If your business has concrete steps leading to your entryway, and you have noticed areas that have cracking and crumbling within, you will want to make the necessary repairs so no one gets injured when trying to get into your establishment. Repairing a set of concrete steps is usually done by a contractor, but if you are handy with tools, you may be able to make the repairs on your own. Here are some steps to follow when repairing your concrete steps.

Materials You Will Need

• Pressure washer
• Garden hose
• Concrete cutter and blade
• Pieces of lumber
• Vegetable oil
• Clean piece of cloth
• Bricks
• Ready-to-mix concrete
• Wheelbarrow
• Mixing stick
• Trowel

Cleaning The Steps

Before starting any repairs, the steps will need to be thoroughly cleaned so there is no debris obstructing the application of the new concrete. It will allow the concrete to adhere properly, as well. Start on the top step and use a pressure washer to wash away any dirt and grime from the concrete. Move your way down the staircase cleaning each step in the same way. Allow the concrete to dry completely.

Removing Broken Portions

Remove any crumbled and broken portions of your concrete steps so new concrete will be sturdy without the risk of weakening prematurely from broken portions underneath. This is done with the use of a concrete cutter. Put on safety goggles and heavy-duty gloves to keep you safe while using this equipment.

If you are using a wet concrete cutter, attach your garden hose to the blade so it stays cool while you are cutting out the broken pieces of concrete. If you are using a dry concrete cutter, have a friend stand next to you as you do the process so they can spray down the blade with water as you cut. 

Pouring The Concrete

Rub your lumber pieces with vegetable oil using a clean piece of cloth. This will allow the lumber pieces to be removed without concrete sticking to them after the steps are constructed. Place lumber against the sides of each step you are repairing. Hold the pieces in place by pressing bricks up against them. This will form a mold so that the concrete you pour will be uniform with the existing concrete steps you have in place.

Pour the ready-to-mix concrete into a wheelbarrow and add the recommended amount of water. Mix well and pour immediately into each mold up to the top. Use a trowel to smooth any lumpy portions of concrete and remove any excess. Allow the concrete to harden for a few hours before removing the bricks and wood pieces. Let the concrete cure for a full day before allowing customers to use the steps. If you'd rather a professional do the job for you, look for concrete cutting in Edmonton.