How to Repair Broken Concrete Steps in Hudson Valley, NY
Here are some tips if you’re wondering how to repair broken concrete steps. First, clean the steps thoroughly. You want to ensure that no loose contaminants are present, which can cause rust stains. Use a brush or sponge to smooth out the steps. Once finished, allow them to dry completely. After they’re dry, paint them if necessary. You should wear proper safety gear when doing this task, as it could result in severe accidents.
Remove any loose material and chisel the cracked edges to start the repair process. You should also dampen the step so the new Cement won’t dry and crumble. Next, prepare the cement mixture by mixing Cement All with water and working it until it reaches a peanut butter consistency. Once complete, you can place the steps back in their original shape. If you’ve noticed uneven steps, you can use a flat board to level them.
Various factors, including weather changes, cause cracks on concrete steps. Over time, water sneaks through crashes and freezes within the stages. The separation spreads gradually; if the cracks are deep and extensive, you’ll have to replace the steps. However, if only the actions are damaged on the surface, a resurfacing process may save you money and time. If resurfacing is not possible, you may wish to contact a concrete contractor to do it for you.
If the damage is only visible to the surface of the steps, you may be able to fill in the hole with a sand mix or use a standard concrete mix. You can use a liquid concrete bonding agent if the cracks are more profound. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the product. Apply the concrete mix to the affected area, and press the initial material into the space. Fill the area thoroughly.
After removing the damaged area with a hammer and mason’s chisel, the cracks may be large enough for a concrete patch to be applied. It would help if you used a caulk gun or masonry crack filler to fill the gap. When the concrete is dry, you can use a putty knife, a trowel, or an L-shaped wood form to smooth the edges.
If the step is too steep to allow for the new Cement, you should use Tapcon screws as anchors. You can use a hammer drill to tighten them. Make sure to keep the head of the screw 1/4 to 1/2 inch below the surface of the new Cement. If the screw is too tight, it could weaken the bond between the new Cement and the old step. And don’t forget to clean the concrete before further effort is put on.
Once the patch has dried, you can apply a sealant to it. For deep cracks, use a foam backer rod. These are available in various diameters and lengths. They help keep the sealant from sinking. When using a foam backer rod, insert it at least 1/4 inch under the surface of the concrete. Alternately, you can apply fine dried sand.
