How To Resurface A Badly Damaged Concrete Walkway

#EverythingAboutConcrete #TheConcreteUnderground #MikeDayConcrete
In this video I'm resurfacing a very badly damaged concrete sidewalk.
The concrete is spalled, pitted and salt damaged to a point where it may be better to just break it out and re-pour new. But I'm going to show you how you can fix concrete that's this damaged in case you need to fix or resurface your sidewalk, patio, or walkway.
The basic steps are as follows:
Step 1 0:01 Evaluate the concrete to come up with a plan
Step 2 0:10 Prep the concrete
Step 3 7:40 Patch the bad areas
Step 4 15:19 Resurface the concrete
These are the basic steps I use when I'm asked to repair a concrete walkway like this one.
There are some more little details in between these steps you'll see in the video but this formula will get it done in most cases.
I'm using Rapid Set Cement All and Mortar MIx for my repairs and resurfacing on this project. These materials are available to most of you through Home Depot.
To learn more about resurfacing concrete and concrete repairs, check out The Concrete Underground below for my concrete training academy that teaches you how to work with concrete.
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[@MikeDayConcrete]

Here's the UPDATE VIDEO over a year later: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4XHi2qgidKqr7s

[@MrPhatties]

Excellent follow up. I watched this video when you first upload it and my first thought was how well this would hold up vs a full repour.

[@rmvanda]

Thanks, I'm about to watch both!

[@jackwilliams7738]

If we get a Costco Fuel Station in Maine…. (Or another job) We will call you!

[@hamo6442]

Awe brother! That looks great! And at the same time I’m encouraged to give this a try… Thank you, and pray that your business is always abundantly profitable. - Harry

[@malikothman5381]

I repaired my walk way the same way but I also painted it but the paint peeled off ,,, any idea how to get the remaining paint off ?

[@oldguysurfer]

As a remodeling contractor for the past forty years I've had to do just about every trade on my projects at one time or another. Your stressing of the importance of complete, methodical preparation to a good finish product is spot on. I also really appreciate the way you go through each step to really help the diy-er or trade person understand the whole process. To be honest, I wish I'd had your video help twenty-five years ago - it would've saved me a lot of grief!

[@SamuelMartinez-ip1tb]

Ditto

[@edwinvonborstel3405]

I need somebody in Saginaw Mi.

[@Brunzy1970]

I've been licensed since 91 and I'm telling ya this product really could have made me some money. I assume you could use this as floor leveler for a big area of floor that's going to end up with hardwood floors. What do ya think?

[@Brunzy1970]

Lived there for 29 years Living in Edenville Township now on what used to be Sanford lake.

[@pauldormont4470]

Your videos are saving my bacon. They enable me to complete projects at my home that I would never have tackled without your instruction. For a retired, disabled vet, this is a huge help in maintaining both property value and keeping a roof over my head. Thanks!

[@jimfix6810]

After a winter you probably won’t be so happy

[@bruddaozzo]

@@jimfix6810 rofl

[@mja8433]

@@jimfix6810 disrespectful behavior

[@ronaldarif5290]

....or Halal beef

[@heatshield]

Did it survive the winter? I’m about to start a similar project this week.

[@E-Kat]

This is a tutorial in making a good quality instructional videos as well. No gimmicks, no music, just the information I was looking for plus list of tools used . Perfect video. Thank you so much.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Awesome, thanks

[@tedspens]

Ditto!

[@tacticalretreat8594]

After an hour of youtube videos on resurfacing its good to see really badly damaged concrete and no music but instruction and commentary had to hit the sub button

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Thank you!

[@LBC-PNW]

As a fairly handy woman I want to thank you for your complete thoroughness in this video. Hands down the best concrete resurfacing video I've seen 👍🏻

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Glad it was helpful!

[@scottoppelt]

I have 35 years in the rehab business, Best video I have seen before, how to and ending,, nice work

[@jennlizzy2019]

I have watched a dozen concrete repair video and today I found yours; GREAT job. The pace was slow enough to see all the detail, as is the quality of the videotography it's self. You were staight forward with the materials info and the best way to use them. I feel like I can successfully tackle some concrete issues around my 50 yr old home with this information. Thank you.

