Concrete Steps is a relatively affordable home improvement project with a dramatic aesthetic impact. Many homeowners are surprised by the ease of the installation and removal process.
To construct concrete stairs, builder crews start by laying out a frame. They dig footings to the depth codes required, lay rebar inside the form, and then pour the concrete.
Concrete stairs are a substantial home improvement project. Installing them is a complicated job that requires an experienced concrete contractor. If you decide to hire a professional, expect the project to cost upwards of $150 per step. You can reduce costs by doing some prep work before the contractors arrive. Remove and dispose of any pre-existing steps before the contractors start working, and clean the area to ensure it is ready for the new staircases. Many parts of the country require that your concrete contractor obtain a building permit for stairs to ensure they adhere to local safety standards, which also adds to the overall estimate.
Concrete is a heavy material that’s not easily moved once poured. For this reason, it’s important to have the right equipment and tools for the job. If installing concrete steps yourself, consider renting an industrial power mixer and a concrete slump truck to finish the job quickly and efficiently.
This Old House had a professional concrete contractor build a set of forms and pour the concrete on site for this project. Before running, the crew sprayed down the walls, forms, and rocks with a water hose to prevent the concrete from drying too quickly. They also added retardant to the concrete, which helps slow the rate at which it cures.
During the pour, the contractors used a rebar to reinforce the concrete and keep it from cracking under stress. They also tamped the concrete down with a hand tamper. This process takes time, but doing a good job is essential so the concrete is strong and stable.
Once the concrete was poured, the crew waited a few hours for it to set. Then, Carlos used a float to finish off the steps. He checked the risers for level and ran an edger tool along the corners. After that, he used a brush to create texture on the surface.
Regarding precast concrete, the installation process is much faster and simpler. However, it’s important to check with your concrete contractor before ordering precast stairs, as the quality can vary.
Concrete stairs are a popular option for homes and businesses because they’re durable, weather resistant, and add value to properties. They also help reduce the risk of accidents caused by slippery steps, which is especially important if a property has children or elderly residents. However, the installation process is complex and requires professional assistance.
Repairing existing concrete stairs is much cheaper than installing new ones. To save money, homeowners should prepare the area for contractors by clearing it of debris and ensuring the staircase is easily accessible. It’s also a good idea to have shovels, hand tamper, steel shims, and a pry bar on hand to ensure the contractor can finish the job as quickly as possible. Staining or stenciling is an extra charge that ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot.
Concrete is a long-lasting material that is a popular choice for stairs. But like any material, it requires maintenance to retain its durability and beauty. Proper maintenance can also save money over the life of the steps. Concrete stairs can be easily cleaned to remove dirt and grime with a broom or power washer. To remove rust or other stains, use a cleaner such as lemon juice, vinegar, trisodium phosphate, or oxalic acid. Regular sealing of concrete is another important step in maintaining the condition of your stairs. Sealing helps repel water and dirt, resisting abrasion and UV sunlight.
Cracked, hollow, or crumbling steps can ruin the appearance of your home and may pose safety hazards for anyone who uses them. It is usually possible to repair concrete steps, but the time and expense involved depend on how damaged they are. Small cracks or breaks cost as little as $10 to repair with caulk, but excessive crumbling will require a complete replacement.
Before beginning any repairs:
- Remove all weeds, toys, and decorations around your stairs.
- Sweep or blow away debris and dirt from the steps, then cover nearby plants with plastic coverings.
- Sweep the steps again to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
- Mix the concrete repair compound according to its directions.
If the concrete is chipped, use a wood form to shape the new cement patch to match the surrounding surface of the step. A large rock, brick, or concrete block works well as a form for this purpose, but you can also use a piece of plywood cut to the size of your step. Spray the L-shaped form with cooking oil to prevent it from staining your new concrete, then place a drop cloth under the form to protect the new concrete from errant grease splashes.
If the concrete is cracked, fill the cracks with exterior urethane or silicone-modified acrylic caulk rated for use on concrete. Sealing the concrete will help to keep water out, which can expand and damage the steps in winter. If the cracks are wide, they must be repaired with a concrete patching product designed for use on vertical surfaces.
Concrete stairs make a stunning architectural statement and are a great way to add value to your home. They are very durable and sturdy and create a sense of permanence and solidity in any building or space. However, constructing a staircase is a difficult task that requires the expertise of an engineer and skilled labor to produce. The process includes designing, laying foundations, building formworks, placing steel bars, concreting, and curing.
The design of a concrete staircase can vary based on its size and location and the type of finish used on the steps. For example, add wood railings if you want your stairs to look more elegant. Common finishes for contemporary stairs are glass, stainless steel, and wrought iron. Some designers incorporate lighting into the staircases, which can also enhance their appearance.
Stairs are often built in a curved shape, which gives them an attractive, modern appearance. They can be arranged to create an interesting geometric pattern or to match the style of the rest of the building or space. For instance, a double helix staircase has two parallel staircases that twist around each other and are popular in museums and art galleries.
If you plan to build a set of concrete stairs for your home, lay out footings 3 inches wider than the stairs. It is important to use a standard concrete mix containing three parts cement, two parts sand, and four parts gravel. It is also important to have a concrete vibrator during pouring, which helps ensure the concrete fills all the corners and edges of the forms.
During the construction of concrete stairs, it is important to check for cracks and voids in the concrete, as they can weaken the structure. To prevent this, you should use a concrete level to match the stairs’ surface and ensure it is flat and upright. You should also lay rebar 7 to 8 inches long in the footings.
Another advantage of precast concrete stairs is that they can be installed quickly and easily. This allows builders to avoid project delays due to weather conditions. They can also be designed to fit the build site, saving time and money.
