be removed.
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4
Scoop out some mortar with your trowel and place it on top of the crack.
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5
Place the edge of your trowel on the crack while holding the tool at a sharp angle to the ground. Drage the mortar into the crack.
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6
Repeat Steps 4 and 5 until you have filled the crack with mortar. Make one final drag pass with the margin trowel along the entire crack, scooping up any excess mortar. Leave the mortar to dry for 24 hours.
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Tips & Warnings
Wash your tools off with water immediately after working with thinset.
References
- Photo Credit Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