[@dalehammond1704]

This is the most thorough concrete repair video I've ever seen. If you guys were in this area I'd hire you in a minute. We're elderly and can't afford a total repair job on our small but super bad sidewalk. But I think we could handle this next summer due to your excellent step-by-step video. Thanks

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Wow, thanks!

[@craigbruce152]

Mike I can't thank you enough...my walkway was similar to the one in the video...so I went to Home Depot here in Canada and bought the materials you used and did everything you said in the Video.I AM BLOWN AWAY,LOOKS FANTASTIC.Thank you so much.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

That is awesome!

[@thelovacluka]

It boggles my mind how can anyone say they don't know how to do something while so much of info is here.. carpentry, concrete work etc.

[@MrBlaser51]

Never seen one of those "kneeling creepers" with built in knee pads. Too cool. So wish I had one throughout all my past building construction days. What a life-saver.

[@johnpamick2330]

Where did you get the creeper?

[@maddie4077]

Can't remember the name but they are awesome, around $250 but worth every penny.

[@richardpotenza3605]

This informed me why I prefer to hire a pro. You have the tools, know the materials and how fast or slow to go, make everything look great, and clean up the job so it looks great! Plus, you don’t get sidetracked and you finish in a short time. Nice job!

[@GregOrangeDoor]

It’s hard to find people to do this work. They just want to replace slab

[@markmiller3210]

@@GregOrangeDoor Everyone I have called has said exactly that "sorry we just replace what you got".

[@terrythomas790]

@@GregOrangeDoor Same as a mechanic. They just replace parts and if that dont work, replace the next thing they "think" it might be. Old timers, diagnosed a problem, lets say a carb., and dig into it and fix the bad component instead of replacing the whole carb. I know, they will say its quicker. Either way they screw you with labor costs

[@MontanaPDX]

I'm thinking it is going to fail and be a waste of money. Worked on a long job and smaller patches not tied in fall off.

[@darkbeach72]

This is so soothing to watch it makes me want to quit my damn desk job that's killing me slowly and get out and use my hands.

[@fivespeed3026]

I worked in hospital administration for years and hated every day of it. Now I mow lawns and make considerably more money. It’s hard work but I’m not miserable anymore.

[@greenearthblueskies8556]

What u waiting for?

[@craigzilla100]

I feel the same way..

[@Doogsa-dl8sc]

Do it. I forced to years ago and my health improved as a result. Good luck to you.

[@rocket5557]

You guys are true professional tradesmen. Unfortunately people like you guys are for the most part a thing of the past. Seems like nowadays everyone is a pretender from the 3rd world with zero standards. I’ve been so dissatisfied in the past I just do everything myself. I’d hire you guys in a heartbeat! True professionals. It’s actually a joy to watch you guys work.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Thank you

[@lornathorpe1632]

I hate it that you had to throw in the "third world" bs. Where a person is from has nothing to do with it. But I feel your pain in finding people who know what they're doing and do a good job.

[@ghostup101]

@@lornathorpe1632 Then name another country that is a third world that has the build quality and pride behind their work like professionals in the US. Stop getting triggered over trivial BS. Everyone else understood what he meant.

[@lornathorpe1632]

@@ghostup101 Would be a waste of time trying to educate. Your accident of birth in the US apparently is all you need to think you are superior to other humans and have a lock on quality work and pride. History, education and travel might be something to look into before you discount the rest of the world.

[@gregcale5388]

Got to give you props for PPE and dust mitigation. I've seen commercial and highway jobs not caring about their guys as much.

[@shannonurban7498]

Thank for doing a voice over explanation. I've come across a LOT of videos with 10 minutes of talking and then....nothing while the work is being done. Great help!

[@MikeDayConcrete]

You're very welcome!

[@hogsandsooners]

I really appreciate the voice-over narration as it is easy to understand and eliminates the need for on-screen editing due to misspeak. Really easy to understand information from a true master of the trade and not just a glorified do-it-yourselfer. I have a sidewalk and driveway in need of some crack repair and resurfacing, so this information will be invaluable. Thank you.

