How to Repair a Stoop

Examine the damaged area of the stoop. If it is a corner, you will have two sides of the stoop to repair. Most other damage, including chips and cracks, can be fixed by repairing one side.

Lay out a tarp at the base of the side you are working on. Use the tarp to catch debris for easier cleanup later.

Chip off any protruding gravel or cement with a hammer and chisel. Make the surface as flat as possible. The damaged area might open further as you work; this is OK since you are rebuilding the entire side.

Brush away dust, debris, sand and other loose particles from the damaged area. You want as clean a surface as possible.

Build a wooden form for the repair from scrap lumber. Measure the width of the sides and the face of the stoop to determine the length of the form pieces. Add one inch to each side of the face piece. Make the form the height of the stoop. Cut the pieces to size. Set up the sides so they are sandwiched between the facing piece and the foundation behind the stoop. Use bricks, blocks or angled 2-by-4-inch lumber to hold the form in place along the front. You can place a brick along each side for further support.

Brush concrete adhesive onto the damaged area. This adhesive will become the bond between the new and old concrete.

Prepare the concrete mix according to the instructions on the bag. Use a 5-gallon bucket to hold the mix. This allows you to move the mix more easily around the site and keeps obstacles at a minimum when moving around.

Rub one side of the wood form with cooking oil. This prevents the form from sticking to the mix when you pull off the form.

Apply the concrete to the side of the stoop with a trowel. Smooth out the concrete with a scrap block of wood, removing any excess from the surface. Push against the damaged area when you pass over it to press the new concrete into the gaps. This will seal the damaged area.

Allow three hours for the concrete to settle. Remove the form. Texture the new concrete with your wood block to conform to the other sides. Place the form back into position. Cover the entire side with plastic. Allow the concrete to cure for the number of days recommended on the package instructions.