Being a DIYer for years, I really appreciate that you're willingness to jump right in and do things you've never done before. You desreve a lot of credit for the things you accomplish!
Hi Jen I drive and deliver concrete for over 11 years now. When we’re pouring steps we pour into the forms filling them completely. Whoever built those steps cheaped out and filled most of it with aggregate and other debris so they only had to purchase enough concrete to finish filling the forms. At first I thought those round things were old weights from a gym lmao. The steps look way better now. Great job Jenn 👍🏼
I think it's just the high end jobs that use solid concrete. Most steps like that have rubble in the center with concrete poured over. maybe a bit thicker concrete than that one though.
It's called backfill , I've never seen steps or porches poured solid , the things she's finding is discarded items from the original build , been building houses for 30 yrs , there's no code for solid concrete steps , just the regulated thickness and form set
@@billaswangkapre1656 we do mostly commercial and industrial buildings and very little residential jobs. At the school we poured concrete the steps were filled with concrete and the slump was dry so it would stack in the forms. I’m sure residential jobs are coded differently
@@georgeharper2302 i contract residential and gov scale contracts , same codes for everything , I'm also licensed in 5 states and after the first of the year I'm picking up Illinois also , we do form and pour , framing , electrical , plumbing , drywall , painting, interior trim , cabinetry , roofing and windows , we contract 5000 gov units a year not counting residential
Minimum concrete for those steps should be 5 inches. Because there is no slope on them, in the fall months and over the many decades, water has seeped through the concrete washing away the aggregate/backfill. When those steps started to crack, past homeowners went to the local hardware and were told to paint them. These stairs were not done by a concrete company at all!
Being a retired concrete contractor, all could do was laugh when you started. But you kept at it. I was impressed with the end result. The whole job looked good especially after you painted.
So proud of you Jennifer. I am 69 1/2 yrs old and have been doing projects like you for 30 yrs. plus. Just diving in. My crew of 2 gals (my best friends) called me Barb Vila after Bob Vila the contractor. Keep it up girl!
Given the texture of the wall of the stairs before hand, it looks like she put more care in to her work then the original people did. The finished product is amazing!
I suspect back when this was built, they just tossed all sorts of fill/junk/detritus in there as filler. It's not super uncommon to find sand and gravel and other nonsense inside. I've seen broken bricks, rocks, loose rebar etc inside this sort of structure. Nice job even giving this a go. Even nicer that you got it done. Waves from Chesco PA
Yes you're right, fill is common. I have seen all kinds of weird stuff around here in western PA. A lot was from the mills back in the day, mainly slag.
I’ve demoed some steps and porch’s that was full of shingles where they tore off the roof of there house then poured concrete on top best find was a old Evinrude boat motor lol
Thanks, Frank! Also just checked out your channel. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with the RUclips world. People like you are the reason I am able to even attempt any of these projects myself.
You, my lady, are a force of nature! Great job on the steps! I have same problem with my front & back porch. After watching how you attacked this job, I realize that, at 77 years old, I would not have the stamina or patience to do this job anywhere near as good as you did. You tackled a job that most people wouldn't even attempt to start. Subscribed.
Nice job! The steps turned out way better than I was expecting... and the best part is that having results like that give you a boost of confidence for your next projects! You are an inspiration to young ladies everywhere!
I don’t know where you received your work ethic from, but someone has taught you very well. It is so nice to see, and so refreshing to see you hard at work. This younger generation could learn a lot by watching you work and learning to follow in your footsteps. God bless everything that you do.😊
Jennifer, you should be proud of the exceptionally wonderful job you did on your cement steps/porch! I love your ability to stick with a DIY job, and you have an infectious smile which lights up the screen! Well done, Jennifer!
Jen, you are a female master of all trades.I know it's a PITA and time consuming but if you made a video every couple of days, your channel would grow exponentially.
You really did a good job. Concrete work is hard work. Anyone who has ever done it will tell you. But you stayed with it until it was done and you didn't throw in the trowel. Okay, bad joke. 😂
I need to fix a single concrete step from my garage to our mud room. I google how to do this and found your video, entertaining and inspiring, to be honest with you. I can handle plumbing, electrical work, and installing house items. Never worked with concrete at all. I had an idea, but I wanted to check if it was right. Kudos to you for being a doer (like my wife).
You did a great job!!! My dad had a quintuple bypass in 2009. He's done really well with it, more active now than ever. Speedy recovery for your pops!!!
A job well done Jen !! I must admit - I was a bit worried when you started pulling all the fill out! but you soon took control and ended up making a great job of it... Nice work !!
@@itsmephil2255 baahahaahahahah good one, Phil 😂😂😂! I’ve done my fair share of projects over the years but most of them have gone like these vids or worse. The end result always seems to be good enough, but the journey getting there is laughable most of the time lol. Only wish I started filming them sooner. The kitchen specifically was a riot.
Great job Jen, we knew you wouldn't let us down! The paint job was the icing on the cake. Glad your dad is doing great after his bypass surgery also. 😉
Your courage and work ethic really impressed this retired concrete contractor. You are a credit to your generation. Keep up the great work kid and just know that this new subscriber is rooting hard for your success.
The round objects are grinding wheels, put in as fill so they didn't need as much concrete. Sand and gravel can be used as fill, but the concrete should have been MUCH thicker.