[@bilmoe5856]

I always use bonding adhesive both in the mix and on the surface instead of just water. Both of these materials hold up great. If you find this isn't working for you, chances are you didn't prep enough. I've got patches in high salt areas that are 10+ years old.

[@psidvicious]

For anyone who thinks that ‘full-blown’ concrete finishing may be a little more than they can handle, just know that contractors will pay a good patch-man, that knows what he’s doing, VERY good money. As a concrete contractor, I was constantly in search of good patch men, bcz even in new construction, there is always a need for ‘patch work’. The last time I counted, there were probably around a million different ‘patch’ products out there and they can be quite expensive. Sometimes more than $20+ for a little 5lb bag! It was surprising to see that you’re finding success with some of these relatively inexpensive products. It would be great if you could revisit this job in a year or so to see how well this holds up.

[@bdmenne]

An update would be nice

[@Michael-st1hl]

This is THE video I was looking for! A professional guide step by step process that takes viewers all the way through the entire process. Now I know exactly what to buy and know in detail how to resurface my patios. Thank you for making this wonderful video.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Glad it was helpful!

[@libertarian1637]

I like CementAll for these types of repairs and can agree SetControl can be a must, especially as temperatures increase. I like pressure washing as a preparation as it cleans better than just a hose. I also use CementAll as a resurfacer with the aid of a bonding agent, usually 2 thinned coats sprayed on the concrete and some additive in the mix as well; I also add a FlowControl pack or 2 per bag of CementAll plus 1/2 to 1 pack of SetControl per bag. Along with 3-4 qts of water and a qt of bonding agent in the mix it’s able to be trowel or squeegee applied. In using this method for over 2 decades I’ve never had issues and it holds up well to NY freeze/thaw as CementAll is around 9,000 PSI. RapidSet Mortar mix is around 6,500 PSI and is supposed to be a minimum of 1/2” thick whereas CementAll can be used down to a feather edge. I also like a float finish, either with a hard/soft rubber or foam float, over a broom finish. Other than using the MortarMix I like the work. I like CementAll over other resurfacing products as even with a bonding agent it is so much cheaper than other resurfacer, it’s a lot stronger and tighter than other resurfacers, and it just seams to hold up better. As a side not both CementAll and MortarMix have sand in them, the CementAll sand is greyer and much finer than the coarse and more brown sand of the MortarMix, which is one of the main reasons along with cement percentage and additives to the difference in strength, as well as the difference in application thickness recommendations, CementAll feather to 4”, MortarMix 1/2”-6”.

[@jamie-r2034]

I know nothing about this but is it possible to make a 1:1 ratio of cementall and mortar mix and just put it on mixed together? It's a serious question - just looking to find the best method to resurface my walkways (I live in PA & winters kill my walkways)

[@libertarian1637]

@@jamie-r2034: You can mix them together but won’t be gaining much. Both are basically hydronic cement and c]sand mixes with CementAll having fiber sand do it can go down to a feathered edge; the mortar mix is courser sand and along with other ingredients isn’t as strung and isn’t supposed to go as thin, only 1/2”. CementAll May be pricy but it’s the right product; if you have deeper spots fill them first with the mortar if need be. If price is the biggest point skip the rapid sets and just get Portland Cement and sand along with lime for flexibility and just mix things old school; it won’t set as fast or gain the same PSI but it will be as cheap as you can be.

[@jamie-r2034]

​@@libertarian1637 i appreciate it! I want to do it right without having to rip out our sidewalk. I already ordered the Rapid Set & mortar mix ($45 for both). We're selling our house in the next year or two, so hoping it last until we're out of there! Plus it will hopefully still look good for the next owners. Should I also purchase an adhesive promoter for it as well or will everything set in place fine without an adhesive promoter?

