Concrete sleeper steps are durable and engineered landscaping stairs built in uneven slope terrain to gain safe access. They are built in gardens, backyards, parks, and places where pathways are required in even landscapes. The material used to build concrete sleeper steps includes precast material, steel-reinforced concrete sleepers, and galvanised steel frames that provide attractive and durable stairs to support heavy foot traffic and weather conditions.
When building concrete sleeper steps, knowing proper procedure, methods, and placing proper equipment is important. In this guide, we provide information to help you in building concrete sleeper steps from the planning process to giving the finishing touch. Also, we provide practical tips and common mistakes to avoid for a successful and durable build of concrete sleeper steps.
Why Concrete Sleeper Steps are Popular Choice for Outdoor landscaping?
Concrete sleeper steps are built using durable construction materials to provide durability in outdoor landscaping projects. They are popular because of their durability, appearance, low maintenance requirements, and design flexibility.
-
Durability and longevity: Concrete sleeper steps are the preferred choice because of their longevity and durability in comparison to traditional timber sleepers. The concrete sleepers are resistant to termites and last longer.
-
Load-bearing capacity: The concrete sleeper steps have better structural stability due to their high load-bearing capacity. The load bearing capacity made the concrete steel the best choice for outdoor landscaping in retaining wall projects or concrete sleeper step building projects.
-
Low maintenance: One of the key reasons for concrete sleeper steps being popular is their low maintenance requirements. They do not require regular painting or replacement and can be easily cleaned using brushes and water.
-
Appearance: As concrete sleeper steps come in various designs, they provide a modern, smooth, and timber-style appearance. Its appearance made it one of the appealing choices for outdoor landscaping projects.
Building Concrete Sleeper Steps
When building concrete sleeper steps, you are required to follow proper procedures for durability and get a good finish. Whether you are an experienced builder or a DIY builder, you need proper planning, ground preparation, installation, and proper finishing touches. In addition, the drainage factor is also important to consider during the installation.
Planning and Measuring Your Steps
Planning and measuring your steps' height, size, and slope will be the first step to ensure they are safe and comfortable. This step involves measuring the slope’s height (rise), estimating the number of steps, and measuring the step depth, or tread. The appropriate step height or rise should be between 150 and 200 mm, and the depth of the tread must be between 300-400 mm.
Preparing the Ground
Ground preparation includes managing the base for making stable steps. You should prepare the ground by digging the area where your first sleeper sits. Ground preparation also include managing drainage, compacting gravel, and checking surface level to provide even finishing.
Installing Concrete Sleepers Step-by-Step
Following base preparation, you must start installing concrete sleepers following a step-by-step method. Start installing concrete sleepers from the bottom while checking the level and position properly. After checking the level, backfill using gravel or stone chips and compact it firmly.
Adding Proper Drainage
Drainage is very important for the long-term durability and stability of the concrete sleeper step. Ignoring drainage cause water deposits and increases the chance of building hydrostatic pressure on the structure. Installing drainage pipes and using geofabric rolls helps to hold soil and pass water to drain.
Finishing Touches
To give a smooth appearance, finishing touch is important. You can give a finishing appearance by filling the step surface with gravel, sand, and decorative pebbles or stones. These help to create a non-slippery surface while also providing a natural look. Remove dirt and unwanted soil, and clean the area. Adding decorative plants, flowers, or edging helps to improve the appearance of the project.
Practical Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid for Success
Following practical guidelines and getting familiar with common mistakes helps to increase the chance of project success. As a do-it-yourself (DIY) or expert builder, you can follow the practical tips below to avoid common mistakes in building concrete. Sleeper Steps:
-
Start with measurement of the project area according to your requirements
-
Prepare base by making it strong and firm
-
Check level and alignment of sleepers to give firm appearance
-
Consider installing a proper drainage system to avoid water damage, soil erosion, and failure of structure.
-
Choose durable construction materials to make sure they withstand pressure, weather, and pest infestation.
-
Use proper manual handling techniques while lifting heavy sleepers to avoid physical injuries.
Conclusion
Building concrete sleeper steps ensures durability, longevity, attractive appeal, and reliable construction during landscaping projects. They are popular because of their durability, weather resistance properties, and ability to withstand pest infestation. Every DIY or experienced builder can follow a step-by-step procedure to build a concrete retaining wall that involves planning and measuring the construction surface to Installing Concrete Sleepers, adding drainage, and giving proper finishing.
Following practical project tips such as using proper handling techniques, choosing durable construction materials, and measuring the stair level continuously ensures safety, durability, and appearance. Visit Austrina Steels for durable construction materials for your concrete sleeper step building process or any construction projects
