How to make a thin concrete repair

Clean the surface of the damaged area by removing any dirt, oil, or grease, or unsound or flaking concrete.

The first step in a successful thin concrete repair is proper surface preparation. A solid, clean surface is necessary so that the repair material can permanently bond to the damaged area. When working with cement-based products always wear eye protection and gloves.

Clean the surface of the damaged area by removing any dirt, oil, or grease, or unsound or flaking concrete prior to application of repair material. Using a concrete and asphalt cleaner, scrub and clean the surface of the area to be repaired with a stiff bristle brush. Thoroughly rinse the repair area after cleaning.

Clean the surface of the area to be repaired with a stiff bristle brush.

For a thin concrete repair

Make thin concrete repairs to small areas with a chipped or damaged surface using a product such as Quikrete Vinyl Concrete Patcher. It can be applied from 1/4 inch down to a feather edge.

Step 1

Mix the concrete patcher by adding about 10 ounces of water per 5 pounds of material, pouring the dry mix into the water. (The more water that is added during the mixing process, the weaker the bond strength and compressive strength will be.) Mix the concrete patcher for 3 to 5 minutes using a margin trowel. After a lump-free consistency is achieved, allow the mix to sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Prior to applying, stir the material once more; additional water can be added in small amounts to achieve a putty consistency. Dampen the repair area with enough water to saturate the surface. Remove any standing water. (Never add water after the material has begun to set.)

Apply the patcher in layers using a margin trowel. The first layer should be pressed into the repair area using firm trowel pressure.

Step 3

Apply the patcher in layers using a margin trowel. The first layer should be pressed into the repair area using firm trowel pressure. Smooth the surface of the patch so that it is level with the surrounding concrete. Avoid adding water to the surface of the patch. Protect the repair area from foot traffic for 24 hours and from vehicle traffic for at least 3 days.

For small non-structural repair

For non-structural, small aesthetic concrete repairs use a product such as QUIKRETE Concrete Patching Compound. It’s a pre-mixed, ready to use acrylic latex formula that blends with the color and texture of the surrounding concrete. It should only be applied when temperatures are between 50 and 90 degrees F.

For patches or cracks greater than ¼-inch thick, the compound should be applied in multiple layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.

For patches or cracks greater than ¼-inch thick, the compound should be applied in multiple layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.

Step 1

Stir the concrete patching compound using a margin trowel or putty knife before applying it to a clean dry surface.

Step 2

Spread and texture the concrete patch to match the surrounding concrete. For patches or cracks greater than ¼-inch thick, the compound should be applied in multiple layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. For a smooth finish, wet the trowel. The patch will begin to form a skin in 20 to 40 minutes and will harden completely in 1 to 2 hours, depending on the temperature, humidity and patch job

Watch the video here.

What you’ll need for a concrete repair

• Vinyl concrete patch or concrete patching compound
• Concrete and asphalt cleaner
• Chisel and hammer
• Wire brush
• Margin trowel
• Scrub brush
• Measuring pail
• Gloves and safety glasses