When to Apply a Second Coat to Concrete Stairs

Damage To Concrete Stairs

• Concrete contains a great deal of water. When exposed to harsh winter conditions, water crystals within the concrete can go through freeze-and-thaw cycles that weaken the materials, and cause cracks and other flaws in the surface. Spalling can occur, which is when large pieces peel off the surface. This weather damage can be repaired with concrete patch material. The homeowner will, of course, have to use another access to the home while the concrete is drying.

Concrete Repair Materials

• Unless severe cracking undermines the structure of the step system, do-it-yourselfers can patch the surface damage with a number of concrete patch materials that are available at hardware and home improvement stores. A number of special additives and bonding agents help the new patch to adhere to the old concrete. Additives may be mixed within the patching compound. Bonding agents are often painted on the old concrete surface to help the new patch material to stick to it, according to home improvement expert Tim Carter at the AskTheBuilder website. Epoxies are another type of patch material that make quick work of repairs. Generally, you must mix equal parts of the resin and hardener together, and then fill the cracked area. Matching the color of the concrete can be a problem with epoxy patch materials. A skim coat of concrete over the repair can help create a better appearance.

Patching Concrete Stairs

• To repair cracks, holes and separations in concrete stairs, first remove all loose material from the repair area. Then, wash the area with soap and water to remove dirt, grease or other substances so that the patch compound will adhere to the surface. If desired, apply a bonding agent to the crack to help the new concrete stick to the old surface. Pack the material into the crack tightly, and smooth the surface with a piece of lumber or trowel.

Applying The Second Coat

• The second coat is applied while the first is still wet. For this coat, mix the material to a looser consistency like pancake batter. Place the patch material over the area thinly and blend it into the rest of the surface. You can then finish the surface by dragging a concrete finishing broom over it. If the material is too dry and forms little balls during this process, thin the concrete by spraying more water on the surface and then try the broom technique again.