How to Design Exterior Concrete Stairs

Exterior concrete stairs are durable and slip-proof when designed appropriately. Concrete is versatile and can be finished for decorative or utilitarian styles, while complementing a number of building materials around the property. Safety is the primary consideration for stair design; thousands of people are killed or injured in falls on stairs every year. Steel reinforcement is essential for concrete stairs to strengthen the concrete and prevent deterioration from wear and tear from foot traffic. Forming for concrete stairs requires skill and familiarity with the material; professional expertise is recommended.

Sketch paper and pencil
Architect's or engineer's scale
Calculator
Measuring tape
Local building code

Instructions

- 1
  Check local regulations for landing and handrail requirements, and minimum and maximum dimensions for stairs. Determine the start and end point of the stairs, including required landings.
- 2
  Find the vertical rise from the surface of the lower landing to the surface of the upper landing. Divide the total rise by the desired height of the riser. Round a fractional number up or down and divide that number by the total rise. The result is the height of the riser.
- 3
  Calculate the tread using the exterior tread-run ratio of 2 x risers (R) + tread (T)= 26 inches. Pitch the stairs at 1/4 inch per foot to shed water.
- 4
  Choose a slip-proof finish for the concrete, such as broom or exposed aggregate finish. Plan expansion and contraction joints close to the bottom riser and far from the top one.
- 5
  Reinforce the concrete with steel. Dowel, or fasten, the stairs into a retaining wall where there is one.

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