Safe, durable steps that connect different levels of your property.
Steps and stairs provide safe passage between different elevations on your property. Whether it is from your yard to your front porch, down to a basement entrance, or between terraced levels in your landscape, well-built concrete steps are both functional and permanent. They handle foot traffic in all weather conditions and require minimal maintenance.
We build concrete steps for entrances, porches, decks, and landscape transitions throughout Findlay and Northwest Ohio. Each project is different because every property has unique elevation changes and requirements. The steps need to fit the space, meet code requirements for safe dimensions, and match the style of your home or landscape.
Concrete is the practical choice for outdoor steps because it stands up to our weather without rotting, warping, or becoming dangerously slippery. Unlike wood steps that need regular maintenance and eventual replacement, concrete steps last for decades with little attention. They provide solid, stable footing that does not shift or sag over time.
Safety is the top priority with any stairway. We build steps with proper dimensions for comfortable and safe use. Treads are the right depth, risers are consistent height, and the overall slope matches building code requirements. Handrails can be incorporated where needed. These details ensure your steps are safe for everyone who uses them.
Proper construction starts with a solid foundation. We excavate to appropriate depth, compact the soil, and pour footings that extend below the frost line. This prevents the steps from settling or shifting with freeze-thaw cycles. Inadequate footings are the main reason steps fail, pulling away from porches or cracking at connections.
The steps themselves are reinforced with rebar to handle the stress of the cantilevered design. Each tread needs to support weight without cracking or sagging. We form the steps carefully to get consistent riser heights and tread depths. Building codes specify dimensions for safety, and we make sure every project meets these requirements.
Here is what goes into quality concrete steps:
We pay special attention to how the steps connect to your porch, deck, or other structures. The connection needs to be solid to prevent separation as things settle or shift slightly over time. Proper flashing and sealing at these joints prevents water from getting in and causing problems.
A standard broom finish provides good traction and a clean, functional appearance. This is the most economical option and works well for most applications. For a more refined look, we can do a smooth trowel finish on the risers with a textured finish on the treads for slip resistance.
Stamped concrete can transform steps into a decorative feature that complements your home. Stone patterns work especially well for steps, giving the appearance of natural stone or slate. Color can be added to match your home's exterior or coordinate with existing patio work.
Steps can be designed with different configurations depending on your space and needs. Straight runs work for simple elevation changes. L-shaped or U-shaped stairs fit into corners or tight spaces. Wide steps with integrated landings create a more gradual and welcoming entrance. We help you choose the configuration that works best for your property.
Walls or cheek walls along the sides of steps provide a finished appearance and can double as planters or seating. These built-in features make steps feel like designed landscape elements rather than just functional necessities. Lighting can be incorporated into walls or risers for safety and aesthetics.
For commercial properties, we ensure steps meet ADA requirements where applicable, with proper handrails, landings, and dimensions. Public access stairs need to meet specific code requirements, and we are familiar with what is needed to pass inspections.
Yes, we carefully remove old steps and install new ones without damaging your existing porch or house. We use the right equipment and techniques to break up and remove the old concrete. If the old steps were attached to your porch, we clean up the connection area and make sure the new steps attach securely. In some cases, minor repairs to the porch edge might be needed, which we handle as part of the project. Our goal is new steps that look like they were always there.
The number of steps depends on your total elevation change and the riser height we use. Building codes require consistent riser heights between 4 and 8 inches, with 7 inches being common for residential steps. We measure your elevation change and calculate the number of steps needed to meet code requirements while providing comfortable passage. For example, a 28-inch rise would typically need four 7-inch steps. We walk you through the calculations and help you understand what works best for your situation.
Building code requirements for handrails vary by location and the number of steps. Generally, residential stairs with more than three or four risers require at least one handrail. Commercial and public stairs have stricter requirements. Even if not required by code, handrails are a good safety feature, especially for older adults or anyone with mobility concerns. We can install handrails as part of your step project or provide mounting points for rails you install later. We advise you on what your local code requires and help you make the right choice for safety.
We will evaluate your elevation change and provide a detailed quote for steps that meet code and fit your property perfectly.
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