AP Lift 430 was selected as the repair material for this project. This product features expansive properties, ideal for filling voids beneath the sunken stairs. Moreover, once cured, AP Lift 430 is very strong, ensuring robust support for the concrete staircase. The material's capabilities aligned perfectly with the project's requirements, offering stability and longevity. Importantly, using this material allowed for a cost-effective solution compared to full replacement. Additionally, this approach preserved the vintage look of the concrete staircase, maintaining its match with the existing patio.
The repair process began with strategic drilling. Two holes were carefully bored into the slab in front of the steps at a steep angle. This approach ensured the material would travel underneath and towards the back of the stairs against the porch wall. Next, injection commenced from the front in three to five-second bursts. The crew used a dial indicator to monitor movement with remarkable precision throughout the process, detecting changes as small as 1/100th of an inch. As the material spread, lifting became visible. The team paused when material emerged from the sides, allowing for initial curing. Subsequently, re-drilling and more injection from the front raised the stairs further, maintaining the original slant with the right side down. A hole was drilled in the slab next to the back right area to correct the slant. Short bursts of injection here helped level the slab. Finally, injection resumed from the front to complete the lift, achieving the final quarter-inch of elevation.
The meticulous approach yielded impressive outcomes. Most notably, the final lift level perfectly matched the newly formed driveway, addressing the customer's primary concern. This precision restored functionality and enhanced the property's aesthetic appeal. The property owner expressed great satisfaction with the results. Furthermore, the successful repair of the antique staircase improved the home's resale value. By preserving the vintage concrete stairs, the project maintained the cohesive look of the exterior, seamlessly blending with the existing patio. The permanent solution eliminated potential concerns for future buyers, positively impacting the property's marketability. Ultimately, this project demonstrated how innovative repair techniques could address structural issues while preserving architectural integrity.