How to Build Concrete Stairs

Concrete stairs are the most durable and easy to maintain types of staircase for both indoors and outdoors and the usual question of every fascinated home-builder is – how to build concrete stairs?

If you are pretty observant, you would have probably noticed that some concrete stairs in some homes are cracked, uneven or chipping.

This can be a safety-hazard, as well as a spoiler for a nice home. This should not have happened if the building of the concrete stairs was approached with care and exactness.

Hence, it is really most advantageous that stair building be left with the professionals. However, if you have some knack for some mathematics – a little bit of algebra, geometry and plain arithmetic, plus, you consider yourself a handyman, how to build concrete stairs could be a task for you to consider.

Step One: Start by checking your local building codes. Approach the project like a pro, and as a pro, it is important to familiarize yourself with the standard measurements and local codes for safety.

Normally these codes enforce prescribed measurements and dimensions; and the requirement to install handrails. Seriously consider them.

Step Two: Familiarize yourself with the terms: A riser is the vertical face of each step (the height). A tread is the horizontal face of each step. It is what you step on.

Step Three: Measure the distance of the elevation. Know the height of one floor to the other. This measurement that you will arrive at is called the total rise of the stairs.

Step Four: Measure the horizontal distance. Know the width of each step by determining the space from the left to the ride side of the area where you intend to build your stairs.

Step Five: Do your mathematics. You are nearing the answer to the question – how to build concrete stairs. After having identified the total rise of the stairs, the divide this total height and arrive at the number of steps you must come up with. Typically, you may use 7.25 inches as your divisor, as this is the usual height for each step or riser.

Step Six: Start your plywood fitting which should act as your “forms” or scaffolding. Maintain your accuracy.

Step Seven: Pour your concrete (mixed according to manufacturer’s instructions) from bottom to top. When it has settled enough, remove your risers and smoothen the surfaces with the float tool. Let it cure for at least six days and patch any uneven portions with concrete patching material.