So, you’ve got a sloping yard, an uneven entrance, or just want to boost your home’s curb appeal with a set of sleek concrete steps or outdoor stairs? You’re in the right place.
Making steps might sound like something only pros do—but with the right tools, materials, and this guide, you can do it yourself. We’re not just mixing and pouring here. We’re talking about a full-fledged project that requires understanding the step foundation, load-bearing capacity, and safety standards.
This guide walks you through everything—from ground prep and geotextile fabric installation to curing and finishing techniques—so your stairs aren’t just functional, they’re durable, code-compliant, and look amazing.
How to Make Concrete Steps?
Concrete steps are the backbone of outdoor access. They’re strong, long-lasting, weather-resistant, and require very little maintenance. Compared to precast concrete steps, poured-in-place gives you more flexibility with design, size, and placement.
Plus, with the right techniques like using fibre reinforcement and managing expansion joints, they can last for decades without showing signs of wear.
Who Should Try This DIY Project?
Love hands-on projects? Don’t mind getting dirty? Want something you can proudly say you built from scratch? Then you’re a perfect fit. Even beginners can tackle this project if they follow the steps and use the right materials.
Just know, we are not just building stairs—we’re talking structural integrity and building materials that ensure your stairs support traffic without shifting or cracking.
Planning Your Concrete Steps
Know Your Local Building Codes
Before anything, call your local municipality and check whether a permit is required and what the safety standards are. This often includes max riser height, minimum tread depth, and handrail requirements. Getting this wrong could lead to fines—or worse, tearing it all out and starting over.
Determine Size, Shape, and Location
Are your steps going straight up? Curved? Alongside a retaining wall? Be clear on your design.
- Total Rise: Measure the vertical height from the bottom to the top landing.
- Number of Steps = Total Rise ÷ Riser Height (usually 6″–7″).
Measure Riser and Tread Properly
- Riser Height: 6″–7″
- Tread Depth: 11″–14″
- Add a slight overhang called step nosing to improve safety and style.
Make sure the slope or pitch allows for water runoff and meets code.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Basic Tools Required
- Shovel
- Trowel
- Float
- Level
- Circular Saw
- Wheelbarrow or Mixer
- Tamping rod
- Jointing tool
Materials Checklist
- Portland cement
- Sand
- Gravel
- Water
- Fiber reinforcement
- Rebar and wire mesh
- Geotextile fabric
- Form boards
- Stakes
- Screws
- Form release agent
- Plastic sheeting
- Calcium chloride (for faster setting in cold weather)
- Air entrainment additive (for freeze-thaw durability)
- Safety Gear: gloves, mask, goggles, boots
Preparing the Site
Marking the Layout
Use string lines and stakes to mark your stair footprint. Double-check with a tape measure to ensure precision.
Excavation and Base Preparation
Dig about 6–8 inches deeper than your base. Compact the soil, install geotextile fabric to prevent sinking, and lay 4 inches of gravel.
Use a compactor to flatten the base before adding the formwork.
Ensuring Proper Drainage
Slope the base away from your house or structure. Poor drainage leads to water damage, especially in colder regions with a deep frost line.
Building the Formwork
What Is Formwork and Why Is It Crucial?
Formwork is your concrete’s temporary mould. Without strong forms, your stairs will slump and lose shape. Apply a form release agent so you can easily remove them later.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Forms
- Cut lumber or plywood for risers.
- Secure with stakes and screws.
- Ensure square angles and level alignment.
Securing with Stakes and Screws
Drive stakes deep into the ground and attach forms using screws—not nails—for easier removal.
Checking for Level and Alignment
Use a long level to check both horizontal and vertical accuracy. A crooked stair is annoying and unsafe.
Adding Reinforcement
Rebar Placement for Strength
Lay rebar horizontally and vertically in each step. Tie intersections with wire for extra strength and structural integrity.
Wire Mesh vs. Rebar – Which to Use?
- Wire mesh: Easier, suitable for smaller projects.
- Rebar: Ideal for high traffic or heavier load-bearing capacity.
Mixing and Pouring the Concrete
Best Concrete Mix Ratio
Go with a 1:2:3 ratio of cement, sand, and gravel with enough water for a slump test result between 4–5 inches.
How to Mix Concrete Like a Pro?
Mix until it looks like thick oatmeal, not soupy. A good batch holds shape but spreads easily.
Consider adding air entrainment for freeze-thaw climates and calcium chloride if it’s cold out.
Pouring Concrete into the Forms
Start from the bottom step and work your way up. Fill forms gradually.
Working in Layers
Use a tamping rod to remove air pockets after each layer. Tamp lightly but thoroughly.
Finishing the Surface
Tamping and Screeding
Level the concrete using a board (screed). Then float the surface for smoothness.
Smoothing and Edging
Use a trowel and edging tool for rounded corners. Apply a jointing tool to create control joints and prevent cracking.
Adding a Non-Slip Texture
Drag a broom lightly across the surface to create a broom finish—great for traction when it’s wet.
Curing the Concrete
What Is Curing and Why Does It Matter
Curing slows down the drying process, allowing concrete to gain strength. Fast drying = weak stairs.
Curing Methods
- Cover with wet burlap or plastic
- Mist with water daily for 7 days
- Block foot traffic for at least 48 hours
Removing the Formwork
When and How to Remove Forms
After 48 hours or when the concrete is solid to the touch, gently unscrew and remove the forms.
Cleaning Up Edges and Corners
Use a chisel or rubbing stone to smooth imperfections.
Optional: Staining or Sealing the Steps
Benefits of Sealing
- Water resistance
- Longer lifespan
- UV protection
- Easier cleaning
- Key for concrete stairs maintenance
How to Apply a Sealer
Use a roller or sprayer. Apply two light coats. Let it cure as directed on the label.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating Drying Time
Concrete doesn’t dry in a few hours. Give it time—or expect cracks.
Skipping Reinforcement
No mesh or rebar? That’s like building a house with no beams.
Pouring All at Once Without Layers
Concrete is heavy. Pour and tamp each step individually.
You now know how to pour, shape, reinforce, and cure your very own outdoor stairs. With a little planning and patience, you can build something strong, safe, and satisfying. Trust the process. Build it right. Walk on it proudly.
FAQs
How long does it take to make concrete steps?
2–3 days, including curing time. Full strength in 28 days.
Can I use Quikrete instead of mixing?
Yes! Quikrete is great for small to medium stair projects.
Do I need a permit to build stairs?
Check with your local authorities—most places do require one.
How can I prevent cracks?
Use expansion joints, cure properly, and seal your concrete regularly.
What slope should my steps have?
1/4 inch per foot for drainage, plus a slight step nosing for safety.