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CONCRETE STEPS AND STAIRS
for Rochester, NY, Homeowners

Photos of Patio Sitting Walls and Retaining Walls in Rochester, NY

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Beautiful Concrete Steps
that are  Built to Last for Rochester, NY, Climate

Your home’s concrete steps should not only serve as a way to safely traverse through the various slopes and levels of your outdoor living spaces, but to make the most out of your investment, you should also consider their aesthetic design. A well designed walkway can greatly increase the curb appeal and overall beauty of your home.

 

Your concrete steps also need to be built with structural integrity and meet all building codes in your area. This is why hiring a professional concrete contractor, like Gruttadaurio Masonry, is a good decision, instead of trying your hand at being a DIY concrete contractor. â€‹

Why Choose Concrete Steps and Stairs over Other Building Materials?

  • When properly installed and finished, they are safe and easy to traverse.

  • Concrete is durable and is able to withstand extreme weather and usage for decades.

  • Their aesthetics and design can be customized to coordinate with your home's exterior or with landscaping.

  • If you choose a stamped concrete technique, your concrete steps can realistically mimic a variety of materials for a fraction of the cost of using the actual materials it is mimicking.

  • An attractive set of concrete stairs can positively impact your home's curb appeal and add to its value. ​

Concrete Steps Photo Gallery

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Guide for Building New Concrete Steps

in the Rochester, New York Area

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1. Be Sure they're Installed Properly and Structurally Sound.

  • ​Your steps should be built with proper structural integrity which includes ensuring that the concrete footings are placed deep enough to reach below the frost line, which is crucial considering winters in the Rochester, NY, area

  • Rebar are the steel reinforcement bars that should be installed properly to strengthen the concrete and help prevent it from cracking

  • Ensure that your concrete steps are at least 4 inches thick for strength, stability, and to prevent deterioration.

  • The base of your concrete steps should consist of several inches of compacted gravel which helps with drainage and prevents settling (which can cause cracking).

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2.​ Learn About and Adhere to All Building Codes and Guidelines

  • The are specific requirements for residential stairways. There width should be at least 36 inches, the height of the riser should be no more 7.75 inches high, and there should be no more than a 3/8 inch variation. The minimum tread depth should be 10 inches (with a nosing edge) and 11 inches (without nosing). All risers and treads in a set of stairs are required to be the same height and depth.

  • Your concrete steps are also required to have a surface that provides traction to make this slip resistant. This can be achieved with concrete surfaces such as exposed aggregate, a broom finish  or other textured surface, or by adding a grit into the sealer.

  • The proper slope of the surface is important so that water does not accumulate on the steps.

  • The area in which you reside may also require that handrails are installed for support at a particular height. Your concrete contractor should ensure that your concrete steps are meeting the exact building code requirements for your area. ​

 

3.​ Questions to Ask when Hiring a Concrete Contractor to Build Your Steps

  • What level of experience do they have building concrete steps and stairs in your area?

  • Are they fully insured and do they offer some of quality assurance or warranty?

  • Do they have excellent reviews and high ratings on their Google Business Profile?

  • Will you need to prepare your project site ahead of time before they begin?

  • Have they given you a detailed written estimate with timelines?

  • Have they provided you with instructions on how to maintain and care for your concrete steps?

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