Planning to add concrete steps to the patio this summer? Building your own concrete steps can be challenging. Doing it yourself, especially if the steps are to be built on a slope, can be difficult even with reasonable experience. The Concrete Doctors presents a walk-through of how to build concrete steps on a slope with the help of a concrete contractor Edmonton.
Planning Your Concrete Steps
Before diving into the construction process, it's essential to plan the dimensions of your concrete steps meticulously. Follow these steps:
Total Rise Calculation: Measure the height from the top of the stairs to the bottom to determine the total rise.
Determining the Number of Steps: Divide the total rise by the desired individual rise (typically 7 inches) to determine the number of steps required.
Calculating Individual Dimensions: Divide the total rise by the number of steps to determine the exact dimension of each individual rise.
Determining Tread Depth: Decide on the depth of each tread (typically 10-12 inches).
Total Run Calculation: Multiply the individual run (tread depth) by the number of steps to determine the total run of the stairway.
Groundwork Preparation
Once you've completed the planning phase, it's time to prepare the groundwork for your concrete steps. Follow these steps to ensure a solid foundation:
Stake Out the Base of Your Steps
Mark the perimeter of your stairs using wooden stakes and string. Ensure the layout is square and properly aligned to avoid any deviations in the final product.
Excavate the Area for Your Steps
Dig a trench for your steps, removing any debris and ensuring the depth is sufficient for the sub-base and concrete. Pay attention to the dimensions outlined in your plans.
Cut and Assemble Your Concrete Form
Cut pieces of scrap wood or low-grade lumber to create a form for your concrete steps. Assemble the form securely, ensuring there are no gaps or irregularities.
Lay Your Subbase
Create a subbase using granular fill material, such as open-grade stone. Compact the subbase thoroughly to provide a stable foundation for your concrete steps.
Also read: In-Situ Concrete: An Overview
Building Concrete Step's Side Forms
Properly constructed side forms are essential for ensuring the structural integrity and aesthetics of concrete steps. Here's how to do it:
Marking and Setting Side Forms: Use 3/4 inch plywood to mark the total rise and total run. Ensure the side forms are perpendicular to the building foundation and properly sloped.
Securing the Forms: Support the forms with stakes and ensure they are level and securely fastened.
Installing Riser Forms: Cut lumber to the correct width and length for risers, beveling the bottom of each riser for ease of finishing.
Build a Rebar Cage: For added reinforcement, build a rebar cage within the form. Use wire ties to connect the rebar pieces securely and ensure they are positioned correctly.
Pouring and Finishing the Concrete
With the groundwork in place, you're ready to pour and finish the concrete for your steps. To get professional results, adhere to these steps:
Mix Your Concrete
Prepare the concrete mixture according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring the correct water-to-concrete ratio. Consider adding colourant for a customized look.
Pour the Concrete
Transfer the concrete mixture into the form using a shovel, wheelbarrow, or cement mixer. Fill the form evenly, taking care to eliminate any air pockets or voids.
Screed the Surface
Use a screeding tool to flatten the surface of the concrete and remove excess material. Work from uphill to downhill, ensuring a smooth and uniform finish.
Float the Concrete
Float the surface of the concrete using a bull float or handheld magnesium float. This process helps bring the cream to the surface and creates a smooth texture.
Brush for Traction
Create fine grooves in the surface of the concrete using a stiff-bristled push broom. This improves traction and reduces the risk of slipping, especially on outdoor steps.
Also read: Steps to Relocating Precast Concrete Steps
Allow for Curing
As directed by the manufacturer, let the concrete cure. Apply a concrete sealer for added protection, and remove the form after the concrete has set.
Post-Pouring Care
Test the concrete's readiness for form removal and gently dismantle the forms. Fill voids with excess concrete and apply evaporation retardant to prevent premature drying.
Sealing and Maintenance
Seal the concrete surface to enhance durability and protect against weathering. Barricade the area and inform homeowners about proper care and maintenance.
Final Assessment
Building concrete steps requires careful planning, precise execution, and proper finishing techniques. By following these steps and guidelines, you can create durable and visually appealing concrete steps for your project.
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