Don’t let a small fracture become a large fissure.

Outside steps are always experiencing the elements. They take the rain, the snow, and all that comes with that. The day to day wear and tear of the elements can break concreate and stone structures down over time. This is particularly true after a winter with lots of ice. When moisture gets into the concrete or stone and then freezes, it creates a pocket of air within the structure. When the ice melts the pocket remains. Eventually, this causes fractures, collapse, and generally bad news.

What should I look for?

The easiest things to look for are visible cracks and crumbles on your steps. If you can see little bits coming off of the structure then you may be in for some trouble. Another thing to watch out for is some nasty weather. It may be beneficial to look carefully at your steps after some very low temperatures or some heavy rain. There’s no need to be overly cautious, but a quick glance at your steps will clue you in to any potential issues. You should also be aware of your steps as you walk on them, checking for any weak spots with your feet.

What should I do if there’s a problem?

Well, if you run into some kind of issue you need to consider whether or not your steps need a simple repair, or a full replacement. Obviously, a small fracture isn’t going to spell the end for your steps, but once you see a fracture the countdown has begun. Once the damage has advanced a bit you should look at the foundation. If it looks weak, then it might be time for a replacement. If the damage is surface or cosmetic then a simple repair should be all you need. Give us a call and we can help you figure out what you need.

If you’re in need of repair for your steps then contact the Tri-State Paving Company. You can reach them by phone, 610.563.9456 (West Chester), 610.932.3566 (Oxford), or 302.757.4100 (Delaware). You can also find them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+