Ha ha ha ha! NO, they are not. Pretty creative, but no they are concrete for a start. Used as a surround for small trees. Tree grows big, breaks the ring. The final purpose you are correct on.👍
I was a construction contract manager for many years and good on you for giving this a go. One thing I would say though, there comes a time in every built objects life when it needs to go and these steps were pretty close. If you're going to keep doing work like this I would suggest getting to know a few key trades people locally you can trust and don't be afraid to draft them in when you need advice or help. One way to vibrate a small former like that is to use a hammer drill and a sacrificial piece of timber agaist the form, the vibration will wotk like a concrete poker.
Got a broken triangle of concrete at the front edge of the driveway. Had it for a couple years now. I've gone back and forth...contractor, DIY...contractor, DIY. I watched several videos to learn how to do it, but this one (plus a $600 quote from a local handyman a couple days ago...) got me to go to HD today to pick up an 80 lb bag of high strength Sakrete, concrete adhesive, a trowel, and of course....sponges! I really didn't think you were going to get the sides/corners to work (being vertical and all...), but sonofagun, you pulled it off. Grit, determination, and A LOT of work. Well done.
Loved the video! So cool that you never give up. Hope to see your next project sooner than later! 👍 My whole family enjoyed watching how you fixed these crumbling stairs. You did make it look easy even with how horrible it looked at the beginning! Please please post more soon. Your RUclips channel is the bomb! ❤ Also, Glad to hear your Dad is doing Well.
I did not think the result would have looked as good as it did. You should be very proud. It looks great and blends incredibly. I do love you’re willingness to take on the projects you do. So many people are not willing to try.
First time viewing ur video today, please, please never loose that curiosity and willingness to explore and learn. Every craftsman and craftswoman started out life not even knowing how to talk, walk and feed themselves. U go girl !!!!!!!
Great job Jenn! This is a job I call 'patch and match' I learned everything about masonry from watching Mike Haduck on RUclips. He is also from PA and he did mention how back in the old days they just used whatever they found as filler (coal, seashells, demolition debris, etc). In the winter, don't use rock salt on concrete as it accelerates cracking. Use calcium chloride or preferably sand which is safe for dogs and pets.
What an amazing transformation! I kept expecting you to start swinging the sledgehammer and demolish the entire thing and start over. It looks to me as if the original builder just filled most of the interior of those steps with dirt and construction debris. Cudos to you for having the courage to take on a job like that. The finished result may only last a few more years, but it certainly looks great.
Thank you! If it lasts for a couple of years, I would say that’s a win to me. If I didn’t have to get a permit to remove the steps and build new wooden steps like I did in the front of the house I would have considered that option.
You have a relentless spirit, Jennifer. The situation looked sketchy for a little while; but, you're a sleeper; and pulled off a fantastic job!! Great work 👍👍
That whole staircase and landing is a complete tearout situation, and replaced with a new wooden or composite deck. Big job , but you can handle it Jen. The thing about homeownership is that the home improvements never end! 😄
Hi Jenn, I give you straight A's for effort. I like your determination to tackle any job and get it done. The steps really look great. I enjoy watching all of your videos, thank you for your hard work, Your an Awesome lady.
Good job. Nice voice too. Don’t be hard on yourself, the world will do that for you. Strive for perfection but be content with accomplishments. Glad your dad is well after that!
Looks great. Thanks for sharing. You are a joy to watch and you always seem to stay positive. I really enjoy your editing. Glad your Dad is doing fine.
The end results were absolutely awesome. Watching the process of all your endeavors to get there was really entertaining. Glad your dad is doing OK. When you mentioned "slump" and vibrating to fill the voids, I was blown away. I hope the YT videos you watched on doing this work were as entertaining and fun to watch as this one.
It's so nice to see you back and doing some needed work to your place. I like how you do things yourself as best you can, more videos please and what's your next job, lol. I think you done great in concreting repair to your steps and side wall, good job.
Thanks, John! I have a few things in mind, but I am leaning towards attempting to do an automotive job next, so long as Chris is willing to supervise me again lol
Not sure if this will translate well but in the UK we would call that a PROPER JOB meaning WOW, fantastic. I am currently recovering from a Triple Bypass and Aortic valve replacement. Has mad a lot of difference to my life but quite a long recovery for me. Please pass my best wishes for a speedy recovery on to your Dad for me.
Those white things you pulled out are called fire cones that are used in a pottery kiln. They are put in a piece of clay standing upright. They melt and bed over when the kiln reaches a certain temperature and let's the Potter know when the glazed pottery has reach th right temperature and to turn the gas fired kiln off. Larry D
You are amazing in your willingness to tackle those stairs! At first, i was thinking no chance. You did a great job and you can be proud of your work. Well done and well played!
I've been an chief estimator / senior project manager in commercial construction for over 15 years and you have done 100% better than anything I could do! :)
I've got to say Jen.. you handled that 80 lb bag of concrete mix like a boss! Especially walking up the stairs with it, that's not easy. Great video, love the way you push through the frustration, and just get s*** done!
Haha thanks so much, Danny. It sure was heavy! If the hardware store had still been open, I would have went back and got a couple more 60 pound bags, but I was desperate at that point, so I had no choice lol.
Excellent job and video! I didn't have much faith in you at the start, but you are very persistent and that's why it turned out so well. CONGRATS! Hope to see more like this. Chris is one lucky guy!
Thank you so much! I had very little faith as well lol. Honestly, shocked that it looked even remotely normal at the end. Thanks for checking out the video.
