Entry Step Risers & Treads
- The height of your front entry step (called Risers ), according to code, can be no higher than 7 3/4 inches .
- The part of the front entry step you actually step on (called Treads) can be no less than 10 inches.
- All Risers (the height of the steps) and Treads (the part you step on) must all be the same; uniform . ...
How thick should concrete steps be?
The weight of the concrete dictates that the forms are also braced in place. Use sand or gravel as fill when more than a single step is being built. At a minimum, the thickness of each step at the front will be the riser height plus 4 inches. At the rear of each step, and at the sides, the minimum thickness is about 4 inches.
How high should the risers be on a step?
The risers, which are the parts that sit vertically underneath each step, should be no higher than 7 3/4 inches and no smaller than 4 inches. This height creates a step that is neither too high nor too short.
How deep should a step be for stairs?
Treads, which are the parts of the steps that you walk on, are typically no smaller than 10 inches deep. This ensures a large enough space to safely walk on as you navigate each step. The risers, which are the parts that sit vertically underneath each step, should be no higher than 7 3/4 inches and no smaller than 4 inches.
How do I build concrete steps?
Building concrete steps requires extreme base preparation. It is recommended that your concrete stairs are at least six inches wider than the doorway on each side. Remove any grass or topsoil down to at least six inches below the surface.
What is the standard height of a concrete step?
Riser heights For nonresidential buildings (IBC), stair riser heights shall be 4 inches minimum and 7 inches maximum as shown in the chart. For residential buildings (IRC), the maximum riser height is 73/4 inches.
Should concrete steps be attached to foundation?
Some local building codes may require that you anchor concrete steps to the foundation wall. You can either drill at an angle into a poured concrete foundation, or through a concrete block wall and insert rebar in the holes.
How much slope should a concrete step have?
To assure proper drainage, the steps should pitch forward with a slope of approximately ¼" (6mm) per foot. The height of the riser and depth of the tread are more important factors for achieving maximum safety and convenience.
Do you need rebar in concrete steps?
As mentioned above, concrete steps must have rebar installed to reinforce the structure. As you can see here, these steps are reinforced with a lattice of rebar that also ties into the concrete sidewalk at the top of the steps, helping to hold all of it together.
Do you need gravel under concrete steps?
Whether you pour concrete for a walkway or patio, a strong gravel base is required to prevent the concrete from cracking and shifting. Gravel is especially important in clay soil because it doesn't drain well, which results in water pooling under the concrete slab and slowly eroding the soil as it finally drains.
Should there be a gap between concrete and house?
It's important to note that houses are typically built with a purposeful gap between the slab and wall. A gap of 0.4 inches (10 mm) or less that is not causing a water leak does not need to be filled. However, large gaps—and any gap that allows water into your home—should be filled using this process.
What is the proper rise for a step?
The 2018 IBC building code for rise and run of stairs is a maximum 7" rise and minimum 11" run (tread depth). The OSHA standard for rise and run of stairs is maximum 9.5" rise and minimum 9.5" run (tread depth). The IBC maximum rise of a single stair flight is 12. '
What is a good rise for a step?
Riser Heights In the United States, the step height standard should be between 7 or 7 ¾ inches at the most, and no less than 4 inches. You should follow other measurements if given by local building codes. In Canada, the maximum step riser height is 8 ¼ inches.
What is a normal step height and depth?
The average step height in America is 7.5 inches. The depth is generally around 9 inches. As far as width goes, or the long part of the stairs, it's primarily up to the homeowner. What is this?
Can I pour concrete directly on dirt?
Long story short, yes you can pour concrete over dirt.
Do you need wire mesh for concrete steps?
Do All Concrete Projects Need Reinforcement? No, they do not. Larger projects or slabs may need steel reinforcement to provide support or extra strength. Wired mesh can also help resist cracking.
How thick should a concrete slab be for steps?
Concrete is typically applied at a minimum of two inches, but I recommend a minimum thickness of 4 inches for a durable stair footing.
How do you secure concrete steps?
0:152:12Attaching Stairs to Concrete with Wedge Anchors - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst the wedge anchor is inserted through the fixture. And into the concrete. The nut is thenMoreFirst the wedge anchor is inserted through the fixture. And into the concrete. The nut is then turned clockwise pulling the anchor up. And moving the clip down wedging.
What do you put between concrete and foundation?
