How to Repair Concrete Steps in Cleveland OH
If you have cracked steps in your home, you may be wondering how to repair concrete steps. The good news is that concrete steps can be fixed without hiring a professional. You can improve your efforts at home using concrete bonding. This solution is applied to the broken parts of the step using a brush. The entire process can take about 20 minutes and costs only about six times as much as concrete. You can apply the bonding to both the surface and the base of the steps.
Before you start the repair, make sure to remove all loose particles and debris. The damage may be more profound than the surface. If it is, use a hammer and mason’s chisel to chip away the damaged concrete. You can also use a stiff brush to remove loose particles or debris. If the problem is only minor, you may need to use an air compressor to remove all debris.
First, prepare a concrete form to match the original height of the step. This form must be set 1 inch out from the old face. The extra inch should be removed because it will cause the action to overhang the sidewalk. Next, use a piece of foam under the form to create a gap for the step to rise during the freeze. When the concrete has set, you can paint the step. Make sure that you use cement that is crack-resistant.
To repair a concrete step, you should clean it thoroughly. Clean the area with a stiff brush to remove any loose debris. Then, use a patching compound. Mix the mixture well and then apply it to the steps. Alternatively, you can use an air compressor to apply the adhesive. Then, use masonry cement for the rest of the steps. Once this is dry, you can repaint the steps.
Depending on the damage, concrete steps may need to be repaired to return to their original shape. Repairing a concrete action can be a quick process. It will involve smoothing out the damaged concrete and applying a new layer of concrete. To seal it, you can also use a sealant and cover the steps with plastic to prevent water from penetrating the action. It should be noted that the repairs may indicate foundation issues that require professional intervention.
If your steps are not a perfect fit, you may need to use a concrete repair compound. This product has a three-times stronger adhesive than most concrete. It also sets quickly so that you can use it within an hour. When appropriately applied, the repair process will not only restore the steps to their original condition but also add years to their lifespan.