[@libertarian1637]

@@jamie-r2034: The bonding agent is more than enough, especially when sprayed down in 2-3 coats of the 2:1 mix. Temperature plays a big role in set time of the RapidSet products so I’d consider the SetControl to buy more time, if needed, as well as the FlowControl which can aid in thinning the mix without adding more water. I like to max water at 4 Qt./Bag instead of the 5 Qt./Bag max as it maintains a little more strength. You can make it a bit thicker and trowel set any deep spots, then mix it thin and resurface it with a squeegee, just make sure to brush it or float it before it sets as otherwise a squeegee finish can be quite slick in the rain/snow.

[@jamie-r2034]

@@libertarian1637 thank you - i always wanted to learn to do any type of concrete work. I plan on working on getting things prepped this week and take the day this Saturday to start the concrete work

[@russellf1339]

Excellent video! So rare to see concise but thorough content these days, thanks for sharing 👍

[@crucifyrobinhood]

2:14 Dragging the hammerhead gives an audible sound change going from sound concrete to unsound concrete. We called it Slab Sonar on my crews.

[@omarpatino4230]

Good tip, kind of like knowing exactly when the concrete is about to crack when you’re hitting it with a smaller demo hammer because it changes tone to a deeper note

[@markc7955]

I do that on dry walls. Il steal the sonar name.

[@bobbypatton4903]

I do that placing expansion bolts for climbing. I call it "sounding the rock"

[@emdad506]

Thank you Mike. Folks, this is what a professional job looks like! From the care taken on the clients property, to the protection, to the knowledge of available material to the installation. Top to bottom great job professionally done.

[@barbarawright1324]

Mike I just stumbled across your videos. Thank you so much for making concrete repairs so simple to understand. You let us know the old way is still a very good way to make it work.

[@Dr.Meola1980]

Great job guys looks good. I own a medium-sized excavating company and do a lot of masonry work. What I find that works really well to speed up a concrete repair job like that. Is when I start spreading the resurfacing material. I start off by using a 24 or 36 in black rubber squeegee. Give it a shot you might like it you did a good job without it anyways.

[@tomcoryell]

Great idea. I think that would make leveling/blending easier.

[@flat6fever680]

Fabulous outcome! You boys have the light touch on that broom too!

[@MrHhand054]

My first time doing a concrete resurface and I've searching KZbin for instructions. This video is by far the most informative. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@healsinger]

This is one of the best and informative videos on resurfacing concrete that I've seen. I've viewed quite a few over the years. Thank you for providing so many details on the process as the job is being done. Drying time, type of product, wet the old surface but not too wet etc...important nuances that come with experience. This process can stave off a very expensive project for a few years when there are other priorities.

[@downhilltwofour0082]

I have a lot of respect for men those who work in Construction. The concrete workers are the most dedicated of them all!

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Thank you!

[@davejames2015]

Ya me to especially for the money they get paid

[@ivorygilyard2243]

You guys did a great job, the space looks super. Thanks for explaining everything. The video was very helpful.

[@alfredo9445]

You don't know how much I needed to watch your presentation. It was exactly what I needed to fix a very similar situation that I have. I'm selling a property, but I didn't want to replace something that was 30% damaged. Thank you again . !!!

[@tuanische]

I have been searching for a couple of years for this type of repair. This is a great breakdown. Even though my area is about 10x I am much more hopeful that it could be done.

[@kencade6544]

Great video! I've done a lot of sculpture with motar mix and fibreglass, and you can apply it pretty thick and feather it put nicely. Seeing your process here is a big help when it comes to fixing an old walkway I've been meaning to get at. Thanks for posting! 👍👍

[@erinmcquade4715]

The affordability of the product, preparation details explained clearly, and demonstrating that full demolition and repour was not necessary! Beautiful! Teaching people how to maintain weathered surfaces is so environmentally friendly. Good teaching tools!

[@froglobster]

Yeah for sure. It was so clear and I don’t want anyone jackhammering around my house when I can diy like this.

[@1three7]

Found this because I'm wondering if I can fix my driveway myself. But, this video is fun to watch even if I wasn't trying to DIY. It's just enjoyable watching people who are experienced doing solid work like this and explaining how and why they do it.

[@danielhayes479]

Great work and great video. A less scrupulous contractor would have told the homeowner there was no other option other than to tear it all out and repour it. At a much higher price. You show how skill and work can repair something that is damaged, and save the homeowner money in the process.