Just discovered your videos. Great job on your stairs. Years ago I took out booth my front and back concrete stoops. I rented a electric jack hammer. The front was easy as I hit a air pocket in the middle but the back in the middle was half of an old bed springs. Had to use hack saw to cut it apart. I replaced both with wooden porches. Keep up the good work. 😉
That 80# bag of concrete was a different brand and formulation of concrete than the first two 60# bags. They make a variety of types that set faster or cure stronger depending on your needs. It may have been workable a little longer with a little more water, but you really made it work, all things considered. Great job! Love watching you figure stuff out and get it done, even if it takes a couple of tries. Always like seeing new stuff from you and Chris. Looking forward to a lot more to come from you both. And congrats on your dad's great outcome--one of my friend's fathers had the same procedure done and felt great after recovery...like he was 18 again as far as his energy.
From Auckland, New Zealand. Well done, Jen. It really gives me a boost to my day seeing a layman accomplish something so unfamiliar. Really proud of you :)
Jen, while you were applying the concrete, I thought it was going to look terrible, and I apologize for that. It looks fantastic. You did an amazing job. You are turning into a great home improvement gal.
You are making me laugh and cry but you are keeping it real and I love that! I hate watching people with all things going perfect it’s just not the way things go for the most part. I feel people can learn from your mistakes and accomplishments so thanks
No, the forms should come off so you can trowel front of steps and sides. The concrete needed quite a bit more water when you were pouring it so it will fill the form. You can hit the form with the hammer to get out air pockets and bubbles. I poured a long step once and knew to hammer form to get out air pockets and bubbles. If concrete is wetter it may take a little longer to dry but it will fill all holes around stones good and leave time if you add rebar.❤I love your indomitable spirit of never giving up! It looks good.
Hi. Boy, that didn’t start out looking like it was gonna go too easy at all. The forms gave you a bit of trouble. I didn’t think it was possible without attaching the forms. You really impressed me hanging in there and figuring out everything as it came. Great job on patching and sponging! Paint looks great! So glad I watched. See ya next time.😊
I actually did some steps very much like yours this summer. And also watched many videos. Probably the same ones you did. Couldn't believe all the sand and gravel inside. Was only able to get one screw in the cement for added support. Laughed at that. If there was anything more that could of helped would be to mist with water the area when applying cement. Sticks better. But great job. You hung in there and got it looking so much better.
Hi Jen, your job looks really really good I don’t think I could’ve done any better. My name is Rob I live in Australia I’m 67 years old. I hope your dad’s fine now with his triple pass on his heart and it really gets to my heart when you tell Chris and your parents that you love them Well done well done young lady 😊
You are just the coolest human being Jen. You need to be on a TV show somewhere for sure. And again can’t say this enough and I’m sure you hear all the time, your voice is not if this earth 😂. Thanks so much for your vids
That looks a lot better now. Its great to see that you are not frightened to give these jobs a go. Its the only way to learn new skills. Keep it up Girl.
Hell yeah! I am very proud of you Jen! 👍 You absolutely do not give up , and to be honest with you I would have given up and would have build a new deck and stairs out of wood over all of that. But you got the job done and it looks fantastic! It takes some wicked skills to make the new work blend in with the old. 😉 It has been a while since I have laughed so much and so hard 😂 , but I was not laughing at you , I was laughing with you. ☺.. Thanks for the awesome video and thanks for sharing with us. Has anybody told you today how AWESOME you are? Well you're awesome! 🥇🏁
Good job ! Next time you paint outside steps there is an ingredient you can add to the paint that will make the stair treads and porch slip resistant ! Its called ESTRA GRIP ,mix it right into the paint !
This was so great! I watched this because I'm contemplating doing the same kind of repair, although my steps are not nearly as bad of shape as yours were. I admire you for just going for it and sticking with it until you finished the project! Great work!! The end result was fantastic!
Your awesome I got both my daughters following you getting what you need done and learning in the process! You and NNKH are rad keep up the great content!❤
Nice work Jen. I admire your determination to jump into a new project you're not experienced with in and learn by doing! I've never done concrete beyond paver forms or setting posts so I wouldn't have known what to expect or what to do in that situation. That being said I can't believe the amount of dirt and rocks that was in there, there's no way that can be right...
Your drive and interest in doing all these repairs and maintenance things on your own always fascinates me. I like being able to participate in the learning process and discoveries. I’ve seen concrete and brick walls in gardens filled in with sand, that’s not necessarily wrong. But the sand inside was clean, mostly dry and definitely had no inhabitants. 😂 Maybe there used to be something before and the stairs were built on top of whatever that used to be. Or someone compacted a heap of sand and dirt and built the stairs on top of that? Looks like someone did a dirt cheap job. What would worry me is all the cracks on the wall side, where moisture gets into your basement walls. Good that your dad went to the hospital. As it turned out, mine decided to ignore a few minor strokes until a big one happened and turned him from a former carpenter and later architect into a half deaf, memory losing vegetable with the temper tantrums of a little boy.
I’m really sorry to hear about your dad. I wish he had gone to get checked sooner. That’s a real shame to hear. I feel very blessed that my dad is ok. Thanks for your comment and watching the video!
I love your videos! Great job on your own repair. You did wonderful and a professional job. Side note, don’t get rid of that civic because that’s been your partner in a lot of your projects. 😂 I love how you just make things work with what you have. ❤
I used to go on long walks with all 3 of my cats they loved the adventure. I think you did an amazing job on this stairway. Better than I could have done! I have a habit of doing so much research and studying to make sure that I understand completely how to do the job. I so admire your ability to just jump right in and get it done! Your video was also just plain fun to watch! Love your sense of humor and overall personality; and you can sing! Kudos!!
