Prepare Stair Base and Pour Concrete Pad

What happens in this clip

Attach a pressure-treated 2x4 to the front edge of the deck, ensuring it is level and securely fastened. This 2x4 will serve as the attachment point for the stair stringers. Next, create a concrete pad for the base of the stairs. Dig a rectangular trench, approximately 6 inches deep and the desired width/length for the stair landing area. Construct a wooden form using 2x4s to outline the concrete pad, ensuring it is level and square. Add a layer of gravel within the form for drainage and stability. Lay wire mesh reinforcement within the form before pouring the concrete. Mix Quikrete concrete in a wheelbarrow to a consistent, workable texture. Pour the concrete into the form, spreading it evenly and leveling it with a screed board. Use a concrete float to smooth the surface, then allow it to cure. Once cured, carefully remove the wooden form boards.

What's used

Tools

• Concrete Float
• Framing Nailer
• Level (Empire)
• Measuring Tape
• Screed Board
• Shovel

Materials

• Construction Nails
• Gravel
• Pressure-Treated 2x4 Lumber
• Quikrete Concrete Mix Quikrete
• Wire Mesh Reinforcement

About the full video

This project details the complete process of replacing old concrete front steps with a new, durable composite deck and stairs. It covers concrete demolition, foundation preparation with footings and a ledger board, constructing the deck frame, installing the composite decking, building and installing new concrete base for stairs, cutting and attaching stair stringers, installing composite stair treads and risers, and finally, installing a PVC railing system.

Step 1 of 8: Prepare the Stair Location

Clear vegetation, debris, and any obstacles from the ground where the base of the deck stairs will rest. Ensure the ground is level and compacted to provide a stable foundation for the stringers. If the ground is soft, consider adding a layer of gravel or concrete pavers for better support.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

• Prepare Base and Install Stair Stringers