You probably don’t think much about your brick porch as you walk up and down the steps each day on your way in and out. But you may start having problems over time when a brick step starts sinking, a tread becomes uneven or the porch starts to shift.
You may not notice it right away, as most changes to brickwork happen gradually. If something feels off, a brick contractor in Metro Detroit can evaluate the porch and recommend solutions to correct the problem before it gets worse.
What Makes Brick Steps Difficult to Navigate?
Consistency is key to having a safe, comfortable staircase. When one tread is noticeably higher, lower, narrower or more sloped than the others, this is where problems can arise. It doesn’t take a big variation to make a difference, either. Even the smallest variation can interrupt natural stride patterns.
Be on the lookout for:
- Loose or rocking bricks
- Uneven heights between steps
- Sunken areas
- Cracked or deteriorating mortar
- Sloping or tilted treads
- Crumbling brick edges
- Movement at the junction of the steps and the porch
- Gaps between bricks
These problems tend to be more than cosmetic, and affect how people safely enter and leave your Michigan home.
Why Do Brick Steps Become Uneven?
Steps that were level when installed can often sink over the years due to settlement beneath the structure. Add water to the mix and you get even more deterioration, particularly in the cracks and joints.
On top of that, repeated freeze-thaw cycles can contribute to movement and deterioration over many Michigan winters.
What About Steps That Are Too Steep?
Even when deterioration isn’t present, older brick steps may have dimensions that feel awkward compared with new ones. High risers and narrow treads can make it challenging to climb and descend the stairs, particularly for older adults, kids, and those with mobility concerns.
When planning a porch rebuild, evaluate the entire layout instead of just replicating an uncomfortable design.
Repair the Step, or Address What’s Underneath?
The first step is to find out what’s causing the unevenness. Depending on the findings, your contractor may decide to reset individual bricks, repair mortar joints, correct damaged sections, or rebuild a large portion of the steps. When your brick contractor can identify the underlying cause of the problem and fix it, this can prevent the same problem from happening in the future.
Make Your Front Entrance Safer, and Better Looking
Your front porch welcomes people to your home. Not only does it contribute to curb appeal, it provides safe passage for family members and guests. Keeping your masonry work in good condition is key to being a responsible homeowner.
That’s why you should walk up and down your steps occasionally to assess how they feel. Is every step consistent? Are any bricks moving underfoot? Do you see cracks, gaps or uneven areas?
If something feels off, get it looked at by an experienced masonry contractor in Metro Detroit.
Contact It’s the Brick Guys
Don’t wait till your porch creates unsafe and unsightly conditions. Contact us at (833) 627-4257 to schedule an inspection of your brick porch and steps today.
