[kirked]

The perimeter of my porch has bluestone tread. The length right in front of the front door, where you step up, has a slight "well" near the edge that holds water (about 2 feet long). Since the porch is on the north side of the house, it is sometimes very slow to dry. I'm concerned about icing in the winter as it couldn't be in a worse spot. The tread is pitched correctly and all other treads drain appropriately (porch is 25' long).

I'm thinking I could use an orbital grinder to smooth the outer edge a little to allow the pooling water to drain properly. I would appreciate any input as to whether this is a good/bad idea. I certainly don't want to ruin the look.

 

[Rockmonster]

Sanding or grinding will most definitely change the look.....you most likely have one of two finishes, natural cleft, or thermal finish. If it's thermal, this will be easier. If it was mine, I would probably cut a small channel, and then burn (thermal) the channel until it was fairly well blended in. Obviously, the choice of stone right there was less than perfect, but if you only have to remove say, 3 to 5/16", it shouldn't jump out at you. If you have natural cleft, this will change the look somewhat. And ideally, the burning should be done by someone who has done it before. Or at least have someone walk you through it. Can be a little tricky. Oxy/propane, oxy acetylene....hot burn, dampen the rock...This is how I would tackle it....good luck

 

[Rock Headed]

I agree with the monster--having not actually seen the porch in question, it certainly sounds like something a grinder and a torch would take care of neatly. And frequently you can get away with torching a small patch of natural cleft stone without it being noticeable.


(hire a mason)

 

[kirked]

Thanks to both of you for your insight. I had thought about notching but didn't think that would be enough to do the trick (it is thermal bluestone btw). Happily I was wrong. I hosed down the section, let it sit and then filed some subtle notches in about 3 spots. It slowly drips and clears the area.

Always a fan of the easiest solution. Thanks! Jeanne

 

[CJKarl]

Can't you remove it and try to get the bed a little thinner? That's what I would do. Call the damn mason back and make him fix it. I HATE HATE HATE ponding water on steps or a terrace.

 

[americanmason]

Glad You found a solution!:clap::clapon't see bluestone used here in the midwest.


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