The round things in your steps are old grind stones probably from a Blanchard grinder. They used them to fill in and take up volume so it would use less concrete when they pored the steps. I would remove that entire thing and start over. Great job though 👏 👌
I think you're right, at least in general. The only stones I've seen for a Blanchard grinder were arc-segments where maybe 6 or 8 stones were mounted to make a segmented circle. But I've only every been around a single Blanchard so my experience is limited. Definitely grind stones of some sort.
Excellent repair Jenn, every repair is a challenge, love the way you improvise , adapt, and overcome. You saved the porch will get another 10-20 yrs. You go Girl 🎉❤🎶👏👏💥🌟💪🐻
Before the days of precast concrete stairways were built on top of fill and rubble from the worksite. Yours are not out of the ordinary for the time period that they were obviously built in. As you found out, the fill was used as a form, per se, to reduce the amount of concrete needed to make the stairs. 😁
I came for ideas on home to repair my concrete steps, but left with how I'm gonna trim my trees next summer. Your steps looks great now. Thanks for the entertainment and inspiration.
I really like that music you picked for the way you started.that job it blends on with the curiosity of you trying to figure out how just how to go about about what you want to do it😮
WOW, you amaze me Jen with your tenacity and your strong capabilities. Plus you are funny and have cute and beautiful expressions. You are also a beautiful doll to look at.
SO PROUD OF YOU! You did a true DIY with total transparency. I literally have to fix my concrete steps now and you just gave me the encouragement I can do this.
loved this whole video. That's me...doing it all wrong, too, but feeling so good about end results after hard work and trying all new things (But I'm doing it at 61 years old as we fix up our 100 year old house).
It's nice to see a woman being able to try and accomplish jobs that are usually done by men. If a woman wants to make a lot of money she should go into electrical or plumbing right out of school or even before school. They have those vocational schools. I did in maintenance and I done industrial, commercial and residential maintenance until my back gave out 4 years ago. I'm 56 and was still learning. Just think what you will know when you hit 50. You've done a great job today and brightened mine
![SESI MADANI MENDENGAR [KELANTAN] - Dialog bersama YB Menteri Ekonomi](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dfv3xLwqd1I/mqdefault.jpg)
Being a DIYer for years, I really appreciate that you're willingness to jump right in and do things you've never done before. You desreve a lot of credit for the things you accomplish!
I appreciate that! Thank you!
Grammar is clearly not your friend.
@@jumpinjojoReally 🤦♂️
beloved, put some concrete sealer on it. One or two coats…. 😊
Think chicken wire, cut to size
Hi Jen I drive and deliver concrete for over 11 years now. When we’re pouring steps we pour into the forms filling them completely. Whoever built those steps cheaped out and filled most of it with aggregate and other debris so they only had to purchase enough concrete to finish filling the forms. At first I thought those round things were old weights from a gym lmao. The steps look way better now. Great job Jenn 👍🏼
I think it's just the high end jobs that use solid concrete. Most steps like that have rubble in the center with concrete poured over. maybe a bit thicker concrete than that one though.
It's called backfill , I've never seen steps or porches poured solid , the things she's finding is discarded items from the original build , been building houses for 30 yrs , there's no code for solid concrete steps , just the regulated thickness and form set
@@billaswangkapre1656 we do mostly commercial and industrial buildings and very little residential jobs. At the school we poured concrete the steps were filled with concrete and the slump was dry so it would stack in the forms. I’m sure residential jobs are coded differently
@@georgeharper2302 i contract residential and gov scale contracts , same codes for everything , I'm also licensed in 5 states and after the first of the year I'm picking up Illinois also , we do form and pour , framing , electrical , plumbing , drywall , painting, interior trim , cabinetry , roofing and windows , we contract 5000 gov units a year not counting residential
Minimum concrete for those steps should be 5 inches. Because there is no slope on them, in the fall months and over the many decades, water has seeped through the concrete washing away the aggregate/backfill. When those steps started to crack, past homeowners went to the local hardware and were told to paint them.
These stairs were not done by a concrete company at all!
Being a retired concrete contractor, all could do was laugh when you started. But you kept at it. I was impressed with the end result. The whole job looked good especially after you painted.
Please wear a respirator next time. That concrete dust is no joke in your lungs.
I'm in the business of repairs.
Your statement...
" If I make it look perfect, it won't match the rest of it"
Is pure fucking GOLD!!!
It's funny and somewhat comforting to see other people struggle exactly with the same things I do. You should be proud!
So proud of you Jennifer. I am 69 1/2 yrs old and have been doing projects like you for 30 yrs. plus. Just diving in. My crew of 2 gals (my best friends) called me Barb Vila after Bob Vila the contractor. Keep it up girl!
Haha “Barb Vila!” I love it. Sounds like you earned that nickname! So cool you tackle your own projects.
are you seeing any;one ?
Jen ,don't ever feel like your viewers are laughing. You are such an inspiration to young girls. There is nothing you won't try. You are amazing !!!!
Also an inspiration to some of us grown men - putting me to shame.
We're laughing with you, not at you :)
Young girls?? I'm a 65 year old man, and I'm inspired!
Given the texture of the wall of the stairs before hand, it looks like she put more care in to her work then the original people did. The finished product is amazing!
