Cleaning the Concrete Surface

What happens in this clip

Before any application, thoroughly clean the existing concrete steps. Use a stiff wire brush to aggressively scrub away any loose dirt, debris, efflorescence, or flaking paint. Follow this with a powerful pressure washer to completely rinse the surface, ensuring it is free of all contaminants and ready for the next steps. Adequate cleaning is crucial for proper adhesion.

Goal: Prepare the concrete steps for product application by cleaning.

What's used

Tools

• Pressure washer
• less effective)
• Safety glasses
• Wire brush
• Angle grinder with wire wheel attachment (for tougher spots)

About the full video

This project guides you through the process of transforming existing concrete steps into an attractive faux stone finish using a polymer-modified mortar. It covers all stages from initial cleaning and priming to applying multiple coats of mortar, creating a realistic stone pattern, detailing the texture, and finally sealing the steps for durability and aesthetic appeal.

Step 1 of 6: Clean Concrete Stairs

Use a stiff brush or broom to sweep away loose debris. For stubborn stains or grease, a concrete cleaner and degreaser, applied according to the product's instructions, will be necessary. Rinse the stairs thoroughly with water and allow them to dry completely. A wet-dry vacuum can help speed up the drying process by removing excess water.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Carpet Treads on Concrete Basement Stairs

1. Step 1: Clean Concrete Stairs

   • 1:19–2:05 Cleaning the Concrete Surface (this video)
   • 1:13–1:50 Apply Cleaner to Stairs
   • 0:00–0:01 Prepare Concrete Stairs

2. Step 2: Measure and Mark Treads

   • 0:12–0:57 Measure and Cut Carpet Tread
   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 7:20–9:07 Measure and Cut Carpet

3. Step 3: Cut Carpet Treads

   • 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces
   • 3:07–3:56 Plan and Cut Carpet Pieces
   • 0:37–0:59 Measure and Cut Carpet

4. Step 4: Apply Adhesive

   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
   • 0:09–0:25 Apply Flooring Adhesive
   • 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs

5. Step 5: Install Carpet Treads

   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 0:59–2:07 Install First Stair Tread
   • 3:25–4:32 Secure Treads to Stairs

6. Step 6: Allow Adhesive to Cure

   • 3:06–3:19 Project Completion
   • 3:44–4:26 Final Curing and Caulking
   • 0:31–0:38 Inspect and Finish Installation