Stone stairs and stone walkways, a beautiful site at first, and a nightmare to look at two years down the road. What went wrong? Is there something that could have kept your stone stairs or stone walkways from caving in, cracking, moving, or simply loosening up? The answer is yes. It starts with a proper foundation. At Coast to Coast Masonry, we only do stone work on stairs if there is a proper foundation. A thick foundation is preferred, and such work can be warrantied. A thin concrete slab is most likely insufficient unless heavily reinforced and warranty will be lessened as foundation issues will lead to failure of the stone stairs or stone walkways – this is especially true in the Chicago area with constant freeze and thaw in the winters. Lastly, no foundation is something we will not work with – these stones will “dodge, duck, dip, dive, and dodge” – seriously, it will be a mess.
Stone Stairs, Stone Walkways
Concrete Preparation
The process of constructing stone stairs or stone walkways is begins with pouring concrete stairs or walkways. If concrete already exists, the concrete will be cleaned to a smooth surface before stone installation with the use of high-pressure water and various commercial chemicals and detergents. Upon preparing the surface, the new stone is laid with completely sealed bed and head joints. Polymer-modified mortar will be mixed with 1:1:6 proportions.
Looking for a free estimate on your masonry issues in Chicago or surrounding suburbs, call Coast to Coast Masonry today at 847-438-9165!
Stone Installation
First, solid materials are put in a dry mix and then a minimum amount of water is added as a bonding agent consistent with workability to provide tensile bond strength capacity of the mortar. An additional note, stone at treads will be installed with 1/8” pitch for water runoff.
Local Chicago Masonry Experts
At CTC, we repair, restore, protect, and preserve masonry including brick, stone, or even a chimney crown. Whether it is chimney problems, masonry issues, or a stainless steel chimney liner installation our expert masons are here to help. We use the latest masonry technology, ladder safety, and roof safety techniques to restore brick and protect your home.
We at CTC Masonry are the complete solution to your masonry needs and making your chimney last longer. We highly value our clients and seek to gain their confidence by offering the highest level of customized chimney tuckpointing services and masonry products at a competitive price.
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