Jennifer it's real refreshing to see a non expert working on projects. Rhank you.
You never cease to amaze us with your drive, spirit and positive attitude. Hope your dad is recovering well.
I suspect back when this was built, they just tossed all sorts of fill/junk/detritus in there as filler. It's not super uncommon to find sand and gravel and other nonsense inside. I've seen broken bricks, rocks, loose rebar etc inside this sort of structure. Nice job even giving this a go. Even nicer that you got it done. Waves from Chesco PA
Yes you're right, fill is common. I have seen all kinds of weird stuff around here in western PA. A lot was from the mills back in the day, mainly slag.
I’ve demoed some steps and porch’s that was full of shingles where they tore off the roof of there house then poured concrete on top best find was a old Evinrude boat motor lol
The look like fossilized claws from some sloth like burrowing creature. You should contact your local university to get them identified.
Thanks, Frank! Also just checked out your channel. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with the RUclips world. People like you are the reason I am able to even attempt any of these projects myself.
Nearly all of the time its full of sand or gravel since there’s no need to make it a solid 6x6 block of concrete.
You, my lady, are a force of nature! Great job on the steps! I have same problem with my front & back porch. After watching how you attacked this job, I realize that, at 77 years old, I would not have the stamina or patience to do this job anywhere near as good as you did. You tackled a job that most people wouldn't even attempt to start. Subscribed.
Nice job! The steps turned out way better than I was expecting... and the best part is that having results like that give you a boost of confidence for your next projects! You are an inspiration to young ladies everywhere!
I don’t know where you received your work ethic from, but someone has taught you very well. It is so nice to see, and so refreshing to see you hard at work. This younger generation could learn a lot by watching you work and learning to follow in your footsteps. God bless everything that you do.😊
That looks awesome now. Nice job! 😎
Jennifer, you should be proud of the exceptionally wonderful job you did on your cement steps/porch!
I love your ability to stick with a DIY job, and you have an infectious smile which lights up the screen!
Well done, Jennifer!
As somebody that used to pour cement forms and installs cement steps in people's homes.
You did a great job jen!! 👍🏼🇨🇦
Wow, thanks so much for saying that!
Jen, you are a female master of all trades.I know it's a PITA and time consuming but if you made a video every couple of days, your channel would grow exponentially.
Yay another Jenn project! I got high respect for you girl. Your can-do spirit is a pleasure to watch.
I 2nd that
Thank you, Kevin! And Phil 😊!
@@jennifersugint you rock Jen 👍
Agree 100%
You really did a good job. Concrete work is hard work. Anyone who has ever done it will tell you. But you stayed with it until it was done and you didn't throw in the trowel. Okay, bad joke. 😂
I need to fix a single concrete step from my garage to our mud room. I google how to do this and found your video, entertaining and inspiring, to be honest with you. I can handle plumbing, electrical work, and installing house items. Never worked with concrete at all. I had an idea, but I wanted to check if it was right. Kudos to you for being a doer (like my wife).
For some that has never done concrete work, you did pretty damn good! Way to go Jen!🎉🎊
You did a great job!!!
My dad had a quintuple bypass in 2009. He's done really well with it, more active now than ever. Speedy recovery for your pops!!!
Thank you! Glad your dad is also doing well!
You have a great singing voice. Great job on the steps. Turned out great 👍
A job well done Jen !! I must admit - I was a bit worried when you started pulling all the fill out! but you soon took control and ended up making a great job of it... Nice work !!
I suspect that Jen is actually a registered contractor and she just pretends to be bad at D.I.Y.😂😂
I was worried the whole time 😂😂😂.
@@itsmephil2255 baahahaahahahah good one, Phil 😂😂😂! I’ve done my fair share of projects over the years but most of them have gone like these vids or worse. The end result always seems to be good enough, but the journey getting there is laughable most of the time lol. Only wish I started filming them sooner. The kitchen specifically was a riot.
@@jennifersugint you better keep them coming Jen......they are awesome 🫶
Great job Jen, we knew you wouldn't let us down! The paint job was the icing on the cake. Glad your dad is doing great after his bypass surgery also. 😉
Your courage and work ethic really impressed this retired concrete contractor. You are a credit to your generation. Keep up the great work kid and just know that this new subscriber is rooting hard for your success.
The round objects are grinding wheels, put in as fill so they didn't need as much concrete. Sand and gravel can be used as fill, but the concrete should have been MUCH thicker.
Ha ha ha ha! NO, they are not. Pretty creative, but no they are concrete for a start. Used as a surround for small trees. Tree grows big, breaks the ring. The final purpose you are correct on.👍
Yeah, looks like it.
I think you did a beautiful job for what you had to work with.
I was a construction contract manager for many years and good on you for giving this a go. One thing I would say though, there comes a time in every built objects life when it needs to go and these steps were pretty close. If you're going to keep doing work like this I would suggest getting to know a few key trades people locally you can trust and don't be afraid to draft them in when you need advice or help. One way to vibrate a small former like that is to use a hammer drill and a sacrificial piece of timber agaist the form, the vibration will wotk like a concrete poker.
