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There is a gap between my concrete stairs leading to my house and the exterior wall. The gap is about 1-inch. My questions are: (1) what sort of backing material would you recommend using so that when I fill the gap, I have something to push the filling material against?; (2) What sort of filling material would you use – conrete, stucco (the house siding is stucco)?; and (3) What product would you recommend using to ensure that the new filler material sticks to the stucco and concrete?
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If the stairs are on a different footing than the wall, which is very likely, then the two should not be joined. If they were joined then eventually they will crack due to movement by expansion and contraction.
I would suggest thinking about a type of "skirting" that would be attached to the wall and block the 'gap.' Don't fasten the skirting to the steps, at the step location use an expansion material based on the finish materials you select.
I have no idea what you would want to use for the skirting material. It more than likely depends on what you can afford.
These are just my suggestions, maybe someone else has a better idea.
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get backer rod (sized for the amount of gap you are trying to fill). pack it in to a depth about 3/8 to 1/2. then fill the remainder with a good masonry urethane caulk (sonneborn). the caulk bead should be put in gap side to side and then joined with your finger to make it look good. you'll have to play with it for a good looking finish as a 1" gap is rather large but it can be done. maybe put some fall to it so water doesn't sit in it. clean up is with min. spirits only and it is hard to clean your hands even with the thinner. both products can be had at a masonry supply. best of luck to ya
*Clifford, The gap indicates that there is movement. I believe any portland based repair would deteriorate. I would suggest to acid wash the crack and install backer rod 3/4" below surface. Caulk both ends to create a "dam". Caulk lrregularities along backer rod to create a sealed "trough".Now use Sonoborn SL-1 (self-leveling) caulk to fill it. Cut a very small hole in the tip and be patient. To blend the patch further; sprinkle sand or pulverised concrete on the wet surface. Protect from traffic for three days. Also, using the primer for the caulk will multiply the adhesion. Food for thought, Rick
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There is a gap between my concrete stairs leading to my house and the exterior wall. The gap is about 1-inch. My questions are: (1) what sort of backing material would you recommend using so that when I fill the gap, I have something to push the filling material against?; (2) What sort of filling material would you use - conrete, stucco (the house siding is stucco)?; and (3) What product would you recommend using to ensure that the new filler material sticks to the stucco and concrete?