How to Repair and Strengthen a Reinforced Concrete Structure

Preparation

• 1

  Chisel out the damaged mortar at the joint under an end cap.

• 2

  Continue to chisel off the mortar under the cap until it loosens. Remove the end cap.

• 3

  Remove any loose mortar exposed by taking off the end cap.

• 4

  Take off the rest of the caps on the row just as you did the first one.

• 5

  Smooth out the mortar on the top row with the hammer and chisel.

Installation

• 6

  Measure the dimensions of your wall. Obtain flagstone caps that will overhang the wall by 1/4 inch. This helps prevent moisture damage.

• 7

  Obtain premixed mortar and place the contents of a bag in a wheelbarrow. Add the recommended amount of water and stir with a hoe.

• 8

  Place a small amount of mortar on the mortarboard. Scoop enough mortar off with a trowel to make a 1-inch layer over the base for the end cap.

• 9

  Spread the mortar on the wall. Center the flagstone end cap on the mortar bed and press down. Continue to press until the mortar bed is about 3/8 inch thick. Trim off excess mortar with the trowel. Ensure that the cap overhangs the wall by 3/4 inch on the sides.

• 10

  Install the rest of the caps on the row as you did the first. Cut the last cap to fit with a hammer and chisel, if you only need a half-sized stone. Keep in mind that most walls are built by staggering the rows, so one end is likely to contain a partial block or stone.