Concrete Steps & Stairs

Steps and stairs are safety-critical elements of your property. They need to be the right dimensions, have proper traction, and remain stable through all weather conditions. Poorly designed or damaged steps create serious trip hazards and liability issues. Good steps, on the other hand, provide safe passage and improve your home appearance.

Concrete is the ideal material for exterior steps because it handles weather, stays secure, and requires minimal maintenance. Unlike wood steps that rot or metal steps that rust, concrete steps last for decades without deteriorating. They stay firmly in place, do not shift or wobble, and maintain consistent dimensions as people use them thousands of times.

We design and build concrete steps for front entrances, back doors, basement access, grade changes in yards, and any location where you need to navigate elevation differences safely. Each project follows building codes for step dimensions and includes proper reinforcement and foundation work.

Building codes specify step dimensions because consistent sizing prevents trips and falls. Your body develops muscle memory for typical step heights and depths. When steps vary from expected dimensions, people misstep and fall. Here is what makes steps safe and code-compliant.

Key Step Design Elements:

• •Rise Height: Vertical measurement of each step, typically 6 to 7.5 inches. All steps in a flight must be the same height within 3/8 inch. Consistency is critical for safety.
• •Tread Depth: Horizontal surface where you step, minimum 10 inches deep for exterior stairs. Deeper treads are more comfortable and safer, especially when wet.
• •Width: Minimum 36 inches wide for residential steps. Wider steps feel more welcoming and allow people to pass. We often build 48 to 60 inches wide for front entrances.
• •Handrails: Required for stairs with 4 or more risers. Handrails must be installed at specific height and provide secure grip. We can install embeds for handrail attachment.
• •Landing Size: Top landing must be at least as wide as the stairs and at least 36 inches deep. Provides safe area to open doors without stepping backward down stairs.
• •Surface Texture: Steps need slip-resistant finish, especially in wet conditions. We use broom finish or textured treatments for safe traction.

We calculate proper step dimensions based on the total elevation change. This determines how many steps you need and ensures each step meets code requirements. Proper planning eliminates the awkward top or bottom step that is different from the others.

We build new steps and repair or replace existing steps that have cracked, settled, or become unsafe. New construction includes proper excavation, compacted base, reinforced concrete, and appropriate finish. We make sure the steps integrate well with your walkway system and overall property design.

For step repairs, we evaluate whether repair makes sense or if replacement is necessary. Minor surface damage can be patched. Settling issues might be fixable with leveling techniques. However, major cracking or structural failure usually requires complete replacement to ensure safety.

Step construction takes 2 to 4 days depending on the number of steps and site complexity. We form the steps carefully to achieve correct dimensions, pour reinforced concrete, and finish surfaces for traction. After adequate cure time, the steps are ready for use and will provide safe access for decades.

Design options include straight runs, L-shaped configurations, or curved steps for grand entrances. Steps can be plain concrete or finished with decorative stamping or staining to match other hardscape elements. We can also add features like planters, seat walls, or lighting to create complete entrance designs.

Need steps to connect different levels in your yard or provide access to a raised patio? We design step systems that work with your landscape and make outdoor spaces fully accessible.