[@MontanaPDX]

I'm not a contractor but i do concrete and grout and i don't think this will last. He can't even get small areas flat with a trowel, that tells me he is self taught with little actual concrete experience. Never hire someone without a garantee and insurance.

[@kdiamond3623]

Wow! I am blown away by the quality of work you guys do. Thank you for sharing. On a different note you must have the toughest knees on planet earth. I’d have to call 911 to stand back up after doing that!

[@JackNSally_remix]

This made me LITERALLY lol

[@DANG19844]

Thanks Mike this video was very helpful, I had a job the other day that looked just like this and passed on it. After this video I won't be losing those jobs again. I appreciate you.

[@jotorobomb8160]

I'm very impressed at your standards for protecting your lungs from silica. So many people thing that because it's out of a commercial job they can get rid of all the safety gear.

[@anthonyalvarez4605]

I really liked watching you repair this walkway. The steps you used was easy to understand and the job looked great after you were done. Thanks for taking out the fear of attempting a repair like this.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Glad it was helpful!

[@RonKris]

I'm always impressed by the work you do. True professionals.

[@boydmerriman]

I'm surprised you don't use a pressure washer to clean the walk as it would knock out any loose items a lot better and do a deeper clean. At first, I didn't know you can use thin material like that and it would hold. Thanks for the video!

[@davidlarson2534]

This video is timely. I have a section of driveway extension that was ground down too low. This is the best solution where I thought I had none. Excellent video. I can’t now fix an embarrassing mistake.

[@lostintime8651]

I like how Lewis finally picked up the pace. Hurry up let's get this done. No slacking. I guess his morning coffee finally kicked in.

[@aaronfagerstrom34]

This is good work. I've found using a masonry bonding agent will increase the longevity of a temporary repair like this. I personally would never finish concrete with mortar.

[@E-Kat]

Would you finish concrete with concrete ?

[@OrangeSpeedTV]

I built all the counters in my house with rapid set mortar mix then polished them. Been over a year now and they’ve held up great. Good stuff

[@pedromeza9458]

I'm glad I found your team video, others are so ambiguous, this refinishing class is exactly what I was looking for. Pouring sidewalks and patios is not quite the same as working with fast setting materials, great help guys thanks, keep up the great work 👍

[@beretaniastreet6384]

This is really great stuff. Very informative and definitely helps a DIY person do a good job. I do some of my own work, but watching this, I’d probably just hire you or someone like you to do this...no way I’d be able to do this in a day.

[@mmercier0921]

When I worked for a small masonry company there was a lot more yelling, screaming and threatening.

[@calforman]

Sounds like you had a Discipline, Problem, of doing lousy work.

[@da324]

@@calforman No, that's just a normal day on a masonry crew.

[@lornathorpe1632]

@@da324 Same when I am working by myself. Oh, the language!!!!

[@klubstompers]

This isn't masonry. If it was someone would have gotten a brick to the dome.

[@daveh4925]

My team and I sing Katy Perry Hits in same order everyday - always raises a few eyebrows but we like it

[@GrouseHiker]

Good work! I would love to see a revisit video to check on condition after winter.

[@w96725]

These fella's are experts with a trial! Funney how people can be as particular if not even more so about a concrete drives or sidewalk than their kitchen floor!

[@EmeldaSanchez-fp3dh]

I will be doing this tomorrow ,Ive watched lots of videos and this is the best explained video yet , your process is plain and simple thank you ,I have about the same size to do ,it'll be my first time , hopefully I can do a decent job,

[@Danny-ju2ip]

Great job . Gonna tackle my steps and walkway after the snow melts and warms up. NY winters

[@vickiehadd4324]

I was thinking the same thing. Michigan winters

[@manualidadesvegajose9514]

Wow! It looks like i need to do the same to the front of my house. Thanks for the info. By the way Nice Job, i hope my will look as beatiful as yours. Greetings from Illinois

[@caleighross79]

After complete frustration trying to hire people to do these small jobs, I’d like to thank you for this thorough video!!! I think we can handle this on our own 😊

[@manofthetuba6857]

Everything was nice and clear. I got to repair my moms patio, but i didnt want to hire anyone who going to charge me both kidneys. This helps out a lot.

