To improve the look of a concrete slab porch, and raise the level of the porch floor to keep rainwater from pooling, a layer of solid brick pavers can be added on top of the existing slab. Here’s how to go about it:
- Jack up the porch roof and remove the columns resting on the slab.
- Install temporary supports for the roof on the ground outside the slab.
- Clean the surface of the slab to remove any dirt.
- Lay an outer band of brick pavers (called a soldier course) in a bed of mortar perpendicular to the porch, aligning it with a string to make sure the course is level.
- Lay a course of bricks in a bed of mortar next to the house, aligning it with a string to level it lengthwise on the porch. Check to make sure the house course is higher than the soldier course, so the porch will drain properly.
- Set the remaining courses of brick pavers in a bed of mortar, making sure the space between the bricks is uniform.
- Use a grout bag filled with mortar to fill the joints between the bricks.
- Trowel the mortar in the joints smooth.
- Use a brush to remove any excess mortar.
- Cut the columns to the new length.
- Position the columns in place, and use a jack to lower the roof.
Watch the video above to find out more.
Further Information
- Installing a Fiberglass Porch Column (video/article)
- How to Lay a Paver Patio (video/article)
- How to Lay a Brick Paver Patio in Your Yard (video)