Concrete Steps & Stairs
Safe, durable steps that provide secure access and enhance your property's entrance.
Why Concrete Steps Make Sense
Your steps get used every single day, often multiple times. They need to handle constant foot traffic, weather exposure, and time without breaking down. Concrete delivers this durability better than wood, which rots and requires regular maintenance, or metal, which can rust and become slippery. Properly built concrete steps last for decades with minimal upkeep.
Safety is the primary concern with any steps or stairs. Uneven treads, improper rise height, or surfaces that become slippery when wet create hazards. We build steps with consistent dimensions, appropriate tread depth, proper slope for drainage, and finishes that provide traction. These details aren't optional extras. They're essential elements of safe, code-compliant construction.
Concrete steps also integrate seamlessly with other concrete work on your property. If you're installing a new patio or walkway, connecting everything with matching steps creates a cohesive look. When you work with WFC Cary Concrete, we coordinate all your concrete elements so everything flows together naturally.
Designing Steps That Work
Good step design balances functionality with appearance. The rise between steps should be consistent and comfortable to climb, typically around 7 inches. Tread depth needs adequate space for your foot, usually at least 11 inches. These proportions matter for safety and ease of use. Steps that are too steep or have shallow treads feel awkward and create tripping hazards.
Width depends on the application and traffic. Front entry steps should be wide enough to feel welcoming, typically at least 4 feet across. Side or back steps can be narrower, though building codes often specify minimums. For accessibility, we can design steps with appropriate slope ratios and include space for handrail installation if needed.
Step Features We Include
- Proper foundation extending below frost line
- Steel reinforcement for strength and crack resistance
- Textured or broom-finished treads for traction
- Nosing detail on step edges for visibility and safety
- Integrated landings connecting steps to entrances
- Drainage slope preventing water accumulation
Steps can also be decorative. Stamped patterns, colored concrete, or exposed aggregate finishes add visual interest without sacrificing function. We can match your steps to other concrete work or coordinate with your home's architectural style. The goal is steps that look good and work perfectly for their intended use.
Replacing Old or Damaged Steps
Failing steps are a serious safety issue that needs attention. Crumbling edges, uneven treads, or steps that rock when you walk on them create hazards every time someone uses them. If your steps show significant damage, repair often isn't enough. Replacement gives you safe, stable steps built to current standards.
We remove old steps carefully to avoid damaging adjacent structures. Then we prepare proper foundations and build new steps that will last. If the original steps failed due to poor foundation depth, inadequate reinforcement, or drainage problems, we correct these issues during replacement. You get steps that won't repeat the problems that caused the old ones to fail.
The replacement process typically takes a few days from removal to completion. You'll need temporary access during construction, which we help arrange. Once the new steps are in place, they need about a week to cure before regular use, though this varies with weather and concrete mix. We provide clear timelines and keep you informed throughout the project.
If you're planning other improvements like new walkways or porch work, coordinating everything together saves time and money. We can match materials, colors, and finishes across all your concrete work for a unified appearance that enhances your property's curb appeal.