How to Build Concrete Stairs: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Category	Traditional Mixing (Wheelbarrow + Shovel)	MudMixer Continuous Mixing
Labor Time (per 10 steps)	3–4 workers, 3–4 hours	1–2 workers, 1–2 hours
Labor Cost (average $25/hr)	$225–$400	$50–$100
Output Consistency	Varies (soupy/dry batches common)	Consistent mix every time
Material Waste	5–10% due to poor ratios	Minimal to none
Productivity	Limited by batch size	Continuous flow, no downtime
Equipment Cost	Low upfront, higher labor costs long term	Higher upfront, lower costs long term

Building Concrete Stairs on a Tight Budget?

If you’re building on a budget, consider renting the MudMixer. It’ll reduce labor time and eliminate the need for multiple batches, allowing you to focus on the quality of your stairs without breaking the bank. After one rental, you might be convinced to buy one yourself!

Building Stair Forms

Stair forms are crucial to ensuring your concrete stairs are stable, secure, and properly aligned. The forms hold the concrete in place while it sets, creating the final shape of your stairs. 

Here’s how to build a sturdy stair form:

1. Excavate and level dirt at your stair location to ensure a stable base.

2. Set wood sidewalls and riser forms to match the measurements you took earlier.

3. Add stakes and cross supports for added stability and to hold your forms in place.

4. Form the bottom step first and build up, making sure each step is level and properly aligned.

Can I Pour Concrete Stairs Over Dirt?

You can pour concrete stairs over dirt, but only if the soil is compacted and reinforced. A safer and recommended option is to lay down a gravel base and add rebar reinforcement for added stability.

What’s the Best Reinforcement for Concrete Steps?

Use #3 or #4 rebar across both the treads and risers to ensure your stairs have sufficient structural integrity. For smaller stairs, wire mesh reinforcement can also work.

Mixing Concrete for Stairs

A strong concrete mix is essential not only for creating long-lasting stairs but also for making the entire project smoother and more efficient. When the mix is consistent, it reduces the time spent adjusting the mixture and minimizes mistakes, ensuring that everyone involved, whether it’s you or a team, is working with the best material possible.

#1 Concrete Mix Ratio

You can mix your own blend of cement, sand, and gravel, but we recommend using pre-mixed concrete bags like Quikrete® or Sakrete®. Bagged mixes are consistent, convenient, and work seamlessly with the MudMixer. No need to measure or re-mix. Just load the bags, pour, and get durable stairs without the extra steps.

#2 MudMixer’s Benefits

With MudMixer, mixing is quick and easy. Simply add the concrete bag mix and water, then start pouring. The continuous mixing process guarantees your concrete is consistently mixed every time. No more worrying about soupy or dry batches.

This saves time, reduces material waste, and helps your project stay on track.

In the Mix: First-Time DIY Concrete Stairs

Watching the process in action can be extremely helpful. Check out this video to see how MudMixer makes mixing and pouring concrete for your stairs easier and more efficient.

Pouring the Concrete

Pouring concrete is the final step where everything comes together. 

Here’s how to make sure you do it right:

1. Start from the bottom step and pour the concrete evenly across the form.

2. Vibrate or tap the concrete to remove air pockets.

3. Place rebar/steel reinforcement as you go, ensuring it’s embedded well within the concrete.

4. Screed the surface with a level or screed board, making sure each tread is smooth and each riser is level.

Pro Tip: Work One Step at a Time

Focus on one step at a time to ensure the concrete sets evenly and that you maintain the proper angle and strength.

How Thick Should Concrete Stairs Be?

Concrete stairs should have a minimum tread thickness of 4 inches. Depending on the load and stair dimensions, the thickness may need to increase for added strength and durability.

Finishing and Curing the Stairs

Once your stairs are poured, you’ll need to finish them. 

• Broom finish is ideal for exterior stairs as it provides better traction, especially when wet.

• Smooth finish is best for interior or patio stairs.

• Round edges of each tread to prevent chipping and improve durability.

Curing: Cover the concrete with plastic or damp burlap and keep it moist for at least 7 days to ensure a solid cure. Sealing the concrete after curing will help it resist weather and wear over time.

Concrete Curing Process Timeline 

Curing Phase	Timeline	Key Actions & Tips
First 24 Hours	0–24 hours	Keep the concrete moist to prevent drying too quickly. Cover with plastic or damp burlap to trap moisture. Avoid heavy foot traffic or vibrations.
First Week	1–7 days	Maintain moisture through damp covering. Keep covered with plastic or burlap for the full 7 days, especially in dry or hot climates. Light traffic is okay, but avoid heavy loads.
28 Days	7–28 days	Concrete is fully cured after 28 days, but continue to avoid heavy loads or extreme conditions. After 7 days, you can begin using your stairs, but be cautious of sharp impacts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Building concrete stairs can be tricky, and there are a few mistakes that can derail your project:

• Uneven riser height can cause tripping hazards.

• Inadequate reinforcement can lead to cracks and structural failures.

• Removing forms too early can cause the concrete to shift or lose its shape.

• Incorrect water-to-mix ratio can result in either too soupy or too dry concrete (MudMixer solves this problem for you).

Maintenance and Longevity

Concrete stairs are low maintenance compared to wooden stairs. With proper sealing, they’ll resist weather, erosion, and wear for many years. Here are some tips for keeping your stairs in top shape:

• Apply an anti-slip finish for safety.

• Regularly clear dirt and debris to prevent staining and damage.

• Sealing your stairs will protect them from moisture and extend their lifespan.

Concrete Stairs Made Simple

Building a concrete staircase may seem like a big task. But by following this guide, you can build high-quality concrete stairs that will stand the test of time. From the planning phase to curing, every step can be made easier with MudMixer. 

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