Yes, you do need to add water to mix Quikrete 124020 Quick Setting Cement—but just the right amount! For best results: Use clean water (not from a pond or hose with sediment). The recommended mix ratio is about 5½ parts cement to 1 part water by volume. Always add the cement to the water, not the other way around—this helps prevent clumping. Mix only as much as you can apply in 5 minutes, since it sets fast (in about 10–15 minutes). If you're repairing shallow damage (less than 1" deep), you can also mix it with Quikrete Concrete Acrylic Fortifier instead of water to boost strength and adhesion