QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar is a multipurpose repair mortar uniquely packaged to allow the product to be mixed in the pouch it’s packaged in, eliminating the need for a pail.

    The QUIKRETE company designed this polymer-modified mortar to be fast setting to help you quickly repair and restore damaged concrete and masonry surfaces. It’s formulated to make structural repairs to any concrete, brick, stucco, or other masonry material. You can easily use QUIKRETE to repair damage to various parts of your home. Keep reading to learn how. 



    How to Use QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar

    First, you must mix QUIKRETE with the correct amount of water. To mix, unzip the enclosure and break through the protective seal on the pouch. Then add 10 ounces (1-1⁄4 cups) of water to the mortar, remove excess air from the package and rezip it, then knead thoroughly. Kneading makes sure the dry mixture and water fully mix for proper curing and strength.

    Once the mortar is mixed, unzip the pouch and apply the material with the included application tool. QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar doesn’t require bonding adhesive, and you can apply it to structurally sound, dampened concrete.

    The mortar’s unique properties allow you to sculpt it during application. With 20 minutes of working time, the repair mortar is ideal for both small and large, vertical or horizontal repairs. You can use it for cracks, damaged curbs, deteriorating sewer infrastructure, cracked retaining walls, chipped decorative moldings, damaged bridge columns, and more. The mortar can fill cracks and defects ranging from feather-edge up to two inches deep.

    Additional QUIKRETE Considerations

    QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar will achieve 4,500 psi (pounds per square inch) in compression strength once fully cured. This high strength makes it suitable for structural repairs on critical infrastructure. Proper surface preparation is key — you must chip away all loose debris and deteriorated concrete so the mortar bonds tightly to the solid underlying material.

    For best results, dampen the repair area before application and don’t exceed two-inch layer thickness when building up or filling in defects. You can apply the mortar in multiple layers if you dampen each cured layer before applying the next one.


    QUIKRETE Benefits 

    QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar offers many benefits for DIY and professional concrete repair projects:

    • Uniquely packaged for convenience — no mixing bucket needed
    • Fast-setting and fast-curing formula
    • Can be sculpted for easy application on vertical or horizontal surfaces
    • High strength — achieves 4,500 psi
    • Bonds tightly without need for adhesive
    • Polymer-modified for increased durability and performance

    With proper preparation and application, QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar provides a long-lasting repair solution for damaged concrete and masonry. Its high early strength development allows you to quickly complete repairs.


    Usage Tips

    If you plan on using QUIKRETE for repairs in your home, you should fully understand how to use it first so you don’t run into any unexpected issues. 

    Follow these tips when using QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar:

    • Dampen repair area thoroughly before application
    • Apply in layers no thicker than two inches, allowing each layer to cure between applications
    • Smooth and sculpt material within 20 minutes of mixing
    • Allow mortar to cure for at least one hour before exposure to rain
    • Avoid freeze/thaw cycles during curing
    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    Proper preparation, mixing, and application will ensure the mortar cures to maximum strength. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for complete instructions.

    For more information about Zip & Mix Repair Mortar and other QUIKRETE products, visit www.quikrete.com.


    Is QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar the Right Choice?

    Before choosing this product for your project, ask yourself a few questions. Does your damaged concrete or masonry need high-strength repairs completed rapidly? Will you be doing small-scale repairs that suit the specialized packaging? Have you reviewed the preparation and application tips to use the product successfully?

    QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar is best for repairing and restoring damaged concrete and masonry surfaces. Its high strength and fast cure time make it well-suited for infrastructure repairs you need to complete quickly.

    The unique packaging works well for small repairs but may not be the most cost-effective choice for large projects. For those, a traditional bagged mortar mix may be better.

    This mortar performs best when applied in thin layers with proper surface preparation. It bonds tightly but doesn’t compensate for poor substrate conditions or improper application techniques. Review the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully.

    For small horizontal or vertical repairs on sound concrete, QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar provides key benefits like fast curing, sculptability, and high strength. Make sure to follow all usage tips and allow for full curing time before exposing repairs to normal service conditions.


    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long does the mortar take to cure?

    The initial set occurs ‌15–20 minutes after mixing. The final cure time is one hour. Avoid heavy service loads on the repair until fully cured.


    Can the product be used on damp surfaces?

    You should dampen the concrete surface before applying and remove all standing water.


    What is the maximum application thickness?

    No more than two inches thick per application. Apply in several thinner layers for repairs deeper than two inches.


    Does the mortar contain asbestos?

    No, QUIKRETE Zip & Mix Repair Mortar is asbestos-free.


    Is surface preparation required?

    Yes, you should chip away all loose materials so the mortar bonds to solid concrete. The roughened surface also provides grip.


    Can the product be used for overhead repairs?

    Yes, the mortar can be sculpted and molded even on vertical surfaces. Work quickly within the 20-minute setting time.


    What is the smallest repair the product can be used for?

    It can fill cracks as shallow as feather-edge depth. Make sure cracks are free of dust and debris before application.


    Editorial Contributors
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    Jonathon Jachura

    Contributor

    Jonathon Jachura is a two-time homeowner with hands-on experience with HVAC, gutters, plumbing, lawn care, pest control, and other aspects of owning a home. He is passionate about home maintenance and finding the best services. His main goal is to educate others with crisp, concise descriptions that any homeowner can use. Jon uses his strong technical background to create engaging, easy-to-read, and informative guides. He does most of his home and lawn projects himself but hires professional companies for the “big things.” He knows what goes into finding the best service providers and contractors. Jon studied mechanical engineering at Purdue University in Indiana and worked in the HVAC industry for 12 years. Between his various home improvement projects, he enjoys the outdoors, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with his family.

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    Lee Ann Merrill

    Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.

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