How do I redo a patio that has been cemented for years but is cracked and has heaved through the years?

Question

I want to redo my patio but don't know if I can put some kind of wire over the old and then pour new cement on top of it and level it off so that it will stay nice and not crack .

Answer 1

IF you want to do it right, you need to demolish the old patio and start over. You should add a footer around the edge that runs 6-12 inches below the frost line, backfill the center of the area and compact the soil, and add at least wire fabric for additional rigidity.

Answer 2

Putting concrete over old isn't a good idea - moisture will get in between the layers and cause the new surface to crack - particularly if you live someplace that freezes. My neighbor's walkway to her front door was buckled - they had the concrete cut into section - raised the sections to cut the roots - and then lowered the sections back down. I wonder if that would work for your patio? If you've never sealed your concrete - instead of fighting the cracks - let them work for you - stain your concrete and the cracks give a great textured look. Good luck, Sis