Cement repairs and coatings Masonry cement repairs involve fixing cracks, holes, and other damages in concrete or brick surfaces. This type of work may involve chipping away the damaged area, cleaning and preparing the surface, and then patching it with new cement. Masonry cement coatings involve applying a thin layer of cement to a concrete or brick surface to protect it or to improve its appearance. These coatings can be used to fix cosmetic imperfections, make surfaces more durable, or give them a different finish