Fix Broken Concrete Steps Baltimore MD
The first step in fixing broken concrete steps is to remove the cracked or chipped area. Before starting, measure the area and mark the spot on the step that needs repair. If the steps are not symmetrical, measure three inches from the edge and then work your way in. In addition, make sure to wear protective gear and connect the saw to a GFCI extension cord. After the area has been removed, use a hammer to break the remaining concrete chunks.
Next, you should prepare a small amount of cement. Use a small amount so that it will not dry out and crumble easily. To ensure even coverage, add a small amount of water to the mix. Next, use a trowel to spread the wet cement on the damaged area. Work the cement in all the cracks and crannies of the step. Then, use a flat board to level the step.
After removing all the loose pieces, use a hose to wash the concrete with a solution of dish soap and water. After a few minutes, use a hose to blast off any soap. If the concrete is a bit dirty, you can also use a power washer. After the step two, wait at least a day before applying the concrete repair mixture. A few hours after the first application, the repaired area can be reopened for foot traffic.
If the cracks are on a corner, it is best to recap the steps. This involves breaking away the old concrete and rebuilding them with new concrete. This process can be done yourself for under $225. It takes two days and will cost you approximately $250 in materials. Make sure to rent the right tools to get the job done. Rental tools can save you a lot of money and you don’t have to worry about storing them. You can even order them online and have them delivered right to your door.
If you have cracked, chipped, or broken concrete steps, it is best to fix them before they become dangerous. Concrete steps are made to last, but it is possible to repair them yourself without spending a lot of money. Even an inexperienced DIYer can fix concrete steps in one day if you know how. There are many methods of concrete repair, and they all require a bit of work. Using a concrete repair gun or pressure washer can help you complete this task quickly.
Chipped concrete steps are a common occurrence. It is important to repair them quickly so that they don’t become dangerous. Small chips are usually easy to fix with a few tools, but larger chunks of concrete will require more know-how. Repairing chipped concrete steps begins with cleaning the step’s surface thoroughly, so that new material can bond with it. If you have trouble doing it yourself, consider hiring a professional for the job.
The cost of concrete repair varies. The average cost of repairs is between $8 and $300 per square foot, but most homeowners end up paying less than $500 for the whole job. Whether you choose to hire a specialist or do it yourself will depend on the extent of the damage and how many steps you have. The repair of concrete steps should be affordable for most homeowners – a simple step replacement can cost as little as $20 while a more extensive one may cost up to $800. A professional repair job is usually done for a small amount, and can save you money on home insurance.
Another option is to resurface the concrete steps. You can repair loose concrete by scraping it off or using a concrete resurfacer after it has set. Once the concrete has set, you can smooth it out or add a texture to prevent it from slipping. If you are replacing a concrete step that is set on a separate foundation, you may want to consider getting a new one altogether. With a quality precast concrete step, you’ll be glad you did.