How to Resurface Damaged Concrete

Concrete holds up very well to extreme temperatures, traffic and the occasional bump. However, the surface can become chipped and pitted, leaving small and large holes, which looks unpleasant. Successfully resurfacing damaged concrete depends entirely on bonding the new concrete with the old. To do this, the new concrete needs surface area to adhere to. If done properly, once dried, you will not be able to tell where the old concrete ends and the new concrete begins.

Chisel
Hammer drill
1/2-inch drill bit
Hammer
4-inch rebar pieces
Expansion anchors
Lag screws
Wrench
Bonding agent
Paintbrush
Patching cement
Water
Bucket
Trowel
Rubber float
Plastic

Instructions

- 1
  Use a chisel to remove loose concrete from around the broken area. Drill three holes, each one approximately 2 inches deep, into the broken area using a hammer drill fitted with a 1/2-inch drill bit. Spread these holes evenly over the area of the chipped concrete.
- 2
  Hammer one 4-inch long piece of rebar into each of the holes. Instead of rebar, you can also use an expansion anchor and a lag screw. Tighten the screw with a wrench.
- 3
  Paint a thin layer of bonding agent onto the old concrete using a paintbrush. Allow the agent to dry for a few minutes.
- 4
  Mix patching cement and water in a small bucket. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the patching cement when mixing.
- 5
  Place the mixed concrete into the chipped area with a trowel. Use plenty of force to ensure that the new concrete is tight against the surface of the old concrete. Apply a little at a time to fill in the hole in layers.
- 6
  Gently rub the surface of the new concrete with a damp, rubber float. This will smooth the surface of the new concrete and blend the new concrete into the old concrete.
- 7
  Cover the patched area with plastic. Wait three days before removing the plastic and walking on the patched area.

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