Concrete step repair often take a beating from use and the elements. But they can be repaired inexpensively and quickly with new products designed for this type of repair job. It’s best to do the repairs as soon as possible, before the damaged areas deteriorate further and pose a safety hazard to visitors and customers.

Begin the project by donning your safety gear (goggles, hearing protection and leather gloves), then connect a circular saw or grinder to a GFCI extension cord. With the saw/grinder set to its maximum depth, cut a grid pattern into the step to bust it up (Photos 1 and 2). It’s important to remove at least 3/4 in. of concrete, but a thicker cap will be stronger, so try to remove 1-1/2 in.

Fixing Concrete Steps: Common Issues and Solutions

Prepare the step for a new concrete cap. Clean the surface, then use a broom and wire brush to sweep off loose debris and dirt. Dampen the surface and sweep it clean again. Using a hammer and mason’s chisel, chip away soft or crumbling concrete to the level of existing concrete. Sweep the area free of moss, mildew and mold.

To make a fresh step cap, build a form to match the original height of the step. If the old cap was set too low, the concrete will crack as it sets up. Once the form is in place, mix a batch of concrete and pour it over the old cement. Scoop the concrete with a pointed trowel, then use a margin trowel to fill in recesses between the form and the existing step surface.