Restoring Safety & Stability to St. Francis Church Walkway and Steps
Challenge
The Challenge: A Failing Walkway Posing a Safety Hazard
St. Francis Church has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly a century, carrying deep historical and emotional significance for its aging congregation. Vince, a long-time parishioner whose family has ties to the church dating back to 1935, raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of the walkway and steps leading from the Parish Hall parking lot to the sanctuary.
Over the years, the concrete had significantly settled, creating uneven surfaces and potential tripping hazards. The issue became particularly pressing during funerals when parishioners frequently used the walkway. Additionally, concerns about soil washout beneath the concrete flatwork at the front steps raised alarms about the potential for a catastrophic collapse. Given the elderly demographic of the churchgoers, safety was a primary concern, and a solution was needed before a major incident occurred.
Investigation & Root Cause Analysis
During our initial assessment, Vince speculated that a failed underground drain tile system, originally installed to divert rainwater, was the cause of the ongoing washout. However, through a secondary visit and water testing with a hose, we determined that both the North and South drain tile systems were still functioning properly. This finding shifted the focus to addressing the structural integrity of the concrete itself rather than replacing the drainage system.
Solution
The Solution: Preventative Maintenance to Avoid Costly Replacement
Understanding the urgency of the situation and the church’s limited resources, we proposed a proactive repair approach using:
✅ PolyLEVEL™ – A high-density polyurethane foam injection system to lift and stabilize the sunken concrete, eliminating trip hazards and preventing further settling.
✅ NexusPro™ – A high-quality joint and crack sealant to prevent water intrusion and future deterioration.
✅ SealantPro™ – A long-term concrete sealing solution to protect surfaces from moisture penetration and wear.
We recommended a 3-part CPS solution to reinforce both the walkway and the front entrance steps, ensuring longevity and preventing costly replacements down the road.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the primary concerns was the veneered surface coating on the sanctuary steps, which might not fully accept SealantPro™. Vince acknowledged this risk and agreed to proceed with the work, understanding that power washing might result in some veneer detachment. His main priority was ensuring safety and longevity over cosmetic perfection.
The Outcome: A Safer, More Secure Church Entrance
By addressing the issue now, St. Francis Church not only prevented a potential structural failure but also provided peace of mind to its congregation. The repair project successfully:
✔️ Eliminated trip hazards by leveling the walkway and steps.
✔️ Prevented further washout with crack sealing and concrete protection.
✔️ Extended the lifespan of existing structures without the high cost of total replacement.
Why Addressing Concrete Settlement Early Matters
Delaying necessary repairs can lead to exponentially higher replacement costs down the road. More importantly, ignoring a known hazard puts the safety of parishioners at risk. Proactive solutions like PolyLevel™ and NexusPro™ provide cost-effective, long-term protection—a much smarter investment than waiting for failure.
Need a Similar Concrete Repair? Contact Us Today!
If your church, business, or home is experiencing sinking concrete, cracks, or washout issues, don’t wait until it’s too late! Our advanced concrete stabilization solutions can restore safety and prevent costly replacements.
📞 Call Redeemers Group today for a free inspection and consultation!
Project Summary
Team Lead: Dalton
