Concrete Steps & Stairs

Why Concrete Steps Are the Smart Choice

Steps and stairs take constant abuse from foot traffic, weather, and time. You need something that stays level, does not rot, and handles whatever you throw at it. Concrete delivers all of this while looking good and requiring almost no maintenance.

Wood steps rot, warp, and need regular staining or painting. Metal steps rust and get slippery when wet. Brick or stone steps look great but cost significantly more than concrete. Concrete gives you the durability of masonry at a much lower price point.

Safety is the top concern with any steps or stairs. Concrete can be finished with textures that provide traction even when wet. Proper dimensions and handrails make stairs easy to use for everyone, from kids to older adults. Building to code ensures your steps are safe and legal.

Concrete steps also add value to your property. Solid, well-built steps tell buyers your home is maintained properly. They also provide reliable access that does not need replacement every few years like wood steps often do.

Common Types of Concrete Steps We Build

Different situations call for different step designs. We build everything from simple front porch steps to complex outdoor staircases that navigate steep slopes.

Step types and applications:

• •Porch and entry steps: Most common type. Usually three to six steps leading to front or back doors. Can be straight or with landings.
• •Outdoor staircases: Longer runs connecting different levels of your yard. Often needed for sloped properties or hillside homes.
• •Basement access stairs: Exterior stairs leading to basement or lower-level entrances. Need proper drainage and weather protection.
• •Deck and patio access: Steps connecting raised decks or patios to ground level. Often integrated with the deck or patio design.
• •Commercial and ADA stairs: Built to strict code requirements for public access. Specific dimensions, handrails, and landing requirements.

We design steps based on your specific needs and local building codes. Height, width, tread depth, and riser height all matter for safety and code compliance. Tell us where you need steps and how you will use them, and we will design something that works perfectly.

How We Build Your Concrete Steps

Building concrete steps requires precision. Every step must be the same height and depth for safe, comfortable use. We measure carefully and build forms that create perfectly uniform steps.

Planning starts with measuring the total rise from bottom to top. Building codes specify maximum riser height (usually 7 to 8 inches) and minimum tread depth (usually 10 to 11 inches). We calculate how many steps you need and design them to meet code while fitting your space.

Foundation work comes first. Steps need a solid footing below the frost line so they do not settle or shift. We excavate, pour footings, and let them cure before building the steps themselves. Skipping proper footings leads to cracking and settling within a few years.

Form building is where precision matters most. We construct wooden forms that shape each step exactly. Everything must be level side to side and the correct height and depth. We double-check measurements before pouring because mistakes in concrete are expensive to fix.

Pouring happens all at once for best results. We fill the forms, vibrate out air pockets, and finish each tread surface. Texture gets added for traction while the concrete is still workable. After the concrete sets enough to hold its shape, we strip the forms and let it cure for several days before use.

Finishing Touches and Safety Features

The finish you choose affects both appearance and safety. Steps need enough texture for traction but should not feel rough or uncomfortable. We offer several finish options that balance these needs.

A light broom finish is the most common choice. It provides good traction without being too rough. For a more decorative look, we can use stamped patterns or colors that match your home or existing concrete. Non-slip additives mixed into the finish coat add extra grip for wet conditions.

Handrails are required by code for stairs with more than three or four risers, depending on your location. We can set anchor points during construction so handrails install easily later. Proper handrails make stairs safer and easier to use, especially in ice or rain.

Lighting is another important safety consideration. Steps should be well lit for nighttime use. We can plan for lighting during construction, such as adding conduit for future wiring or designing the steps to accommodate landscape lighting.

Drainage matters too. Water pooling on steps creates slip hazards and ice problems in winter. We slope each tread slightly forward so water runs off. For covered steps or stairs with landings, we ensure proper drainage so water does not collect anywhere.

Common Questions About Concrete Steps