Wow Thank you! I needed that tip myself! I was thinking a massage gun would work but hammer drill waaayyyy better🤩
Много некадърна жена! Пълна смотанячка
Got a broken triangle of concrete at the front edge of the driveway. Had it for a couple years now. I've gone back and forth...contractor, DIY...contractor, DIY. I watched several videos to learn how to do it, but this one (plus a $600 quote from a local handyman a couple days ago...) got me to go to HD today to pick up an 80 lb bag of high strength Sakrete, concrete adhesive, a trowel, and of course....sponges! I really didn't think you were going to get the sides/corners to work (being vertical and all...), but sonofagun, you pulled it off. Grit, determination, and A LOT of work. Well done.
Good luck with your project!! Even if it doesn’t go as planned it’s worth trying
Loved the video! So cool that you never give up. Hope to see your next project sooner than later! 👍 My whole family enjoyed watching how you fixed these crumbling stairs. You did make it look easy even with how horrible it looked at the beginning! Please please post more soon. Your RUclips channel is the bomb! ❤ Also, Glad to hear your Dad is doing Well.
Wow thanks so much. Made my day. So glad to hear you and your family enjoyed watching. It’s the reason I keep at it honestly.
I did not think the result would have looked as good as it did. You should be very proud. It looks great and blends incredibly. I do love you’re willingness to take on the projects you do. So many people are not willing to try.
First time viewing ur video today, please, please never loose that curiosity and willingness to explore and learn. Every craftsman and craftswoman started out life not even knowing how to talk, walk and feed themselves. U go girl !!!!!!!
Great job Jenn! This is a job I call 'patch and match'
I learned everything about masonry from watching Mike Haduck on RUclips. He is also from PA and he did mention how back in the old days they just used whatever they found as filler (coal, seashells, demolition debris, etc). In the winter, don't use rock salt on concrete as it accelerates cracking. Use calcium chloride or preferably sand which is safe for dogs and pets.
What an amazing transformation! I kept expecting you to start swinging the sledgehammer and demolish the entire thing and start over. It looks to me as if the original builder just filled most of the interior of those steps with dirt and construction debris. Cudos to you for having the courage to take on a job like that. The finished result may only last a few more years, but it certainly looks great.
Thank you! If it lasts for a couple of years, I would say that’s a win to me. If I didn’t have to get a permit to remove the steps and build new wooden steps like I did in the front of the house I would have considered that option.
Don’t be discouraged I think you did a great job 👏 at least you’re trying and willing to do it…Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺
You have a relentless spirit, Jennifer. The situation looked sketchy for a little while; but, you're a sleeper; and pulled off a fantastic job!! Great work 👍👍
That whole staircase and landing is a complete tearout situation, and replaced with a new wooden or composite deck. Big job , but you can handle it Jen.
The thing about homeownership is that the home improvements never end! 😄
I love your practical ingenuity. It gives me more confidence as a female diy-er that my "crazy" ideas might not be so bad after all.
I admire your dedication! Masonry is quite difficult, and to start with a stair, wow. Well done Jen!
Hi Jenn, I give you straight A's for effort. I like your determination to tackle any job and get it done. The steps really look great. I enjoy watching all of your videos, thank you for your hard work, Your an Awesome lady.
Good job. Nice voice too. Don’t be hard on yourself, the world will do that for you. Strive for perfection but be content with accomplishments. Glad your dad is well after that!
Looks great. Thanks for sharing. You are a joy to watch and you always seem to stay positive. I really enjoy your editing. Glad your Dad is doing fine.
I appreciate that! And also thanks, about my dad. I am so glad he is doing well too.
The end results were absolutely awesome. Watching the process of all your endeavors to get there was really entertaining. Glad your dad is doing OK. When you mentioned "slump" and vibrating to fill the voids, I was blown away. I hope the YT videos you watched on doing this work were as entertaining and fun to watch as this one.
Perseverance and patience = a wonderful outcome! Bravo to you! Well done, Jennifer. 😊
It's so nice to see you back and doing some needed work to your place. I like how you do things yourself as best you can, more videos please and what's your next job, lol. I think you done great in concreting repair to your steps and side wall, good job.
Thanks, John! I have a few things in mind, but I am leaning towards attempting to do an automotive job next, so long as Chris is willing to supervise me again lol
That looks great, Jen. Very nice clean looking job. Thanks for sharing!!
Thanks for watching!
Not sure if this will translate well but in the UK we would call that a PROPER JOB meaning WOW, fantastic.
I am currently recovering from a Triple Bypass and Aortic valve replacement. Has mad a lot of difference to my life but quite a long recovery for me. Please pass my best wishes for a speedy recovery on to your Dad for me.
Those white things you pulled out are called fire cones that are used in a pottery kiln. They are put in a piece of clay standing upright. They melt and bed over when the kiln reaches a certain temperature and let's the Potter know when the glazed pottery has reach th right temperature and to turn the gas fired kiln off.
Larry D
That's such amazing info. Hardly anyone would know this if it wasn't for the internet.
25:47 correct. Wish I had a nickel for everyone I've seen and handled since 1973.
You are amazing in your willingness to tackle those stairs! At first, i was thinking no chance.
You did a great job and you can be proud of your work. Well done and well played!
I've been an chief estimator / senior project manager in commercial construction for over 15 years and you have done 100% better than anything I could do! :)
I've got to say Jen.. you handled that 80 lb bag of concrete mix like a boss! Especially walking up the stairs with it, that's not easy. Great video, love the way you push through the frustration, and just get s*** done!
Haha thanks so much, Danny. It sure was heavy! If the hardware store had still been open, I would have went back and got a couple more 60 pound bags, but I was desperate at that point, so I had no choice lol.
