I recently discovered that my concrete steps and patio are in rough shape. The previous owners did a shoddy job patching them up, and now I have several cracked and broken steps leading to my house, which is built on a granite hill. One of the steps has deteriorated to the point where the top layer is basically just pea gravel and dust. While it's not a foundational issue, everything was once poured together, and I believe there are some voids forming next to the foundation. I'm hoping to find a solution that allows me to cut some of it away, drill down for better footings, and cover it with wood so I can properly grade it for drainage. I've attached photos of the current state of the steps.
2 Answers
You’re definitely not alone in this! It can be frustrating when past owners don’t maintain things properly. If you’re worried about code issues, it might be worth taking a look at local regulations or chatting with a contractor. They could provide some options that keep everything safe and sound!
It sounds like you're dealing with some pretty rough concrete work there! Unfortunately, the patch jobs from the previous owners can often lead to more issues down the line. Maybe you could consider removing the damaged parts and then pouring new concrete to create a more stable base. Just make sure whatever work you do meets local code requirements for safety!

That's good advice! I had a similar issue with my stairs. I ended up using a combination of concrete leveling and decorative pavers for a better look. Just be cautious with drainage to avoid future problems!