Precast concrete steps are durable, quick to install, and low maintenance. They can enhance your home’s exterior look while saving you time and money during construction.
If you want to change the exterior of your home and are interested in installing precast concrete steps, you are in the right place. In this guide, you will learn the benefits of precast concrete steps and what are the major steps you need to know in installing.
What are precast concrete steps?
Precast concrete steps are also known as precast stairs. These are prefabricated stair units that are made at a factory. They are produced by pouring concrete into molds and reinforced with steel.
Once the steps are made, they are taken to the place where they are needed. Then, they are transported and installed at the site.
Tools necessary to install precast concrete steps
If you want to install precast concrete steps so you need some tools that are mentioned below:
Jackhammer: It is a tool that is used to remove old steps. If there is a new location where the steps are not present before, then you do not need a jackhammer at home.
Shovel: This is used to fix the length of the steps. These are specially designed to transfer the steps from one place to another.
Tape measure: It is used to measure any object.
Hand tamper: It is used for packing household items.
Trowels: This is a trowel tool, which is flat and used for plastering walls or floors.
Steel shims: These gaps are used to provide precise alignment to make the surfaces level.
Pry bar: It is used to separate two objects and to lift heavy objects or items.
How to install precast concrete steps?
Precast has become a very big trend nowadays. This trend is only because of its benefits. But many homeowners want to know how to install precast concrete steps.
In this section, you will learn all the step-by-step details related to precast concrete installation.
1. Removal of the old steps
House owners want their steps to be replaced due to their low maintenance. These concrete steps are removed with the help of a jackhammer.
2. Cleaning
If there are no steps present in the area where steps need to be installed, clean the area first. If old steps are already present, clean them thoroughly before replacing the steps.
3. Measuring
Some are required for installing concrete steps. A measuring tape is used to measure the steps. This tool is also used to determine the height of the steps.
4. Stable place for precast step installation
Are you installing the precast step for the first time? If yes, it is important for precast concrete that the foundation is completely stable.
If the foundation is not stable, all the material will sink inside. Therefore, before installing the steps, excavate almost 12 inches. The 8 inches will be used for gravelling and the 4 inches will be used for concrete.
Apply the layer
The first process is to pour crushed stone to a thickness of 8 inches. This gravel layer lets excess water drain when it rains. It is important to level it using a hand tamper.
Once the surface is level, add rebar. For columns, maintain a distance of 2 feet between rebars. Most of you want to know what the distance should be between the rows.
For rows, a distance of 1 ft must be maintained between rebars. These rebars are intersected using steel ties and tie twisters. The height of the rebar depends on the gravel layer so that it can be inside the concrete sheet.
Pouring concrete
Precast steps are placed on the slab. Concrete is mixed to form a thickness of 4 inches. The top surface is smoothed using a trowel. The concrete is left for 72 hours to cure. After the concrete cures, it is used for the steps.
Installing the steps
When the concrete slab cures, install the concrete steps. Use the tool to lift the steps to the place where needed.
Top Benefits of Precast Concrete Steps in Construction
Explore the benefits of precast stairs that are necessary to know: Let's talk about them in detail.
Fast and efficient installation
The installation of the biggest precast steps happens very quickly. If you use the traditional method, it takes many days. If you use precast steps, then your work will be completed in just a few hours.
Time saving
These concrete steps are much easier to install as compared to poured concrete. As soon as you call for precast detailing services, your work will be completed within hours.
Cost effective
This method is very effective as it reduces labour costs and speeds up the installation process. This process doesn't need much on-site work; you just need to place the steps correctly.
Weather resistance
To make precast concrete steps, you have to face the weather conditions. Unlike wooden steps, concrete steps do not develop cracks. This is a long-term investment, so you do not have to replace them frequently.
Safety considerations you need to know while installing precast concrete
Are you aware of the common mistakes people make while installing steps of concrete?
In this section, you will get some important points for installing precast steps :
- Workers should wear proper hard hats, boots, and safety glasses before starting work to handle precast concrete properly.
- Tools should be checked clearly before use to ensure they are working correctly and to avoid any difficulties.
- Before placing precast steps, make sure the ground foundation is stable.
- If you are working at night, it is necessary to have proper lighting arrangements.
- Before installing the steps, ensure that there is an appropriate space where the steps need to be installed.
Pricing Guide for Precast Concrete Steps
Many people are confused, thinking that installing precast stairs costs only $100. Does this include labour cost? Let's talk about the precast concrete cost in detail
I am providing you with the basic table in which you can better estimate the cost of a precast staircase.
Final Thoughts
Precast concrete steps are a very affordable and fast process. After reading the whole blog, I hope you will no longer face any difficulty in the installation steps. If you are a contractor and want to know the cost estimation for installing steps. SMA Estimating LLC is here to provide complete guidance on the budget estimation.
Tags : concrete precast construction
