How to Concrete Cracked Stairs

Concrete stairs serve as the direct pathway from the exteriors of many homes to their interiors, whether at the front, in the rear or from the garage. When these sets of stairs -- some of which are hollow -- crack, a potentially dangerous situation materializes: If the concrete separates, the stairs themselves could crumble as someone walks on them, creating the chance for serious injury. Sealing these cracks with concrete patches can re-create the strong bond that structurally sound concrete has, keeping your family and guests safe.

Chisel
Hammer
Wire brush
Condensed air
Concrete adhesive
Portland cement
Fine sand
Bucket or wheelbarrow
Trowel or jointing tool
Plastic sheeting
Tape or weights
Spray bottle

Instructions

- 1
  Insert a chisel into the crack and hammer slightly at it to chip away at the base of the crack. Chip until the base of the crack is about 1 inch wider than the surface of the crack on both sides. Known as undercutting, this technique allows more room for the patching material to spread and bond.
- 2
  Run a wire brush through the cracked area to remove loose pieces of concrete and dust from the area. Blow out the crack with a hose or condensed area to remove all remaining small particles of dirt and dust.
- 3
  Brush concrete adhesive into the expanded crack, as well as to the surface of the crack up to ½ inch from the crack itself. Allow the adhesive to dry until tacky, per product instructions. This material will strengthen the bond between the cracked stair and the patch.
- 4
  Mix 2 parts portland cement and 5 parts fine sand together in a bucket or wheelbarrow. Add enough water to make the material clump together when you hold it in your hand, but ensure that it is not runny.
- 5
  Spread the patching material into the expanded crack with a trowel or pointing tool. Overfill the crack slightly, then scrape the flat edge of your trowel or tool over the surface to remove any excess. Allow the patch to dry for two hours before continuing.
- 6
  Cover the patch with plastic sheeting; tape down or weigh down the edges so that they don't blow away. Keep this cover in place for five days.
- 7
  Lift the cover once per day and mist the patch with a fine spray of water. This ensures that the patch dries slow and strong. Do not let anyone use the steps while the patch dries, as uneven pressure applied to the stairs can crack the uncured patch.

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