Pleasanton Concrete Steps and Stoops

Excellent Concrete Steps and Stoops

If there are cracks in your concrete steps and stoops, these will not only be a tripping hazard but they can also compromise the curb appeal of your home.  While concrete steps can last for over several decades, they will get to a point where they will begin to develop small gaps, holes, cracks, and crevices. When you notice these imperfections, you need to repair them as soon as possible. If not attended early enough, the small problems will turn into bigger problems. Dial (925) 961-5004 for free estimates.

You don’t have to let these imperfections linger any longer. Get in touch with a Pleasanton concrete contractor.  Your best bet when it comes to concrete repair is to work with a professional driveway contractor.  But if you choose to do it yourself, here are a few steps you need to follow.

Choose the right concrete repair material

You can’t repair concrete surfaces using concrete. A good idea is to use a concrete repair mix that is readily available online and home centers. Some of the options available are latex, epoxy compounds, mortar mixes, and patching materials. Mortar mixes are suitable for large cracks while the other products are suitable for repairing cracks that are narrower than an eighth of an inch.

Preparing the cracked surface

Use a small chisel and hammer to remove the crumbling, cracked or loose concrete. Ensure that you have chipped to one inch below the surface. You should then seriously rinse the area as you scrub with a wire brush to get rid of any loose and lingering particles. Remember that the work is dusty. To enhance cleanup, you can spread a tarp below the areas you are working on. Remember to put on the right protective gear.

Fix concrete cracks

When using epoxy or latex, you will need to start by mixing it as per the manufacturer's specifications. You can use a putty knife or a mason's trowel to put in the material. Ensure that it gets deep into the crack. You should then smoothen the product using the surrounding knife. Remember that different mixes will cure differently and it is, therefore, advisable to consult the direction of your preferred product.

If the imperfections are big, it is advisable to use the mortar mix. To create your mix, combine one portion of cement with three portions of sand and enough water to create a thick paste. Moisten the problematic area before applying a mortar mix using a putty knife or a trowel. When working, ensure that you are getting rid of air pockets. To do that, press down the applied product firmly.

Finally, you will need to smoothen the patch to ensure that it remains level with the surrounding concrete. Allow it to cure for two hours. You can then cover the area using plastic sheeting. This will help to moisten it. Keep sprinkling water under that plastic each day until you are sure the surface has hardened.

Repairing your concrete steps and stoops isn’t easy. You need a qualified, experienced and bonded concrete contractor Pleasanton to handle the project for you. If you are searching for one such masonry contractor, get in touch with Pleasanton Concrete And Masonry on (925) 961-5004.