I like to repair my brick thread steps. The repair will have to be a complete removal of bricks as all joints are deteriorated beyond simple pointing repair. The base looks solid.
Instead of reusing the bricks, I like to make concrete threads that resemble limestone threads. I only need 4 pieces. Each would be about 3 feet long, 10 inches wide and 2 inches thick. I would put 2 rebars in each for extra strength. Made this way, would it withstand the wetting and freeze/thaw cycles of NJ winter, as the limestone can? I know the sidewalks are 4 inches, but I don’t know if 2 inch thickness would be durable. I considered cast in place but I want some overhang and chipped edges, and I think I can control the riser heights better this way. The present risers do not meet code.
I also like to expose the aggregate on the surface to match the existing sidewalk. How do I do this? Do I just wash the surface after the concrete is set (an hour later? ) or is this done with acid wash? How do I do this without making the surface weak? Thank you in advance.
Replies
Treads.
Yeah, the Pimps downtown would faint dead away to hear you referring to the threads they wear as being stiff like limestone! LOL
for something that thin, I don't think you want an agreggate large enough to be exposed. Also the process of washing it out can weaken a crete mix. I'd stay away from the exposed idea.
For the re-inforcing, i would get some wythe for re-inforcing block walls. The 9" for a 10" block ought to be just right., then tie a #3 rebar to it.
use an extra bit of portland more than normal, and don't make it a wet mix. There may be additives that would help it resist water. When you make each one, keep it wrapped in plastic for a week.
The articles or books on concrete countertops might help you with forms for these.
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Is it Limestone or slate? or Blue stone?
Why not just use stone? It's much prettier, very durable and
really not that expensive.
Figure out what kind of stone your after,
Figure out tread size.
have the yard cut it to size.
much simpler, and nicer.
henley is right. I would price out the real mccoy first before the agg.
Re. the thin step, should not be a problem. You can buy 12" round ones 1 1/2" thick at most supply centers.
Use a 4000 psi +++ mix. (the more cement the stronger) keep the mix firm. Too much water weakens the cement. (higher water:cement ratio makes weaker mix that is why a stiff mix is always prescribed)
I would definitely use wire and bar.
mix with the correct aggragate, and as soon as you have screeded it off, get a liquid retarder and spray it on the surface. (I used a product called Rogesal or something like that years ago but your concrete/cement supplier will have the right stuff)
You spray on the retarder on the surface, let the concrete set for a bit and then hose off the surface. Voila, exposed aggregate.
The problem is that you now have lots of knooks and crannies for water to sit and freeze in. You must keep the concrete sealed and keep water from penetrating the surface or you will get degredation. (it will fall apart)
good luck
You can mix and pour your own. Do a search here on concrete counters and you will find lots of info .
Or shout out to "Waters".
One caution, exposed aggregate is really not good in a climate with high freeze thaw cycles. The freeze will be popping stones out and leave an ugly finish.
I would use "Sacrete" brand redi mix or an equivalent that is made for countertops and other thin pours. 5000 lb. mix with all the correct additives already mixed in.
Thank you all for your replies. I did not price the limestone. I just assumed they would be more than I would want to spend. They probably are, but I will price them and make the actual comparison to concrete and time.
I will definitely check the books on concrete countertops. Is there a book that you can recommend? I would need information on physical properties of thin concrete casting, not just how to make them. Outdoor behavior as well, such as when used in a grill station? If I'm buying a book, I'd like to know from the big bang to end of time.
And what is it about thread and tread? Those are the only 2 words that I don't forget and confuse all the time. Anyway, thank you all again.
And what is it about thread and tread? Those are the only 2 words that I don't forget and confuse all the time
Well, it could be in the way people near the jersey shore pronounce "r's" in words.
Horizontal surface one trods upon is a tread. Tread is the corrugated contact surface between a tire and the road.
Thread is a fiber woven to make some larger thing; whether woven into fabric, or stiching things together.Occupational hazard of my occupation not being around (sorry Bubba)
LOL for about a minute! Thank you. I lived about 3 years in south Jersey, Vineland, when I was a beginning teenager. The things that will stick with you for decades. Anyway thanks again.
I did a "temporary" section of my walkway, in Ottawa, about four years ago. We have lots of freeze/thaw here but the straight out of the bag premix still looks perfect. Granted, I don't use salt on it to de-ice. I used something called HR 8000, IIRC, which is presumeably 8000 psi and touted as high strength and freeze resistant. Just add water and pour. There must be a similar product available in your area.
Oh yeah, I also did three window sills with similar success.
Edited 5/4/2008 3:06 pm ET by sisyphus