Concrete Steps & Stairs

Build safe, durable steps that handle daily use and Illinois weather without cracking, shifting, or becoming hazards.

Professional concrete steps and stairs installation in Urbana, IL

Steps That Keep You Safe

Your steps might be the most important concrete on your property when it comes to safety. Everyone who visits your home uses them, often while carrying things or in a hurry. Steps that have settled, cracked, or developed uneven surfaces create serious trip hazards. We build and repair concrete steps throughout Champaign and Urbana that eliminate these dangers and give you peace of mind.

Wood steps rot and require constant maintenance. Metal steps rust and get slippery in winter. Concrete steps properly installed last for decades with minimal care. They stand up to snow shoveling, ice melt chemicals, and constant foot traffic without breaking down. A good set of concrete steps is something you install once and then forget about because they just work year after year.

We handle all types of step projects from simple three-step entrances to longer staircases for split-level homes. Front entry steps, back door access, basement walk-outs, and steps connecting different levels of your yard all need the same careful attention to safety standards and proper construction. We make sure every step we build meets code requirements for rise and run dimensions, has proper drainage, and includes safe tread surfaces.

Building Steps the Right Way

Concrete steps require more engineering than most people realize. Each step must have the correct dimensions for comfortable and safe use. Building codes specify maximum riser height and minimum tread depth to prevent trips and falls. All steps in a flight must have identical dimensions so your foot lands exactly where you expect it every time. Even small variations can cause accidents.

Essential Step Construction Elements

Proper footing below frost line to prevent heaving and settling
Reinforcement with rebar to prevent cracking and increase strength
Correct slope on treads for water drainage without creating slip hazards
Consistent dimensions throughout the entire flight of stairs

We build forms that create the exact step dimensions needed. After pouring, we carefully finish each tread to create the right texture. Too smooth and steps become slippery when wet. Too rough and they are uncomfortable to walk on. We find the balance that provides safety without sacrificing comfort. For steps near your patio or driveway, we can match existing finishes to create a cohesive look.

Repair and Replacement Options

Existing concrete steps develop problems over time. Edges chip and crumble from snow shoveling and foot traffic. Settling creates uneven steps or separates stairs from the structure they connect to. Cracks allow water infiltration that makes problems worse through freeze and thaw damage. We assess your current steps and recommend whether repair or replacement makes more sense.

When to Repair Versus Replace

Minor edge damage can often be repaired with concrete patching compounds that restore the appearance and eliminate sharp edges. Small cracks get filled to prevent water damage. We can sometimes lift settled steps back to the proper position using leveling techniques. These repairs work well when the underlying structure remains sound and dimensions meet safety standards.

Complete replacement becomes necessary when steps have major structural problems, dimensions that do not meet code, or damage throughout multiple steps. Replacing steps gives you the opportunity to improve the design, add width for easier access, or incorporate features like integrated handrail posts. Many homeowners in our area choose replacement when they decide to update their home exterior because new steps make a significant visual impact.

We can also add decorative elements during replacement. Colored concrete, exposed aggregate finishes, or borders can make your steps an attractive feature rather than just a functional necessity. The choice depends on your budget and how the steps fit with your overall property design. We will show you options and help you decide what works best for your situation.

Common Questions About Concrete Steps

What are the standard dimensions for concrete steps?

Building codes specify that risers should be no more than 7.75 inches high, and treads should be at least 10 inches deep. These dimensions create steps that feel comfortable and safe for most people. The total rise divided by riser height determines how many steps you need. All steps in a flight must have identical dimensions, with very small tolerance for variation. We calculate the exact measurements for your specific situation to ensure comfortable, code-compliant steps.

Do I need a handrail for my concrete steps?

Building codes typically require handrails for steps with four or more risers. Even when not required by code, handrails improve safety and help people who have mobility issues. We can install embedded posts during concrete pouring that provide solid mounting points for railings. This creates a much stronger installation than trying to attach railings to finished concrete. If you plan to add railings later, let us know during construction so we can include the proper anchors.

How do I prevent my concrete steps from getting slippery in winter?

Proper surface texture makes the biggest difference. We finish steps with a broom texture or similar treatment that provides traction even when wet or icy. You can also apply traction strips or anti-slip coatings to existing steps. During winter, keep steps clear of snow and ice as much as possible. When using ice melt products, choose ones labeled as concrete-safe to avoid surface damage. The combination of good texture and regular maintenance keeps your steps safe year-round.