[@jaac12000]

Great video! Awesome explanations of every aspect of the job! It's also VERY educational for the homeowner to really know what is available from a skilled craftsman. Subscribed!

[@godbluffvdgg]

Nice job..I've been doing concrete repairs; interior and exterior for almost 30 years. The Chemistry for the surface coatings has really improved and the price points are super low too...I used to have to get Ardex with special additives and primers...Now, you just add water...Much easier than breaking it out though...:)

[@lowridingtrucks88]

How long will an overlay last?

[@noneyadamnbusiness6891]

it will start breaking up after the first few winters. repair jobs like this last 2 maybe 3 years tops before you start seeing significant break up again. the concrete won't move as 1 due to being different compositions. The extra additives in the top layer will help it hold for a little but in the end it is far better having the concrete being all the same mix and set. odds are the home owner was told it was better to replace the section but they attempted to brow beat them down too low or simply wouldn't pay that much and cheaped out.

[@godbluffvdgg]

@@noneyadamnbusiness6891 It's always about money...But, if the surface is prepped correctly, you'll get a bit more time...But, few people do a proper prep.

[@sharartimunda]

@@noneyadamnbusiness6891 surprised no one in the comments knows this

[@THE-APEX]

Great job Mike. Try an 8” concrete scarifier from your local sunbelt rentals, 1\8” per pass removed. Five minutes and your guy is still fresh.

[@oldschool6558]

Thank you for a great, educational video for homeowners. And not only that, your video was very calming and relaxing to watch.

[@paulerickson3089]

Looks beautiful. A big improvement.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Thanks!

[@johnfahey7215]

When I stand up after crouching for a while, my right knee sounds like a bowl of rice krispies. GET KNEE PADS MIKE!!😅

[@chicassoproductions8527]

KZbin search: Kneesovertoesguy to get rid of the bowl of rice krispies sounds in your knees. But, yes, knee pads would assist.

[@lornathorpe1632]

I liked the kneepad seat combo on wheels that was used in the beginning. Looked like a really good knee saver.

[@bobbypatton4903]

Kneepads fucking blow dude

[@johnfahey7215]

@@bobbypatton4903 after 40 yrs in construction, I’m sorry I used to say that also!

[@dollyhadbraces9361]

@@johnfahey7215 word

[@MicahJohns]

Incredible video! Thanks for making it. Gonna help me out on my driveway.

[@jpattoncook]

Excellent! Really well presented, complete, clear, concise. Well worth watching. Looking for more from you.

[@meganrenaeart]

Thank you for sharing this! We own a rowhome in Philly and our sidewalks are super old and cracked. We're paying for so much just repairing a hundred year old home, that we're thinking we'll redo the sidewalks ourselves. I was worried we'd have to bust out the slab, which would be tough with all of the sewer lines!

[@Papalegba22]

Your sewer lines are well below frost line. Meaning they are much lower than the 6 inch sidewalk depth.

[@AlbertGabri]

I used the Rapid Set mortar mix to build an outdoor kitchen countertop and it turned out great. I love the product and how you can use it for different things.

[@Jerrylineberger]

Thank you so much! I feel prepared to repair my garage in Wisconsin. Lots of salt damage. Great narration!

[@jonathannoll7071]

Thank you Mr. Day. This video saved me a bunch of money before i sold my home.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Glad it helped

[@rheubengreen8612]

Thanks for taking the time to make this video.

[@williampeters6004]

I absolutely love love love love love love love how you're explaining and going through the process. You are the greatest!! Are you anywhere near Massachusetts

[@rickyp9322]

I like Mike's voice too. Soo soothing and making a hard job seems easy! ☺

[@topiab8419]

Best explanation I've heard. I would totally use and recommend you. GREAT JOB.👍👍

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Thank you so much!!

[@chriswillis1534]

Great informative video, especially for ppl starting out that, financially, may not be able to afford a professional like yourself, thank you for your craftsmanship, and knowledge

[@brandonkanatzar3575]

Exactly what I was looking for. I'm going to try to repair my slab myself.

