Does Home Depot Have Concrete Steps? (Find Out Now!)
Home Depot is a go-to home improvement store when you need to work on your home. You can usually find what you need, and depending on your store, you may also find some knowledgeable handymen that can give you some how-to advice. If you are needing to add (or replace) concrete steps at your home, can you find these at Home Depot?
Yes, Home Depot sells premade concrete steps in their stores. You can find 1 step up to 4 step sets that are compliant with the International Building codes. These step sets are made from high-strength lightweight 5000 psi reinforced concrete. They also have a nosing, which is a protruding tread. This makes a more comfortable and attractive step.
Let’s look at the steps that Home Depot offers and why precast concrete steps can be a better option than poured.
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What Concrete Steps Can I Find at Home Depot?
Concrete steps can come in different shapes and sizes. They should follow standards and building codes. The steps you can find at Home Depot are:
1-4 Steps
You will need different sized steps depending on how high your home is up off the ground. Home Depot offers steps that are 1, 2, 3, and 4-tread steps. Before you buy a set of steps, make sure you measure at your home to know how many steps you will need.
International Building Code Compliant
Did you know that the International Building Code also regulates concrete steps? The good news is that when you buy premade concrete steps, you don’t have the burden of measuring out the correct rise and run. Home Depot’s stairs advertise that they follow the IBC standards for outdoor steps.
Nosing
Nosing is when one step has a slight overhang over another step. While concrete steps are not required to have “nosing” this is a more desirable option. Nosing provides a more comfortable and safe step and doesn’t wear as quickly as steps without nosing.
Precast Concrete Steps Pros and Cons (Versus Poured Steps)
Precast steps can have some advantages over poured steps, but there can also be a few downsides as well.
For poured steps, you will have to create the frame for them before you pour them. Then you will need to shape and cure your steps. You won’t be able to use your steps until they are cured. This can be a lot that could go wrong if it is your first rodeo! With precast steps, someone else has already taken on the headache of building your stairs. All that is left for you to do is install them.
With precast concrete steps, you won’t have to worry so much about cracking when the ground settles. This is because concrete steps are built off-site and not from the ground up. Also, since they are one piece, there won’t be gaps or mortar for water to enter and erode your connections.
Precast steps are often more durable than poured steps because they are cured in a controlled indoor environment. On the other hand, with poured steps, you will need to cross your fingers and hope that nature will show you some favor. A solid cure will need appropriate temperatures (and no rain!)
Precast steps have a more uniform appearance because they are molded instead of hand-poured.
The main issue with precast steps is that you may not find a height that exactly matches the height of your patio or home. You may need to adjust your ground level to get your steps to the right height. With poured steps, you can build them according to the height you need.
While precast steps may have some adjustments you will need to make, most often, the pros outweigh the cons.
Related Guide: How Much Do Precast Concrete Steps Cost?
How to Install Concrete Steps
Before you go out and buy concrete steps, you will want to know a bit about how to install them when you bring them home.
Step 1: Clear the ground
First, you will want to clear the area where your steps will go. Remove debris, grass, and weeds for a flat surface.
Step 2: Measure for the correct height
Measure the height from your ground to your entrance or landing. You can make adjustments as needed by adding ground or removing ground to get your steps to the right height.
Step 3: Level the ground
When you have the ground level where you want it, make sure to tamp the ground so you have a solid, compact surface. It is a good idea to also use a leveler to make sure your surface is even.
Step 4: Transport your steps
Most problems with precast steps come in transport rather than their molding or installation. It may be worth a few extra bucks to order your steps from Home Depot with transport. That way, if your steps are compromised in transport, you can get a replacement. Also, it will save you some labor.
Step 5: Adjust the ground level as needed
When your steps arrive at the site, you can see if your measuring paid off. Then make any adjustments needed to get your steps to the right height.
Step 6: Attach steps to your foundation (if necessary)
Depending on the building codes in your area, you may need to attach concrete steps to your foundation. You can do this by drilling an angled hole into your foundation or concrete blocks and using rebar to strengthen the connection.
Proper Care for Concrete Steps
You don’t have to do a lot of maintenance with precast steps. The most you should need to do is to seal them from time to time to protect them from moisture and erosion. Also, don’t use ice on your steps as this can cause your steps to crack prematurely. If you take proper care of your precast steps, they can last up to 40 years.
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Related Questions
Is it possible to pour new concrete over my old concrete steps?
Yes, it is possible. Just keep in mind that this will not fix issues such as cracks. Also, any new layer you add should be at least 2 inches thick to make a solid bond.
Is slipping an issue on concrete steps?
While concrete is not much more slippery than other surfaces, the steps can be slick when wet. You can make them safer by slip-resistant tape, painting or waterproofing, or with artificial grass.
How do concrete steps compare to wood?
Concrete steps are not as vulnerable to water and weather as wood. They also require less maintenance.
Alex Praytor is a native Texan who got her degree in English Literature and decided to travel the globe. She finds the architecture and design of homes across cultures fascinating. In her spare time, she visits coffee shops with her family and creates projects for their own home. Alex enjoys sharing tips on how to keep repairs up to date while turning a house into a home.
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