GC Construction Services specializes in the design, framework, reinforcement, and installation of structural concrete stair systems for large scale construction projects in the greater Raleigh area. We are contracted by large commercial and residential developers that need assistance with multi story buildings, parking decks, campuses, medical centers, and large residential developments. Constructing concrete stairs at scale with precision is not a simple task that can be completed by any concrete contractor. It requires precision planning, an in-depth knowledge of code compliance and structural engineering, and job site coordination.
GC Construction Service provides custom-tailored solutions to fit your project’s blueprints and timeline. Our process driven approach is designed to meet the demands of large-scale development projects. Reach out to GC Construction Services to request a proposal on an upcoming project. Click the call now or request estimate buttons below.
Our Concrete Stair Building Process
Preconstruction Coordination and Planning
The success of a project is determined long before the first pound of concrete is poured. GC Construction Services team analyzes the structural and architectural plans of every project. Our in-depth analysis allows us to ensure that the stair dimensions, landing configurations, elevations, and concrete reinforcement details are in compliance with building codes and match the structural engineer’s plans. Our ability to work as one cohesive unit with site superintendents, architects, and other trades allows us to work in a way that helps your project gain momentum. We understand how critical our role can be in larger projects such as high-rise or phased construction projects. Many times, our stairs will provide access to other floors of a project long before construction elevators are operational.
Before
Form and Layout
During
Our formwork layout execution is second to none. Our team uses digital layout tools to establish exact elevations, tread and riser configurations, as well as stair landing heights. Most of our formwork is custom-built on site. However, there are some instances when we may prepare formwork off-site in order to expedite the process. Our formwork process is designed to provide consistent and repeatable results. Our ability to recreate multiple stair towers on large projects with precision is one of the many reasons commercial and residential developers choose to work with GC Construction Services. In multistory buildings, we mat pre-stage stair landing and stair flight forms in a modular fashion which allows us to take less time between concrete pours. It also reduces labor costs. Our experience in the industry allows us to expedite projects with concrete stairs without sacrificing the quality of work.
Our high quality formwork processes create:
- Consistency of stair tread and riser heights in order to reduce the likelihood of injury.
- Proper alignment of nosing to ensure the stairs meet OSHA and ADA standards.
- Integration of concrete landing slabs with wall and railing embeds.
- Clean and tight edges to support any architectural finishes.
Structural Integration and Steel Reinforcements
Concrete stairs at large commercial or residential developments need to be capable of carrying significantly larger loads than other types of structures. Due to need for increased load capacity, concrete stairs need to be properly tied into the surrounding structure. GC Construction Services installs specialized rebar cages for concrete stair landings and flights of stairs, to ensure the stairs have the necessary support and ability to transfer the load from the stairs to the surrounding structure. One portion of our quality control process involves checking and documenting structural reinforcements and rebar before each concrete pour to started.
Here are some of the types of support we create for concrete stairs:
- Diagonal and horizontal bars placed to ACI specifications.
- Continuous rebar between stair flights and stair landings.
- Proper tie-wire and chairing techniques to prevent movement during concrete pour.
- Tying into steel plates or post-installed anchors for the railing systems.
Concrete Placing and Finishing
Concrete placement for stairs takes a great deal of technical skill and is almost a science. It is best to use high strength mixes such as 4,000-5,000 PSI with additives added to reduce shrinkage, improve workability, and enhance the quality of the finish. Stairs can have really tight formwork so concrete placement needs to be done with precision to prevent concrete segregation. Some of the most important areas we focus on for finishing include the edges, control joints, and nosings. Our team may finish by hand or by machine depending on the scale and aesthetical needs of the project. We always use the finishing method that creates the best end-product for you. Additionally, we will install expansion joints and water stops to accommodate building movement and exposure to the elements.
Here are the most common types of finishes we are required to do on concrete stairs:
- Trowel Finishes – Trowel finishes are usually done for utility stairs or areas that are not public facing. A trowel finish is intended to create a textures surface to prevent someone from slipping.
- Broom Finishes – A broom finish is smoother than a trowel finish and typically seen on stairs found on the exterior of a building that may come into contact with the elements. Broom finishes create a slip resistant surface.
- Architectural Finishes– GC Construction Services provides a wide range of finishes to meet achieve your architectural and aesthetic needs. If you need colored concrete stairs to match your building plans or a sandblasted surface on your interior stairs to create a non-slip surface, GC Construction Services can achieve the exact finish your project requires.
Concrete Curing, Protection, and QA/QC
Once we have finished pouring the concrete, we will transition our focus to protecting and curing the concrete stairs. We use curing compounds, install protective coverings, and restrict access to the concrete until the concrete stairs have reached their full strength. Concrete stairs are usually places early on large scale jobs. Therefore, we coordinate with all of the on-site teams to make sure the stairs are able to be used without compromising the structural integrity or finish of the concrete stairs.
All of the concrete stair work that we do goes through our own internal quality control checks to ensure we are always in compliance with regulations and project requirements.
Here are some of the most common checks that we do for concrete stairs:
- Riser and tread dimensions compliance check to ensure they comply with ADA, IBC, and IRC regulations.
- Tolerance compliance check to make sure everything is within 1/8 of an inch throughout the entire run.
- Surface hardness and finish consistency.
- Embedment locations and alignment.
Specialized Capabilities for Demanding Projects
GC Construction Services’ goal is not just to meet the construction code requirements. Our goal is to exceed the elevated standards and expectations of modern commercial and industrial environments.
ADA Compliant Stair Systems
Our team at GC Construction Services specializes in ADA projects. We are very familiar with ADA and ANSI A117.1 accessibility standards. That means we know how to abide by the ADA standards to create proper handrail configurations, detectable warnings at landings, integrate with ramp systems, create compliant riser and tread ratios, and more. We are your local ADA concrete construction experts. Whether your project is for public use or a private facility, GC Construction Services will make sure your project meets accessibility guidelines.
Architectural Concrete Finishes
GC Construction Services works with your general contractors, architects, and foremen to create impeccable concrete stairs that will exceed expectations. Whether those stairs have a polished, stained, or textured finish, we will deliver the highest grade quality of craftsmanship. We have the experience and expertise to achieve consistent coloration and patterning throughout multiple concrete pours. Additionally, we go to great lengths to protect architectural elements from being damaged during the construction process. Concrete stairs we have created can be found in courtyards, parks, large buildings, and other structures throughout the Raleigh, Cary, and Durham North Carolina area. Stairs are a main focal point at any location. Because of that, any minor imperfection will be noticed by countless numbers of people. We give concrete stairs the attention they deserve so our concrete stairs will stand up to the test of time and look great for many years to come.
Trusted by Builders Across the Triangle
GC Construction Services is headquartered in Cary North Carolina. However, we serve the greater Triangle area which includes: Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, and other surrounding cities. Our extensive experience ranges from cast in place stair towers in high rise office complexes to complex precast installations in city parks. The quality of our work is not the only things we are well known for. We have been in the commercial construction industry for many years. GC Construction Services understands the pace of commercial construction as well as the importance of meeting deadlines. Our company will meet deadlines and not hold up your construction timeline all while providing you the highest quality of concrete work. We will always communicate clearly and have an open line of communication with other members of the construction team.
Call or Request Project Bid
GC Construction Services is ready to talk to you about your project that needs concrete stairs. Reach out to use below by clicking the Call Now or Request Project Bid button below. We are your local concrete stair contractors that are ready to deliver durable, code compliant, and visually precise stair system that will exceed your expectations.