Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 9/2/2008

Question
Concrete steps (7 high) have separated from the front porch.  The wood railing  that lines the steps has been pulled out almost 2 inches from the posts on the porch.  Can this be repaired and what might the cost be.  This is not a do it yourself job. It is for rental property and I need some guidance on what this entails.
thanks!!!

Answer
Hi Carol, you can probably patch the gap caused by the separation and fix the railing.  But to really repair it properly the steps need to be torn out and redone.  To patch the gap you can get some grout or mortar and fill it in.  To fix the railing, depending on how it is built you may need to remove the short piece and add a longer one or try to fit a piece into the gap and glue it in place.  Without actually seeing the way it is built I can't give much more detailed information.   I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com