Gaps against a house can direct water against the foundation, leading to more problems. Once a year, go around your home and fill these gaps and joints with urethane caulk (or polyurethane caulk) to prevent problems.
How do you anchor concrete steps?
0:151:57Drop-in Anchors Used for Attaching a Stairway to Cement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRemember always use eye and ear protection when using a hammer drill. The hole should be drilled 1/2MoreRemember always use eye and ear protection when using a hammer drill. The hole should be drilled 1/2 inch deeper in the base material than the anchor will penetrate. The deeper the embedment of the
How is a concrete staircase supported?
The concrete steps are to be reinforced with steel bars so as it carries the loads coming upon the stairs and transfer them to the ground. The number of steel bars and size of the bars is to be calculated by a structural engineers depending upon the loads coming on the stairs.
How to strengthen concrete?
To strengthen the concrete, bend lengths of 1/2-inch rebar so it roughly corresponds to the shape of the rubble mound and lay it on the rubble at 12-inch intervals. Wire perpendicular lengths of rebar across the first pieces. Then raise the rebar up and support it on dobies or balusters that you wire to the rebar.
How long does it take for a concrete railing to cure?
Broom the treads to roughen the surface, let the concrete cure, then install the railing. After 12 to 24 hours, remove the side forms and fill in any voids in the concrete.
What happens if you don't build concrete steps?
If you don't construct them according to code, a building inspector can make you tear them out. Codes may also include requirements about the placement of rebar or other reinforcements, as well as the concrete mix you use.
How to save concrete?
To save concrete, time, and money, shovel rubble (clean chunks of broken concrete, river rock, or any clean masonry) into the space inside the forms. Pile the rubble higher under the landing than the first step, but don't put in so much rubble that it will make the concrete in the steps too thin. Advertisement.
How many steps does it take to climb 20 inches?
For example, here's the math for a total rise of 20 inches: 20 inches/7 inches = 2.8 (rounding up equals three steps). 20 inches/3 steps = 6.6 inches. In this example, you'll need three steps 6-5/8 inches high to climb 20 inches.
How far should a door swing extend?
When considering the total run of the unit, local codes often require the top landing to extend at least 12 inches beyond the door swing. Subtract the width of an out-swinging door (usually 32 or 36 inches) from the length you measure between the foundation to the outside edge of the steps. If the remainder is less than 12 inches, you may need to change your plan.
How to find the unit rise and run of steps?
To compute the unit rise and run, first divide the total rise by 7 inches, a standard step height. Round up fractional results to the nearest whole number. Then divide the total rise again by this number to get the unit rise.
How high should a concrete stair riser be?
They should be in proportions that will comfortably accommodate the average person's stride. Although the ratio can vary depending on the application, local building codes often dictate the minimum and maximum riser heights and minimum tread depth. The 7-11 rule is one that's frequently used (maximum riser height of 7 inches and minimum tread depth of 11 inches). Risers should also be at least 4 inches in height.
How to make a seamless transition from flat surfaces to steps?
Contractors can make a seamless transition from flat surfaces to steps by using thin flex mats or texture skins in the same pattern as the rigid mats used for stamping the concrete flatwork. Made from a pliable urethane, these mats are easily bent to a 90-degree angle to conform to stair risers. Another handy way to imprint granite, slate, and other stone-like textures on narrow step treads and vertical faces is to use small texture rollers, such as these from Butterfield Color.
How high should a riser be?
The 7-11 rule is one that's frequently used (maximum riser height of 7 inches and minimum tread depth of 11 inches). Risers should also be at least 4 inches in height.
What is a concrete stairway?
Concrete steps or terraced stairways are the most prominent feature at the entryway of many homes and public buildings, yet too often they get relegated to purely utilitarian status. Elevating concrete stairs from bland to grand makes them the dramatic focal point of any front entrance. Even greater visual impact is possible by combining decorative stairways with stamped or stained concrete walkways and landings that incorporate coordinating colors and patterns.
What is a step liner?
They are made from a reusable polyurethane material and are simply attached to the inside of the riser form before the concrete is poured.
What is exposed aggregate finish?
With an exposed-aggregate finish, you can produce spectacular effects at a reasonable cost. Many types and sizes of decorative aggregate are available to achieve unlimited color and texture variations. Exposed aggregate also contrasts beautifully with plain concrete or other decorative treatments such as stamping, staining, and integral coloring. On exterior stairways, an exposed-aggregate finish offers the additional benefits of being nonskid and resistant to heavy foot traffic and weather extremes.