Good job & FANTASTIC singing voice!!! ❤🎼🎶🎙
Excellent job and video! I didn't have much faith in you at the start, but you are very persistent and that's why it turned out so well. CONGRATS! Hope to see more like this. Chris is one lucky guy!
Thank you so much! I had very little faith as well lol. Honestly, shocked that it looked even remotely normal at the end. Thanks for checking out the video.
Just discovered your videos. Great job on your stairs. Years ago I took out booth my front and back concrete stoops. I rented a electric jack hammer. The front was easy as I hit a air pocket in the middle but the back in the middle was half of an old bed springs. Had to use hack saw to cut it apart. I replaced both with wooden porches. Keep up the good work. 😉
Love your attitude and willingness to do whatever is necessary to get the job done. It's always a pleasure to watch your videos and NNKH! Great job!
You did a great job if I could only get my grown sons to jump in on things like that! You go girl, great job!
Thanks, Johnny!
That 80# bag of concrete was a different brand and formulation of concrete than the first two 60# bags. They make a variety of types that set faster or cure stronger depending on your needs. It may have been workable a little longer with a little more water, but you really made it work, all things considered. Great job! Love watching you figure stuff out and get it done, even if it takes a couple of tries. Always like seeing new stuff from you and Chris. Looking forward to a lot more to come from you both. And congrats on your dad's great outcome--one of my friend's fathers had the same procedure done and felt great after recovery...like he was 18 again as far as his energy.
From Auckland, New Zealand. Well done, Jen. It really gives me a boost to my day seeing a layman accomplish something so unfamiliar. Really proud of you :)
Jen, while you were applying the concrete, I thought it was going to look terrible, and I apologize for that. It looks fantastic. You did an amazing job. You are turning into a great home improvement gal.
You dod extremely well. This is a completely relevant and reasonable repair. It looks fine and will definitely last a bit longer.
You are making me laugh and cry but you are keeping it real and I love that! I hate watching people with all things going perfect it’s just not the way things go for the most part. I feel people can learn from your mistakes and accomplishments so thanks
No, the forms should come off so you can trowel front of steps and sides. The concrete needed quite a bit more water when you were pouring it so it will fill the form. You can hit the form with the hammer to get out air pockets and bubbles. I poured a long step once and knew to hammer form to get out air pockets and bubbles. If concrete is wetter it may take a little longer to dry but it will fill all holes around stones good and leave time if you add rebar.❤I love your indomitable spirit of never giving up! It looks good.
I thoroughly enjoyed your can do spirit. Nice job figuring everything out on your own!
Hey Jen, I have to say, the steps look so much better, you did a amazing job. I love your videos, keep them coming
Hi. Boy, that didn’t start out looking like it was gonna go too easy at all. The forms gave you a bit of trouble. I didn’t think it was possible without attaching the forms. You really impressed me hanging in there and figuring out everything as it came. Great job on patching and sponging! Paint looks great! So glad I watched. See ya next time.😊
I actually did some steps very much like yours this summer. And also watched many videos. Probably the same ones you did. Couldn't believe all the sand and gravel inside. Was only able to get one screw in the cement for added support. Laughed at that. If there was anything more that could of helped would be to mist with water the area when applying cement. Sticks better. But great job. You hung in there and got it looking so much better.
Hi Jen, your job looks really really good I don’t think I could’ve done any better. My name is Rob I live in Australia I’m 67 years old. I hope your dad’s fine now with his triple pass on his heart and it really gets to my heart when you tell Chris and your parents that you love them Well done well done young lady 😊
You are just the coolest human being Jen. You need to be on a TV show somewhere for sure. And again can’t say this enough and I’m sure you hear all the time, your voice is not if this earth 😂. Thanks so much for your vids
She is! this is her TV show!
Watching this woman work is a pleasure..wow..
That looks a lot better now. Its great to see that you are not frightened to give these jobs a go. Its the only way to learn new skills. Keep it up Girl.
Hell yeah! I am very proud of you Jen! 👍 You absolutely do not give up , and to be honest with you I would have given up and would have build a new deck and stairs out of wood over all of that. But you got the job done and it looks fantastic! It takes some wicked skills to make the new work blend in with the old. 😉 It has been a while since I have laughed so much and so hard 😂 , but I was not laughing at you , I was laughing with you. ☺.. Thanks for the awesome video and thanks for sharing with us. Has anybody told you today how AWESOME you are? Well you're awesome! 🥇🏁
😂 haha thanks so much, Richard as always! So glad you were laughing along with me. Chris and I really appreciate your support!
Good job ! Next time you paint outside steps there is an ingredient you can add to the paint that will make the stair treads and porch slip resistant ! Its called ESTRA GRIP ,mix it right into the paint !
Or just add sand to paint.
@@keithmccloud4164 Was going to say the same thing.
Painted steps can be a deathtrap if not textured.
This was so great! I watched this because I'm contemplating doing the same kind of repair, although my steps are not nearly as bad of shape as yours were. I admire you for just going for it and sticking with it until you finished the project! Great work!! The end result was fantastic!
Your awesome I got both my daughters following you getting what you need done and learning in the process! You and NNKH are rad keep up the great content!❤
You’re awesome! Thanks, Michael!
Nice work Jen. I admire your determination to jump into a new project you're not experienced with in and learn by doing! I've never done concrete beyond paver forms or setting posts so I wouldn't have known what to expect or what to do in that situation. That being said I can't believe the amount of dirt and rocks that was in there, there's no way that can be right...
