Concrete Steps & Stairs

Why Quality Steps Are Essential

Steps and stairs are among the most critical safety features of your home. Damaged, uneven, or poorly constructed steps create serious hazards that can lead to falls and injuries. Whether you need to replace deteriorating steps, add new access to your property, or build stairs for a deck or patio, quality construction is not optional. It is essential for safety and peace of mind.

Concrete is the best material for exterior steps because it is incredibly durable and requires minimal maintenance. Unlike wood steps that rot, warp, and need regular staining, concrete steps can last 50 years or more with basic care. They stay solid and stable through all weather conditions without shifting, settling, or deteriorating. This long-term durability makes concrete steps a smart investment for your home.

We build all types of concrete steps including front entry stairs, back door steps, basement entrance stairs, garage access steps, and outdoor stairways connecting different levels of your property. Each project is custom-built to fit your specific needs, property layout, and local building codes. Proper design ensures your steps are comfortable to use with correct rise and run dimensions.

Safety features are built into every step project we complete. This includes proper tread depth and riser height, non-slip surfaces, adequate width, and handrails when required by code. We also ensure proper drainage so water does not pool on steps or create ice hazards in winter. Your home entry deserves steps that are both safe and attractive.

Building Code Requirements for Steps

Building codes exist to ensure steps are safe and usable. We follow all local and national building codes on every project:

Rise and Run Standards

Step risers, the vertical part of each step, should typically be between 4 and 7 inches high. The tread, where you place your foot, should be at least 10 to 11 inches deep. All risers in a stairway must be the same height, and all treads must be the same depth. Variations cause people to trip because they expect consistent dimensions. We measure and build precisely to ensure every step is uniform.

Width and Handrail Requirements

Residential stairs typically need to be at least 36 inches wide to allow comfortable passage. Stairs with four or more risers usually require handrails on at least one side. For wider stairs or public access, handrails may be required on both sides. Handrails must be installed at specific heights and meet grip requirements. We coordinate handrail installation or prepare steps for future handrail addition.

Landing Size and Placement

At the top and bottom of stairs, you need landings that are at least as wide as the stairs and at least 36 inches deep. Landings provide a safe transition area and are especially important at doors. We incorporate proper landings into our step designs and ensure they integrate smoothly with doorways, walkways, and other surfaces.

Drainage and Surface Texture

Steps must shed water effectively to prevent pooling and ice formation. We slope treads slightly forward so water runs off. The surface needs adequate texture for traction without being uncomfortably rough. We typically use a broom finish or light texturing that provides good grip in wet conditions while remaining smooth enough for comfortable use.

Our Step Construction Process

Building stairs that will last decades requires careful planning and skilled execution:

• Accurate measurements and layout: We carefully measure the total rise from bottom to top and calculate the number of steps needed. We lay out the exact location ensuring proper alignment with doors and walkways.
• Excavation and foundation: We excavate to stable soil and pour a solid foundation footing below the frost line. This prevents frost heave that can crack or shift steps. Proper foundation work is critical for long-lasting stairs.
• Form building: We construct precise forms that define each step. Forms must be perfectly level side to side and properly positioned for correct rise and run dimensions. This step requires skill and attention to detail.
• Reinforcement installation: We install rebar reinforcement to add strength and prevent cracking. Steps experience significant stress and need proper reinforcement to remain solid over time.
• Concrete placement and finishing: We pour and carefully finish each step, creating smooth, uniform treads and risers. We add proper texture for traction and ensure clean, professional edges.

We can also add decorative elements like colored concrete, exposed aggregate, or brick accents to enhance the appearance of your steps. Many homeowners coordinate their step design with their walkways and patios for a cohesive look throughout their property.

Frequently Asked Questions