How to Fix Concrete Steps That Have Pulled Away

 

Concrete steps play a crucial role in both the functionality and curb appeal of your home. However, when they begin to pull away from the house, it becomes more than just a cosmetic concern - it's a safety hazard. Uneven steps can lead to trips and falls, posing a risk to your family and guests.

When faced with this issue, many homeowners turn to the internet for DIY solutions. But at what point does a simple fix turn into a job best left to professionals? Let's explore the reasons why concrete steps pull away, the risks of DIY fixes, and how experts can provide a lasting solution.

 

Why Do Concrete Steps Pull Away?

One of the primary reasons concrete steps separate from a house is soil movement. Soil is fundamental to the stability of your home's foundation and any attached structures. Here's how different soil conditions can affect your steps: 

• Dry Spells and Droughts: During extended dry periods, the soil around the home dries out, shrinks, and forms gaps beneath the concrete. This lack of support causes the steps to shift, sink, or pull away. 
• Heavy Rain and Erosion: After a dry period, heavy rainfall doesn't soak into the soil as it usually would. Instead, it rushes through the gaps created by shrinkage, leading to soil erosion. This further destabilizes the foundation supporting your steps. Over time, the cycle of frying, shrinking, and rehydrating weakens the structure, resulting in movement away from the house.

When poor installation or inadequate drainage is also a factor, the likelihood of significant issues increases, impacting both safety and stability.

 

Should You Attempt a DIY Fix?

When homeowners notice their concrete steps pulling away, they often seek DIY solutions online. While these may seem like quick, cost-effective fixes, they often lead to bigger problems down the road. Here's why:

• Addressing Symptoms, Not the Cause: Many DIY fixes, such as filling gaps with concrete or caulk, only provide a temporary cosmetic improvement, meaning the issue will likely return - sometimes worse than before.
• Higher Long-Term Costs: Although DIY methods may seem cheaper upfront, improper fixes can cause further damage. As the steps continue to shift, they may create new tripping hazards, damage adjacent concrete, or even require complete replacement.
• Safety Hazards: Misaligned or unstable steps pose serious safety risks. A simple trip can lead to injuries, turning a minor repair into a major liability.

Could This Indicate Bigger Foundation Problems?

In some cases, shifting concrete steps can be a symptom of a larger foundation issue. If your foundation is sinking or experiencing structural failure, your steps may be one of the first visible signs. Look for cracks in walls, floors, or the foundation near the affected area. If these signs are present, it's crucial to seek professional help to assess and address the issues before it worsens.

 

Why Trust Professionals to Repair Your Concrete Steps?

While DIY fixes may be tempting, repairing concrete steps is usually best left to professionals. Here's why:

• Comprehensive Solutions: Professionals don't just fix the surface problem - they identify and address the root cause to prevent future issues. 
• Specialized Techniques and Tools: At Woodford Brothers, we use advanced methods like polyurethane foam injections to stabilize and lift concrete steps back into place. These techniques not only restore appearance but also ensure long-term stability.
• Prevention of Further Damage: Poorly executed DIY repairs can lead to more extensive and costly damage. Professional solutions ensure the stability and safety of your steps, foundation, and surrounding structures for years to come.

How Do Professionals Fix Concrete Steps That Pulled Away?

At Woodford Brothers, we use the PolyLevel system to effectively repair concrete steps. But how does this method work?

 

Polyurethane foam is injected beneath the affected concrete through small, dime-sized holes. The foam flows into the cracks and voids, expanding and hardening to lift the slab and compress the surrounding soil. This process is: 

• Quick and Efficient: The foam cures rapidly, allowing most concrete surfaces to be usable the same day.
• Durable and Reliable: Unlike other materials, polyurethane foam is waterproof, eco-friendly, and resistant to washing out, drying out, or degrading over time due to temperature fluctuations. 

Get Professional Help Today

At Woodford Bros., Inc., we understand that shifting concrete steps are more than an inconvenience - they often signal underlying problems. Our team of experts will inspect your steps and provide a customized solution. 

 

We offer free inspections and same-day quotes. Don't wait for the problem to worsen - contact us today by calling 1-315-696-8971 or visiting our website.