Concrete steps are equal parts beauty, safety, and durability — the perfect choice for your home
Homeowners looking to add value and beauty are often drawn to concrete steps. Not only do they offer a practical solution, but with the right design choice, their unique appearance can make them an eye-catching piece of artistry on your property’s exterior.
Crafting concrete stairs requires skillful attention, but when done correctly, they will create a stunning focal point.
This blog will discuss everything you need to know about concrete steps for making an informed decision. We’ll dive into the benefits of choosing concrete over other materials, how safety can be built into their design, and the two types of concrete stairs available.
With concrete now available in so many types and designs, you can rest assured there is something perfectly suited to your house’s style. Discover how easy it is to enhance both accessibility and visual aesthetics by installing new concrete steps outside your home.
Let’s get into it.
Benefits of Concrete Steps
Concrete stairs have more going for them than just getting from one place to the next. Here’s a look at some benefits of adding concrete steps to your home.
Durable
One of the significant benefits of concrete steps is their long-lasting nature. Concrete is a durable material that withstands elements and heavy foot traffic. Concrete steps can last for decades when properly installed and maintained, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Low Maintenance
Another benefit of concrete steps is that they require little maintenance. Unlike other materials, such as wood, concrete does not rot or warp over time. It also does not require frequent painting or staining to maintain its appearance, making concrete steps a low-maintenance option for homeowners.
Safe
It is crucial to consider safety when designing steps, and safety is a signicant benefit of concrete steps. An excellent way to enhance safety is by adding texture to the design of the steps. A textured surface can reduce the risk of slips and falls by providing better traction for users.
Easy To Clean
You can quickly and effortlessly clean concrete steps. Simply sweep, hose down, or power wash them to remove dirt and debris. Being easily cleanable is especially helpful for frequently used stairs or ones exposed to the elements.
Cost-Effective
Since they are low-maintenance and easily cleanable, concrete steps are also cost-effective. Concrete is cheap compared to other building materials like natural stone or wood, and it is easy and quick to install.
Customizable
Lastly, concrete steps are highly customizable. They can be made in any shape or size, which makes them a great choice for homes with interesting architecture or landscaping. Concrete can also be made to look different by adding different colors, patterns, and textures. This lets homeowners create a truly unique look.
What Kind Of Concrete Stairs Can You Get?
You can install concrete stairs on your property in two ways: with poured concrete or with pre-cast.
Poured Concrete Stairs
Poured concrete stairs are created by pouring liquid concrete into a mold on-site and then shaping and smoothing the surface to create the desired design. This method allows for a high level of customization, as the stairs can be made in any shape or size to fit the property’s specific needs.
Pre-Cast Concrete Stairs
The other option is pre-cast concrete stairs. Pre-cast concrete stairs are made in a factory and then brought to the place where they will be installed. These stairs come in standard sizes and shapes, making them a more budget-friendly option for homeowners, but they are significantly less attractive because they don’t have a unified look with your home and walkways.
Concrete Steps Combine Durability, Aesthetics, and Safety
Concrete stairs bring an extra layer of safety to any space. Concrete stairs bring visual boundaries to the forefront and provide both a captivating and safe aesthetic. Its realistic texture delivers a sense of security while exuding style at the same time.
Use Different Tile Patterns
Create an eye-catching warning signal with a landscape border of larger stones or tiles to separate the stairway from its surroundings. This adds texture and realism, as natural stonework often uses thicker blocks along edges and curbs, which remain intact much better than smaller ones. This visual cue helps alert individuals that they are transitioning between levels while avoiding potential missteps in their journey.
Add Skins
Skins can be used to transform the treads into one or two large slabs of slate or sandstone for a more authentic look. Not only does this offer an even walking surface, but it also mirrors how stonemasons traditionally constructed stairs.
Incorporate Different Colors
Create a vibrant visual cue for safety by highlighting the concrete steps with a contrasting color. Utilizing a slurry of color hardener applied as a plaster to freshly poured concrete is suggested to create an extra strong bond, ensuring no delamination problems occur.
Add Texture for Added Safety
You’ll want to ensure your steps look great and are safe. There are many ways to add texture to concrete steps that will make them look better. For example, you can use stamps and skins to make them look like natural stone, or you can use a broom finish to make them less slippery. Slip-resistant additives can also be added to the concrete mix. This makes the coefficient of friction higher and makes the surface less likely to slip.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Concrete Walkways Compared to Concrete Steps?
When considering the pros and cons of concrete walkways, there are a few key factors to consider in comparison to concrete steps. Concrete walkways provide a smooth and level surface, making them ideal for strolling or using wheeled devices. However, steps are essential in accommodating changes in elevation, offering a solution for transitioning between different levels. The decision ultimately depends on the specific needs and functionality required for your space.
Final Thoughts
Putting in concrete steps is a good way to improve the look and usability of a property. Stairs made from this material are safe and last a long time. They can be bought ready-made or made to order, so homeowners can choose the best option for their budget and needs. With little upkeep needed, they are an excellent choice for any home improvement project!
If you’re thinking of adding concrete steps to your home or property, you should trust a professional to do the job correctly.
Tulsa Concrete Contractor has been pouring and installing concrete structures in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area for years. We have the tools, skills, and experience to make sure that your concrete steps are both safe and beautiful.
Click below to get a free in-person quote from Tulsa Concrete Contractor.
