Stone Porch Repair: How to Repair Cracked Stones
A crack in the stone porch will continue to grow if it is not repaired immediately. Although stone tiles offer durability, they can get cracked due to a variety of reasons such as a heavy object falling straight onto the surface of the porch. Small cracks can be repaired by patching, but heavy damage requires replacing the entire tile.
Tools and Materials
- Chisel
- Mallet
- Brush
- Stone Repair Mortar
- Masking Tape
- Stone Tile
- Thinset
- Grout
- Rubber Float
- Trowel
- Bucket
- Stone Sealer
Step 1 – Plan the Repair
Check the stones in the stone porch. Mark all stones for repair and for tile replacement with masking tape. Next, purchase stone repair mortar to repair small cracks, holes or chippings and replacement tiles for large crack. Purchase a similar stone tile that resembles the texture and color of the damaged tile. For small crack repair, go to Step 2. Go to Step 4 for step on how to replace a heavily-damaged tile.
Step 2 – Clean the Crack Thoroughly
Remove any loose debris present inside the crack. If the loose debris is trapped inside, use a chisel and a mallet to open the crack further allowing the loose debris to be pulled out. As soon as the chunks are free, brush away the dust from the surfaces of the crack. If an air compressor is available, use it to blow away any dust particles left. This allows the stone to be ready for any patching repair work.
Step 3 – Apply the Patch
Mix the pre-mixed stone repair mortar in a bucket until it reaches a certain mud-like consistency. Follow the instructions on the product carefully to ensure that the consistency is correct. Use a trowel to set the mortar in place. Keep the mortar level with the other stone tiles. Allow the mortar to dry for about 20 minutes. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess mortar from the surrounding areas of the crack. Let the mortar cure for about 48 to 72 hours depending on the instructions on the product. When the patch has cured sufficiently enough, seal the entire porch.
Step 4 – Replace the Tile
Use a chisel and mallet to remove the grout surrounding the tile. Slide the chisel under the tile and push it with a mallet. This should remove the tile from the subfloor. Chip off any remaining thinset mortar from down under. Mix some thinset on a bucket and apply it on the vacated subfloor. Position the tile above the mortar and level it with the other tiles.
When the thinset has cured, mix sanded grout to the correct consistency. Use a rubber float to press the grout into the joints. Wait for 20 minutes. Use a damp cloth to remove excess grout from the surrounding tiles. Let it cure overnight.
Step 5 – Seal the Stone Porch
Clean the entire porch with water, mild detergent, and a brush. Rinse the residue from the surface and let the moisture evaporate completely before applying the sealer. Read the instructions on the stone sealer before proceeding. Apply the sealer thickly and evenly on the stone porch and let it cure for about 72 hours.
