Proper planning is essential for the successful repair of concrete. Proper preparation of the area that needs to be restored is the most important part of a successful outcome. When completing concrete restoration be sure that you change any tapered edges and moisten the cracked part of the concrete. The most common form of concrete restoration is repairing a crack or hole in a driveway or sidewalk.

Holes will often have tapered sides which can make the patch less durable. With tapered edges you will get a thin layer of patch that will peel away over time. Often it is best to use a chisel or saw with a masonry blade to improve these edges prior to patching. You do not want any areas where the patch will be too thin. Read and follow the directions for your patching compound carefully. Usually you will want a consistency similar to thick gravy.

You should mix only as much compound as can be used within twenty minutes. If you are using water based compound without a bonding agent you will need to get the surface wet before applying the patching compound. When using a bonding compound carefully read those directions as well.

With a very deep hole consider adding reinforcing steel into the hole. This will help your patch stay in place. The patch should cover the steel pieces by at least half an inch. Finish your patched area using a finishing tool. Give the patch some time to harden before you finish it. The area should then be covered with plastic and use rocks or other heavy items to keep the area covered for 3 days. Patching compound should not dry too fast so it is better to avoid hot and sunny days to make repairs. The ideal weather for concrete repairs is damp and cloudy weather. Avoid making repairs during freezing temperatures.

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