Steps or Stairs
Looking for steps for your entrance?
Experience in Stair Construction
The skills for creating practical stairs from scratch has been honed from years of experience. We’ve learned the importance of using large single slabs for steps instead of smaller blocks which can move independently. This ensures that the steps remain stable and settling evenly in the face of Northern Ontario’s freeze and thaw cycles.
Consistency in Step Heights
It’s important to know that each consecutive step needs to be at a consistant height. One step in the middle that is either too high or too low may become a tripping hazard. There is a minimum 5″ and a maximum 8″ step height and you need a step slope to shed water. When you combine that with your overall height it’s like trying to hit a moving target. Your contractor needs to be contantly checking heights for each installed step in order for the last step fall in place.
The stair tread is where you place your foot on top of the step. Most contractors install the simple coping stones with a tread depth of only 12″. We like to install a step with at least 14″ tread depth giving you adequate area to plant your entire foot. This extra depth is beneficial when you have snow build up on your step you still have extra space for your boots.
When your stairs or landings overall height exceed 24″, you may need aluminum railings or privacy walls, which can attach to concrete or stone stairs. In certain situations, railings could be replaced with flower beds or retaining walls to bridge the 24″ gap. Either way we have deal with pretty much every senario when it comes to entrances. We would be more than happy to help you make these hard decisions easier.
Quality and Attention to Detail
We offer a variety of materials to choose from, including concrete block, composite wood, granite, flagstone and natural stone. When it comes to picking materials colours it’s easier when the contract knows what you want and that comes experience dealing with brick suppliers. Every contractor will builds stairs differently using the same materials. You want to be sure you are getting the right contractor that knows all the details. With NorthStead, you can be confident that your project will be of the highest quality. At NorthStead, we believe in going above and beyond to make your project look great. Remember it doesn’t cost more to make your project look good, it’s choosing the right company.