Tenera was approached to provide repair specifications to ensure the long-lasting restoration and waterproofing of three sets of concrete stairs and their corresponding porches at a triplex on Nelson Street in Oakville. The condition of the stairs had deteriorated significantly, with some steps showing exposed rebars, which posed both a structural integrity issue and a tripping hazard. The goal was to ensure the restored steps not only met safety standards but were also protected from further degradation due to environmental exposure.
Repair Methodology
The success of any concrete restoration project hinges on thorough surface preparation, which is essential to achieve strong adhesion and long-lasting durability. First, the contractor removed all the loose and degraded concrete, particularly around the areas where the rebars had become exposed. The exposed rebars were then treated with an anticorrosive coating to protect the metal from further oxidation, which can compromise the concrete matrix and lead to further deterioration.
After securing the reinforcement, the concrete surface was prepared for patching. This involved grinding the surrounding area to create a smooth, uniform surface. An industrial-strength adhesive was applied to the prepared surface to enhance the bond between the existing structure and the new concrete patching material. The damaged areas were then restored using a specialized concrete mix and crack filler formulated to match the original structure in both strength and composition, ensuring that the repair would integrate seamlessly with the existing concrete.
Waterproofing and Sealing
To prevent future water infiltration and protect the newly restored surfaces from environmental damage, the steps and porches were sealed with a polyaspartic waterproofing membrane. This material is renowned for its superior durability and resistance to weather elements such as moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations, which are the primary causes of concrete cracking, spalling, and delamination.
The application of the polyaspartic membrane was performed in two layers. The first layer, or base coat, was applied to form a strong, impermeable seal over the entire surface. An anti-slip aggregate was then broadcast over the base coat to ensure the steps would remain safe for pedestrian use, even in wet conditions. Finally, a topcoat of the polyaspartic material was applied to fully encapsulate the surface, providing both a durable finish and additional protection against wear and tear.
Longevity and Aesthetic Benefits
In addition to the structural benefits, the waterproofing membrane significantly enhances the appearance of the building, giving the steps and porches a renewed, clean aesthetic that improves the overall curb appeal of the triplex. The use of polyaspartic material is particularly advantageous because of its long-term durability—it is designed to last at least a decade under normal use conditions. This ensures that the concrete restoration will remain intact, with minimal maintenance required, protecting the investment in the property while maintaining safety and aesthetics.
By having the contractor to follow this comprehensive restoration and waterproofing procedure, Tenera ensured that the concrete steps were not only repaired to current safety standards but also safeguarded against future degradation, providing the property owners with a long-lasting, durable solution.
Learn more about expansion joint injection and other repair methods by visiting our page: https://www.tenerapro.com/repair-application-stairs
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