I have some concrete steps (a one-piece slab with about 8 steps) that have sunken about six inches at the top of the steps where it meets my porch. I was thinking of digging a hole under the steps near the second-from-the-top step to allow room for an automotive-type 3-ton floor jack. If I raise this slab, how can I support it? Stack flat concrete paver-type stones? Or is there an alternative method? The concrete is in great shape; it's just sagged from settling earth.
2006-09-29 16:25:52 · 4 answers · asked by Jay S 3 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
So far, Blue Eagle, you've given me the best permanent solution. I think when I get new stairs poured, I will definitely have them pour pillars (like a footing) to ensure it doesn't settle in the future. But for now, I guess I AM looking for a band-aid. I normally try to do things the "right" way, but I'm trying to get by for 2-3 years until I can afford the concrete work (also driveway). I was quoted $1,000 by a contractor to jackhammer out the old and pour the new, and I don't think that included pouring footings/pillars. Thanks for your help, everyone.
2006-09-30 03:10:59 · update #1
The right way to do it is to move the steps and pour concrete pillars below the frost line or as low as your foundation for the steps to sit on. this way your steps should settle as your house does. I know this is the hardest and most expensive way to do it but would you want a band-aid fix that you will have to redo again in the future? With water in the ground freezing in the winter, lifting your stairs, and soft in the summer, lowering your stairs, I don't really see any other way of doing it.
2006-09-29 17:58:19 · answer #1 · answered by blue_eagle74 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
theres block thats 8 inches tall and squar at depot if its still in stock the winter and fall means no blocks anywhere but the last ones are half price just jack up one side add some loose gravel and the blocks then glue the blocks together as you use them and do the other side when both are eve use some more bloce to make a new step up front and glue it to the old side walk with block adhesive the other way is to glue blcks down on the top of the steps but thats more blocks and pricey good luck
2006-09-29 16:32:36 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Raising the steps is going to be too tough. I think your best bet is to lower your house.
2006-09-29 17:39:02 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋
you add more cement to them.
2006-09-29 16:27:31 · answer #4 · answered by Rebecca 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