How to make sure stairs are lit at night?
Make sure stairs are well lit at night by using overhead lighting and keep light levels consistent in transitions between stairways and surrounding areas.
What size should concrete steps be?
Before you decide, make sure that it adheres with your local building codes so there won’t be any problem. Height and depth are the two most important dimensions. A normal person’s stride should comfortably step into the proportions of the stairs. Generally, most people follow the 7-11 rules, which means the riser height must be 7 inches, and the tread depth must be 11 inches. However, in most places, local building codes specify the minimum and maximum riser heights and the minimum tread depth.
How high should a stair riser be?
In addition, you must also measure the total rise of the stair. To determine the height of your landing, measure it from the ground up. For example, let’s say 4 risers of 6 inches, the total rise must be 24 inches. Usually, a comfortable riser is 6 – 8 inches high.
How to remove air pockets from riser board?
You can trowel or broom this surface once the riser boards are removed or use a wet sponge and cream to remove any air pockets. A sponge will produce a different texture to a broom.
How deep should a tread be for a step?
To figure out the run, A tread should have a depth of 12 inches and a rise of 6 to 8 inches. Steps leading to an entry should have wide treads and landings that people can comfortably stand on.
How to make concrete forms not bow?
Ensure your forms don’t bow by using plenty of braces (2×4) since the weight of the concrete will push the forms outward.
How to cure concrete after finishing?
The curing process happens by keeping the concrete wet. Waiting overnight after the finishing process would allow it to set. Removing the side forms the next day, patching any voids with concrete patch material, and hosing the concrete will help maintain its wetness. For concrete, the longer it is wet, the better.
What is the best way to protect concrete?
Protect it with a concrete sealer; it also makes it easier to clean.
What to use to smooth out voids in a broom?
This crew uses a sponge trowel to work in the retardant and smooth over the small voids on the sides. A sponge trowel leaves a texture that looks good next to the broom finish. If you don’t have a sponge trowel, simply broom finish the sides as well.
How to eliminate voids in concrete?
Eliminate the smaller voids by tapping on every part of every form board. More taps with a smaller hammer is better than a few taps with a big one. Big hammers can send concrete flying all over the place. You can’t overdo this step, especially since the stoop is being poured dryer and will be less willing to conform.
Why do you pour concrete wet?
The reason for this is that a thick pour will exert less pressure on the form and allow you to dismantle it sooner than later. Pouring the sidewalk wet will also give you time to let it sit while you are working on the steps. wet sidewalk pour also provides extra cream, which can be rubbed on the vertical faces of the concrete to smooth them out once you start pulling forms (see below).
What hammer to use for stoops?
Some stoops have had to be tackled with a skid steer fitted with a breaker hammer. Whether you are using a breaker hammer or a sledge hammer, it helps to locate the rebar (if there is any) and strike along its length. Sometimes, the concrete can be more easily broken apart if you follow the rebar. 4 / 52.
What is evaporation retardant?
An evaporation retardant is designed to slow down the curing process. This product is a must when working in conditions such as high temperatures, low humidity, high winds, or direct sunlight. This crew coats the entire inside of the form boards with an evaporation retardant. The retardant keeps the surface workable longer and acts as a form release, preventing the concrete from sticking to the form boards when the form is dismantled. This product is made by ChemMasters and is called Spray Film. In this application the retardant is applied undiluted with a sponge trowel.
How to identify steps built over wells?
You don’t want to start busting up the old steps and suddenly find yourself in the basement covered in rubble. You can identify steps built over wells by a glass access panel built in. Sometimes the panel has been broken or removed, but the patch should still be visible. Don’t even think about starting the demo process without asking the homeowner or preferably paying a visit into the basement and investigating with your own eyes.
What to do if you don't own a breaker hammer?
If you don’t own a breaker hammer, go rent one. Some of these old stoops were poured preposterously thick and are incredibly hard to bust up. Don’t order the concrete truck until you know what you’re dealing with. Even the pros we shadowed have spent the better part of a day on the demolition of one stoop. Some stoops have had to be tackled with a skid steer fitted with a breaker hammer.
How to smooth concrete?
Lay a screeding tool, like a long trowel or long wooden plank, flat along the top parts of your form and, working from uphill to downhill, work your tool along the form to flatten and smooth the concrete. Once you are finished screeding, your concrete should start looking more like the finished product.
