05/27/2026
For maximum strength, always have the end of your coping stone halfway on top of your block stone below.
When someone builds an improper step or retaining wall... later down the road you'll notice a split at its weakest point where organic material will follow, which then year after year will only worsen the situation.
In this case, salt damage is to blame.
Salt minerals stay and cling on to concrete making it weaker as time goes by.
This homeowner bought their place 3 years ago and the previous owners had the top of the steps replaced but left the stones underneath.
Salt destroyed the top stones but the hidden salt residue hung on.
Eventually, the visual signs of decay started to appear and in result making a hazardous walkway an important issue that needed to be addressed.
When we came to quote for a dismantle and rebuild, we prioritized this particular project as it was a clear safety concern.
In less than a week, we came over and did a complete restoration.
The walkway leading to the front door wasn't the customers concern but as a perfectionist, we adjusted the 8" drop to 7" and relayed the whole uneven upper walkway.
Originally when we quoted this job we mentioned that the 1" difference could be adjusted and the customers weren't worried about it. Maybe cost? Idk
When we got the job and having some small talk, a year ago him and his wife had a fall ( bad knee and a bad back)
After finding this out, pulling the upper walkway up and out, resetting the base then relaying was done without hesitation.
Upon completion, and payment due, we were blessed with a $50 tip.
Creating long-term relationships and looking out for our customers safety and well-being is worth every handshake at the end of each project.
Thanks Neil and Cathy