[@bradhill4590]

You have no idea how bad I needed this video Mike! Thanks! I had a hard rain visit a broomed slab about an hour after we left. I'm gonna have to use this stuff because some of the top come off.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Brad, I like the Ardex CD Fine for a new broomed slab like that. It's really good and easy to use. Trowels on very similar and is very fine with no aggregate in it.

[@alan6832]

@@MikeDayConcrete Like most beginners, I don't have most of these tools and don't really want to buy them, though I can use an angle grinder for mechanics stuff, so maybe I will buy that. The home owner has an electric pressure washer that maybe I can use up real close, that and maybe a wire brush like painters use. My damage is less surface, more through holes, wide cracks, and edge crumbling, though I can live with the edges for the time being unless it is just as easy to do it all at once; which it isn't because the edges require a mold where the hole and crack don't.

[@invictusbp1prop143]

@@alan6832 If you have edges eroded away by the rain and holes in the concrete where the rain beat its way into the soft mud, much deeper than what’s shown in the video, you may need to use another product first to fill the deep voids prior to skimming it with the Ardex. Most products are only good for up to a certain thickness. I always used Ardex or Shep-Patch (Sheplers house brand) for just skimming the finish. If there was a lot of erosion from a heavy rain on really green concrete, you can beat the surface down with a rotary hammer and just use grout to top off 1” + and it’ll look pretty much the same as it would have if it wasn’t damaged. (Oh, not grout like tike grout, grout like concrete with no aggregate, just course sand. Don’t pour it more than a couple inches thick tho, without aggregate it’ll break up in you.). Concrete needs to be still green for it to stay put tho. If the surface is dusting, you’ll want to seal it first because anything you put on a weak surface us going to slough off. I don’t know their current product names, it’s been a while since I got out of the business. I would recommend using a bonding agent (aka milk) on the surface before putting anything on it. Prep is everything. Make sure you have no loose material on the surface and it totally clean. Should be able to apply a couple layers and broom finish the last coat.

[@danielkarcher9574]

That turned out really great. Seems like a lot of work. Almost as much work as just replacing it but much cheaper I'm sure.👍

[@kalumw3983]

Labour often costs more than material. Also overlays do not last.. Maybe on a sidewalk without freeze / thaw cycles.

[@DennisMathias]

I can't believe this is cheaper or better than removing the old and pouring new.

[@Tactical_Manatee]

I had the same thought.

[@kasiehill7937]

I think this is fantastic and you’re such a good teacher! I really appreciate your generosity in letting us lay people know how to do this. What happens if you do get it too thick? Will it be more susceptible to cracking? Again, thank you!

[@hosseinparishani9983]

This is an excellent job, but just out of curiosity, how many East Coast sort of winters this is going to last before falling apart? Anybody who has gone through the real repair please. Thanks.

[@damodaraomalley3974]

Jack hammer and two cubes of new concrete poured. Fineshed.

[@brianfoster7064]

Except the owner specifically stated repair not demolish and replace.

[@jomanci]

Thank you for informing me on a consumer level.

[@petriepretorius4085]

thank you kindly for this video, it showed me a lot how to prepare the floor for my art studio workshop, and its great info you guys give...thanks for sharing your skills...

[@johnfahey7215]

right after I posted that, you showed up with pads on.😀

[@aj12271]

Looks very similar to self leveling concrete. Can that be used as well?

[@grottonisred6541]

Not just time and labour.....a large element of skill was also used...great work guys🇬🇧

[@beentheredonethatoriginals5673]

Fine work, I did not realize this thin of a coat was possible. It seems like it wouldn't last long. Obviously you wouldn't be doing it if that were the case. You've given me hope for my crappy old driveway, I'll look at it in a new light and probably give this product a try. Thanks for a great video, sharp and well explained. Subscribed!

[@steverollins7904]

Hey Mike, how deep can you pour that product? I have a few spots that are about 1 inch to maybe 1 1/2 inches.

