Damaged concrete can cause lots of trouble when walkways are exposed to heavy foot traffic. Concrete steps will also wear down after a while, and the danger that damaged concrete steps create puts many people at risk of injury. Proper maintenance and care can prevent concrete from becoming damaged, but sometimes corners and edges will chip away.
Concrete step repair should be done as early as possible for several reasons. The first of which is that you do not want any harm to come to yourself, your family, or any other persons. Also, you will be legally liable for injuries that occur on your property. If possible, at the very first sign of deterioration, you should repair your concrete steps.
Fortunately, when spotted early, repairs to concrete steps can be done quicker and will be less expensive. While some minor imperfections may not indicate a worsening problem, such as discoloration or stains, other signs like weathering or flaking could lead to more damage further down the road. These minor issues can be repaired with a resurfacer. The result is a smooth and blemish-free later that works quickly and self cures.
Structural damage to stairs will require much more attention. Winters can be especially aggressive when it comes to wearing down your concrete steps. Regardless if the damage is done on a horizontal or vertical surface, any loose material needs to be cleared, otherwise it may interfere with the repairs.
Consider this: a damaged concrete step is one that is used often. When allowed to further wear down from constant abuse, it only creates more potential for injuries. Also, it needs to be repaired relatively quickly because of the stairs’ importance to your family, friends, or customers. A drawn-out repair can be problematic.
As you consider your plan of attack for repairing concrete steps, you may also need to consider your city’s codes, regulations and permits. Some communities may not require a building permit for minor step repairs, but other municipalities have more strict guidelines when it comes to construction or repairs.
It is possible for homeowners to tackle a concrete step repair on their own, but larger projects or commercial settings may need extra attention. Contacting a professional may be the wise choice to make if the damage is extensive.
DC Byers will help identify any damage to your concrete steps, and will ensure safety when the job is complete. Our services also include removing trip hazards, as we grind away the raised sections to make sure the sidewalk once again smoothly transitions from piece to piece.
To get a quote on any of your masonry repair needs, call DC Byers Company/Grand Rapids today at (616) 538-7300. Our experience and expertise allow us to assess the damage correctly and plan how to perform the repairs to allow you to use your space properly.
For masonry restoration and repair, DC Byers Company/Grand Rapids looks at all the factors contributing to the deterioration of the concrete. By understanding the underlying problems, we can start working on the most satisfying and cost-effective solutions.