Expert Concrete Sidewalk and Step Installation by EZ Masonry Inc
When it comes to concrete work, quality craftsmanship is key to long-lasting results. At E-Z Masonry Inc, we specialize in both the installation and repair of concrete sidewalks and steps in St. Paul and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re building new or replacing old, cracked walkways and stairs, our team ensures precision and durability in every project.
Properly installed concrete can last for decades with minimal maintenance, providing years of safe and attractive service. Our skilled professionals take pride in their work, paying close attention to every detail to ensure your sidewalks and steps look great and stand the test of time.
We start by thoroughly preparing the base, removing at least two inches of soil and replacing it with a permeable granular base (Class 5). This ensures that your new sidewalks and steps are laid on a solid foundation, which helps prevent future cracking and settling. The concrete we use is designed for strength, with a minimum compressive strength of 4,000 psi, providing a tough, durable surface that can withstand Minnesota’s harsh weather conditions.
Our forms are set with precision to maintain proper elevations, ensuring that water runs off appropriately to avoid pooling or damage. Before pouring, we moisten the base to ensure the concrete cures properly, preventing issues like shrinkage cracks.
During installation, we take extra care to protect your surrounding property, including your lawn, driveway, and home exterior. When removing old concrete, we recycle the material into Class 5 gravel, which we then use to create a stable base for your new sidewalks or steps, helping to minimize environmental impact.
If you’re looking for something beyond standard concrete, ask about our range of decorative options, including antiqued, vintage, exposed aggregate, colored concrete, acid stains, and sealers to give your project a unique, custom look.
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There is no building material with a shorter shelf life than fresh plastic concrete. Mistakes in its handling won’t always present themselves in the first few years of service but our true craftsman can visit their work for decades with a real sense of pride.
When installed properly, concrete pavement will provide years of trouble free service with minimal maintenance requirements. E-Z Masonry’s pursuit of lasting impressions calls for focus in every step of the process. Our base preparation begins with the removal of at least two inches of soil and replacing the displaced soil with permeable granular base (Class 5). Your new steps and sidewalks will be placed on a minimum of two inches of permeable, granular base. Our mix designs specify a minimum of 4000 psi. compressive strength. Forms will be placed to maximize run-off and maintain proper elevations as they relate to the aprons, doors and surrounding lawn. Prior to concrete placement the base will be moistened to minimize “sapping” of the plastic concrete’s internal water and then finished to the agreed specifications for appearance, strength, and longevity.
During each phase of your installation extreme care and attention will be paid to the surrounding surfaces to avoid unnecessary damage to your lawn and home (see picture, bottom right). E-Z Masonry will include complete removal and prompt disposal of your existing concrete at a nearby site where the material will be recycled to “Class 5” gravel base. This recycled material will then used for base preparation to ensure uniform compaction for optimal crack resistance.
Ask about our antiqued finish or exposed aggregate, colored, stamping, acid stains and sealers for a more distinctive look for your project or click on the Patio & Decorative Concrete link to view samples of these alternative finishes.