[@sarahmiles9549]

Could you do this on a driveway that’s being driven on regularly or would It crack away

[@saudy1000]

New on you channel. Wow the best video I've seen in a long time. greeting from Boston Mass.

[@chrisashby7276]

Thanks man! I'm gonna give it a whirl right now. Very thorough instructions. Much appreciated

[@nonyabuisness]

If you epoxy injected those big cracks you might have been ok. They will come back soon. We specialize in concrete resurfacing. Been in business since 97.... Also adding micro fiber to your overlay will help a ton.

[@mattharder6003]

Hi Mike, Was wondering why you didn’t use the Rapid Set “New Crete”? I’ve seen you use it around a pool in a video you did awhile ago. I’ve used all the Rapid set products so I’m pretty familiar with how they work and I’ve never thought to use the Mortar Mix as a resurfacer. I was thinking the Mortar Mix needs to go on fairly thick and wouldn’t really be used as the finish coat on like a sidewalk or patio. I’ve used it as stucco on the side of a foundation and for structural repairs on walls. The New Crete might as be a little easier to work with as it doesn’t dry so fast to give yourself a little more working time and can be feathered to about 0.. It’s hard to see in the video but how does it turn out when you start and stop the broom finish in the middle of the surface as your working down the sidewalk? On another note do you know why Rapid Set makes Cement All dry out so white? I don’t know why they wouldn’t make it dry out in more of a grey like normal concrete? It’s frustrating because you pretty much have to go over it with a resurfacer or paint to make it a normal color...

[@MikeDayConcrete]

It's what we had locally at the time to use and I knew I was painting over it with the Con-Flex to seal it with. Broom marks all blended in good. I took a rubbing stone to it and then cleaned it good before painting it. Turned out very nice. Not sure about the color on the Cement All. You can add a bit of charcoal integral concrete color to darken it though.

[@montytanner966]

The color difference is just a different cementitious material. White and gray are most common that I have seen

[@tedspens]

@@montytanner966 I've seen some concrete has a green hue and some a brown hue. I don't know which brands, but I've noticed it. Enough so that I wouldn't want to switch products mid-pour.

[@DrTucsonJim]

I have some 30 year old concrete on my back patio that is just starting to degrade in a few isolated spots. Was going to call someone but think I will try to do it myself now. Thank you!

[@terrymoser2028]

Beautiful job! You make it look easy. Tools and proper preparation are the key to any job. You are a Professional!

[@pensive69]

The large sand or aggregate in their Mortar Mix is a great match for non skid areas...I wish they offered a cement grey but the standard is fine for most jobs.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

I agree, it would be nice to have the grey option.

[@duradim1]

My experience with these type of products is they simply don't hold up.

[@rapid13]

Patchcrete. Greatest thing since sliced bread. Feather edge to 1/2” with no aggregate. It’s practically magic. I’ve been selling it for 20 years and can’t recommend it highly enough. It comes with a bag component and liquid component.

[@memyselfandi3925]

I agree. Its just a temporary bandaid

[@losttribe3001]

Concrete just doesn’t hold up period. It cracks and falls apart. These are “temporary” and cost-effective methods to buy time. Want something that holds up? Build your sidewalk out of titanium…

[@tsmith3286]

@@losttribe3001 Coincidently I just laid a titanium sidewalk. So far it's held up good.

[@willliam1343]

Prepare correctly and it will. Maybe your experience is the problem? 🤫

[@carlripley1871]

I happened upon your videos and was like this guy knows his stuff but probably just another guy in a state with great weather but then after more videos I realized you are a mainah as well! Unfortunately too far south to help me, but with your videos I am gaining confidence in repairing myself

[@lilylaija6869]

Looks great. I need to do this on my walkway also

[@benjaminreinhardt259]

How long do you expect that repair to last?

[@calforman]

Great QUESTION ?????

[@maxkomarov9439]

Get Luke some knee pads. Great video Thnks for taking the time to make it.

[@MikeDayConcrete]

Haha, I know. He's an animal. Got to save the knees though.

[@mythoughts1................1]

You are a true professional and, thank you for all of your knowledge and help with the BEST information available. We all appreciate you and YOUR VIDEOS!!! A++.