I have a front stoop that was in need of repair. It is cement base with brick outline and brick steps. The top platform consisted of slate in a bed of cement, which is outlined with brick. Due to loose slate, I removed the slate and levelled the platform. I poured a mixture of 2:1 to 3:1, portland cement: quickcrete pro finish mortar mix per instruction of the local hardware salesman. I also added an adhesive to the water mix. The first layer of cement was about 4-6 inches thick, done in about 75 degree weather a few weeks ago. Today I added a second layer to bring the cement platform level with the outlining bricks. I used the same formula as above and put down a much thinner coat, about 1/2 inch of material. Weather was humid and 85 degrees. As it dried, there were many cracks.

What went wrong??? Was it too thin of a coat? Weather trouble? Too fast drying? Now I am left with the perfect level of cement but multiple cracks. What to do next???