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Most concrete patios can benefit from resealing every 2 to 5 years, though the exact timing depends on the type of sealer used, how much wear and tear the surface gets, and how exposed it is to the elements. Acrylic sealers tend to wear down faster and may require yearly applications, while more durable options like epoxy or polyurethane can offer longer-lasting protection.

You can pour concrete over asphalt if it’s in good condition, thick, stable, and well-compacted. Concrete is more durable than asphalt and can extend the lifetime of your driveway without having to pay frequent asphalt driveway repair costs or replace it completely. 

But this is best reserved as a temporary solution based on budget restraints, as asphalt requires more frequent repairs and assessments than concrete. Once that concrete top is poured, it’ll be harder to accurately understand what’s happening beneath that layer, which could lead to more issues.

Concrete should be at least 4 inches thick for steps. This thickness boosts stability and prevents cracking and deterioration. After you’ve built your forms out of wood, fill the void with a sand or gravel base for concrete. Use an all-purpose concrete mix to form your steps. After pouring your concrete steps, be sure to screed and float the concrete. 

It depends on whether you think it is worth it to make your own concrete. While you can save a lot of money making your own concrete and pouring your own concrete slab, it's an advanced DIY. Adding too much or too little water can offset the savings of skipping the professional, as the wrong mixture will not allow the concrete to cure properly for your unique project.