What is run of stairs?
The run of your stairs, which is the depth of your stair measured from the front of your staircase to its back. The stringers of your stairs are the side supports to either side of each step. The measurements for your stringers will be used in the creation of your concrete forms.
What is a hand tamper?
Smaller projects can likely be done with a hand tamper, which is essentially a heavy, flat metal plate attached to a wooden handle. Larger projects might require you to use a plate compactor machine. Failing to lay a sturdy subbase can result in cracking, deterioration, or structural failure in your concrete steps.
How to make concrete smoother?
Brush your concrete for improved traction. Drag a stiff-bristled push broom across the surface of your concrete to create fine grooves in the surface. Smooth concrete can be very slippery, which can be especially dangerous for concrete steps.
How to get concrete to come to the surface?
Float your concrete. Floating involves pressing a flat surface along the top of the concrete to cause the "cream" (the gravel-free part of the concrete) to come to the surface. A bull float tool is ideal for this process, though it might not be necessary for smaller projects.
What is the purpose of a concrete excavation?
This excavation is intended to clear away rocks, trees, grass, shrubs, and anything else that might interfere with your concrete pouring. You'll also have to lay a sub-base upon which the concrete will rest.
How to transfer concrete into a form?
Transfer the concrete into your form with a shovel, wheelbarrow, or (for larger projects) the funnel that came with your cement mixer. If you are using a wheelbarrow, you might construct an earthen ramp so you can wheel your cement up to the lip of the form and tip in the concrete.
What size treads are used for concrete steps?
We here at Goodmanson Construction believe in 12 inch Treads for our concrete steps. People with larger feet can appreciate this wisdom. That’s why concrete entry steps (not precast concrete entry steps, I might add, but our very own custom built steps) are among our most popular concrete products!
How deep are entry steps?
Entry Step Footings. Footings must be at least 42 inches in depth. They may be block, poured concrete wall or post footings. Also, the Landing of the steps, must be at least 36 inches from where it abuts (lies adjacent to) the house out to the first step.
How thick are concrete steps?
We give our customized concrete steps a nice broom finish to give you more traction in the rain. Also, our steps are 5 inches to 9 inches thick with 3/8 inch rebar in a 24 inch grid pattern throughout.
How high should a front entry step be?
Entry Step Risers & Treads. The height of your front entry step (called Risers), according to code, can be no higher than 7 3/4 inches . The part of the front entry step you actually step on (called Treads) can be no less than 10 inches.
What happens if you don't install entry steps?
If entry steps are not properly installed with footings, sink-age may/will occur and water can run in between , possibly causing foundation problems.
How long does it take to remove concrete steps?
It will take about 3 days to remove your old steps, set up and pour the new steps. We have the proper equipment to haul the old concrete to the recycling plant so you won’t have a dumpster sitting in front of your house taking up parking spaces and being an eye sore.
What do we fill cavities with?
We also fill all cavities left from the forms with black dirt and grass seed. (You will be in charge of watering the grass seed).
How wide should a porch step be?
Standard Widths. The minimum width for porch steps is 36 inches, but 48 to 60 inches provides more comfortable access. Porch steps 48 inches wide accommodate one person easily and safely; wider porch steps allow two or more people to comfortably navigate the staircase.
How deep should stair treads be?
Stair Size. Treads, which are the parts of the steps that you walk on, are typically no smaller than 10 inches deep. This ensures a large enough space to safely walk on as you navigate each step. The risers, which are the parts that sit vertically underneath each step, should be no higher than 7 3/4 inches and no smaller than 4 inches.
What is the purpose of porch steps?
Porch steps serve a practical purpose, but they can also be a decorative element . Although you could build to the minimum required width, you could also consider building your staircase much wider. Wide porch steps are inviting and allow several guests to enter the porch together. Advertisement.
Do you have to check your porch before building?
Before building porch steps, check with your local building commission. Building codes strictly enforce the measurements of porch and deck steps. Your porch steps may fail to pass building inspections if you don't follow the local code.
Who is Julie Christensen?
Julie Christensen is a food writer, caterer, and mom-chef. She's the creator of MarmaladeMom.org, dedicated to family fun and delicious food, and released a book titled "More Than Pot Roast: Fast, Fresh Slow Cooker Recipes.".
