• Cement statues require maintenance and repair.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  Cement statues can enhance a garden, commemorate a loved one or event and even greet guests as sentinels by the doorway. Unfortunately, like most outdoor equipment, these decorations can sometimes suffer wear and even break. Although some cement statues are shattered or worn beyond all hope, most can benefit from some simple repair options.
  
  

Chips and Cracks

• Of course, the most common form of wear will come in the form of chips and cracks that happen as a natural reaction to age and to being kept outside. Cement continues to harden over time and eventually becomes very brittle, which can result in cracks and even small chips that flake off at the corners of a statue. These cracks and chips can be quickly repaired and minimized by applying a 15-minute epoxy. This quick sealing fix can be bought at a local hardware store and can be applied directly to the crack or as a glue to the broken chip. Remember, use small amounts because epoxy will expand as it dries. Once dry, use several coats of paint to blend the epoxy with the rest of the statue color.
  
  

All in Pieces

• Occasionally, through severe neglect or vandalism, the cement statue may end up in pieces with major parts missing. Although epoxy can repair smaller parts that may have chipped off over time, a major piece, such as a head, an arm, a wing or a shield, may require a more substantial rigging to remain attached. Start by drilling a hole in the center of the damaged part and a corresponding hole in the center of the damaged portion of the main unit. Next cut a dowel down to fit as a brace in the center of the statue. Once complete, surround with epoxy for cement and keep pressured until dry.
  
  

Prevention

• As with most things, prevention of damage to statues is better than a cure. Prevent statues from falling into disarray by coating them with fresh coats of paint when they start to peel or fade. Additionally, cement statues do not receive cold weather well and should be protected from winter freezes and snowfall whenever possible. For exposed statues, snow should be dusted from the statue before moisture can leech into the cement, causing wear and erosion.