If you are considering replacing stairs on an existing home, this post should give good insight as to what the process involves.

Preparation:

Truck access is very important. There is no need to begin removing your old steps until you are sure that we can get our truck in to install the new steps.

Things to keep in mind are:

• low tree branches that have to be trimmed
• know the location of your septic tank (our truck cannot drive over it)

Obviously the very first part of this procedure would be to remove the old steps. We remove them using a mini excavator or of you are in a tight spot, we can also remove them by hand.

Removal of the old steps may reveal that the wooden sill under the house is rotted due to constant exposure to moisture. If this is the case, the best time to repair it would be after the old stairs are removed. Depending on how bad the rot is, a carpenter may be needed to repair the area. It might help to have a carpenter lined up if you think you might have a problem with rot.

Installing precast stairs:

1. Steel brackets are bolted to the foundation using concrete anchors. These will be used to catch the legs at the back of the stairs.

2. Small concrete pads are set under each side of the steps toward the front of the unit. These pads are set slightly lower than the brackets so that the stairs are pitched forward for water run off

3. The precast stairs are then set on the brackets and pads using a boom truck. Solid steel shims are used to make small adjustments if necessary.

4. If your stairs require railings, they would be installed at this time. The railings are installed in the precast unit and held in place with anchoring cement.

Of course not every situation allows for this type of installation. We an use other means such as a large concrete pad or frost footings if the situation requires it.

Contact us and have a professional come out to evaluate the best step for your situation

There are basically 3 professional services that make up a bulkhead installation on an existing home. First you must excavate the area. The second step is to cut the opening or remove the old bulkhead. The third is to install the precast unit with a steel top. The excavator then returns to backfill the area around the new bulkhead.

Scheduling different contractors to complete a project like this can be difficult and stressful. It is crucial that everything is completed on time and that everyone works together. Once the excavator digs the hole, it is essential that job is completed in a timely manner.

Means Precast offers this entire service as one! We offer free estimates, and will help you decide on a location best suitable for your precast bulkhead. We will call Dig Safe, dig the hole, cut the opening, install the bulkhead, and backfill! Most jobs can be completed in one day. Having Means Precast do the entire job ensures that each step is done effectively so that the next goes smoothly.

*First and foremost, we must be able to get heavy equipment into the area*

For access, we have a large truck that must be able to get within a short distance of where the bulkhead is to be installed.

The steps we take for installing a precast bulkhead are as follows:

1. Choose a location that will best suit the needs of the basement egress.
2. Call Digsafe.
Digsafe notifies utility companies of the proposed excavation. The utility companies will send their own personnel to mark any underground lines in the area of your excavation. www.digsafe.com
3. Excavate the area.
Dig the hole large enough for the installation of the new precast bulkhead
4. Cut the opening.
Using a concrete saw. We will cut an opening in your foundation wall.
If you have an existing bulkhead we will remove it. No concrete cutting would be necessary
5. Install the precast unit and steel top.
6. Backfill the bulkhead.

Working with means precast allows you to completely relax. Make one phone call to us and we will take care of the entire project for you.

Bulkhead Photo Gallery

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Here are some pictures of a recently completed curb appeal project.

Existing steps and walkway

Let the demolition begin!

Demolition almost complete

Angle brackets and pads set for the installation of new precast stone tread stairs

pads installed for the driveway stairs

Precast stone tread stairs installed

Walkway formed and ready to pour

Job Completed!

• Quick Installation – no formwork, pouring, or cure time
• Constructed in a controlled environment to ensure optimal strength
• Controlled environment ensures clean finish to exacting dimensions
• Many decorative options available including stone, brick, and granite

Read article at All Things Concrete.