Your willingness to learn and your determination to do these jobs is impressive
Your drive and interest in doing all these repairs and maintenance things on your own always fascinates me. I like being able to participate in the learning process and discoveries.
I’ve seen concrete and brick walls in gardens filled in with sand, that’s not necessarily wrong. But the sand inside was clean, mostly dry and definitely had no inhabitants. 😂
Maybe there used to be something before and the stairs were built on top of whatever that used to be. Or someone compacted a heap of sand and dirt and built the stairs on top of that?
Looks like someone did a dirt cheap job.
What would worry me is all the cracks on the wall side, where moisture gets into your basement walls.
Good that your dad went to the hospital.
As it turned out, mine decided to ignore a few minor strokes until a big one happened and turned him from a former carpenter and later architect into a half deaf, memory losing vegetable with the temper tantrums of a little boy.
I’m really sorry to hear about your dad. I wish he had gone to get checked sooner. That’s a real shame to hear. I feel very blessed that my dad is ok. Thanks for your comment and watching the video!
I love your videos! Great job on your own repair. You did wonderful and a professional job. Side note, don’t get rid of that civic because that’s been your partner in a lot of your projects. 😂 I love how you just make things work with what you have. ❤
Big hello from Canada. I'm impressed! you got it done and it looks so much better.
I used to go on long walks with all 3 of my cats they loved the adventure. I think you did an amazing job on this stairway. Better than I could have done! I have a habit of doing so much research and studying to make sure that I understand completely how to do the job. I so admire your ability to just jump right in and get it done! Your video was also just plain fun to watch! Love your sense of humor and overall personality; and you can sing! Kudos!!
The round things in your steps are old grind stones probably from a Blanchard grinder. They used them to fill in and take up volume so it would use less concrete when they pored the steps. I would remove that entire thing and start over. Great job though 👏 👌
Thanks for the info!
I think you're right, at least in general. The only stones I've seen for a Blanchard grinder were arc-segments where maybe 6 or 8 stones were mounted to make a segmented circle. But I've only every been around a single Blanchard so my experience is limited. Definitely grind stones of some sort.
Excellent repair Jenn, every repair is a challenge, love the way you improvise , adapt, and overcome. You saved the porch will get another 10-20 yrs. You go Girl 🎉❤🎶👏👏💥🌟💪🐻
excuse the randomness but.. what's the last part of your username mean? tia
@@kendybar Hi Tia, Sorry no hidden meaning just what they attached to my name! Why what did you think it meant? 🤔
Before the days of precast concrete stairways were built on top of fill and rubble from the worksite. Yours are not out of the ordinary for the time period that they were obviously built in. As you found out, the fill was used as a form, per se, to reduce the amount of concrete needed to make the stairs. 😁
How are you still not married. I mean young, beautiful, independent, resourceful and drives a Civic. What not to love.
You really did a good job. That is not easy. Love the gray, just finish tweaking those 2 tops steps on the right and it will be GREAT. GREAT JOB!
I dunno but Chris might come by and try to pay you a $1000 bucks and title those crumbs and try parking it in your back yard, Yo?😂
Don’t take that out that’s the filler
Better not to have filler and just have solid better yet reinforce it.
Awesome job young lady!!! Unbelievably good for your first attempt on concreting.
I came for ideas on home to repair my concrete steps, but left with how I'm gonna trim my trees next summer. Your steps looks great now. Thanks for the entertainment and inspiration.
You have a new subscriber! I always have the upmost respect for any woman that fix her house and work on a car & boat. Keep the videos coming.
It's not just "better than it was...". You did an EXCELLENT job Jen. Hope to see more vision/content of your ventures/adventures.....
Jennifer you have done extremely well considering that arduous DIY job on your own.
I really like that music you picked for the way you started.that job it blends on with the curiosity of you trying to figure out how just how to go about about what you want to do it😮
Love your sense of adventure and willingness to just jump in. You will learn things that way you will never forget. Great stuff. They turned out great
WOW, you amaze me Jen with your tenacity and your strong capabilities.
Plus you are funny and have cute and beautiful expressions.
You are also a beautiful doll to look at.
SO PROUD OF YOU! You did a true DIY with total transparency. I literally have to fix my concrete steps now and you just gave me the encouragement I can do this.
Thank you and good luck on your project 🙂
I am so delighted the outcome was a success. Well done.
Wow! Talk about perseverance, you just kept battling through! Great job! 1000% improvement.
loved this whole video. That's me...doing it all wrong, too, but feeling so good about end results after hard work and trying all new things (But I'm doing it at 61 years old as we fix up our 100 year old house).
Well, persistence paid off. A blind man would be glad to see it, that's what my father would always say. I think you have done a great job.
You are adorable and have a great attitude. The best way to learn is the way you’re doing it. I always like to try and learn something new everyday. 😊
Great job on the steps! The color looks alot nicer. Awe so cute Turbo, Gus and the family taking a walk. Great video, thank you for sharing 😀
I give you credit for even trying and you saved money. It looks good! 💪🏼 God bless you, if there’s a way, there’s a will! 🙌🏼🙏
It's nice to see a woman being able to try and accomplish jobs that are usually done by men. If a woman wants to make a lot of money she should go into electrical or plumbing right out of school or even before school. They have those vocational schools. I did in maintenance and I done industrial, commercial and residential maintenance until my back gave out 4 years ago. I'm 56 and was still learning. Just think what you will know when you hit 50. You've done a great job today and brightened mine