Do concrete steps need a foundation?

• <div><p>Some local authorities and building codes require that you secure concrete stairs to the foundation wall or to your concrete slab. Check with your local building department for guidance. For older homes without a foundation, you’ll need to install a new footing or base beneath the steps. This could be a simple gravel bed or a more complex concrete footing, which a professional concrete contractor can help you with. </p></div>

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Q: What maintenance is required for concrete installations?

• <div><p>Periodic sealing and cleaning to maintain appearance and integrity.</p></div>

Q: What is the proper rise and run for stairs?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.iccsafe.org/">International Building Code</a> requires individual step risers in a residential staircase to measure between 4 and 7-3/4 inches and the maximum rise of a staircase not to exceed 12 feet between landings. Individual step treads can&rsquo;t be less than 10 inches deep. </p></div>

Q: Are concrete porches less expensive than wood?

• <div><p>A concrete porch costs about $2 to $10 per square foot upfront, while a wood porch costs about $4 to $30 per square foot, making concrete less expensive upfront. However, wood requires much more maintenance than concrete, so you&rsquo;ll need to consider the costs of staining, painting, and resealing the porch every few years, which makes wood more expensive in the long run.</p></div>

Q: How long do concrete pathways last?

• <div><p>A concrete pathway is very durable and can last upward of 30 years under normal conditions. Heavy snowfall and excessive heat may decrease this lifespan over time, as can vehicle traffic and salt applications during freezing conditions. Homeowners in extreme climates might notice cracking and deterioration after just 15 years, while those in more temperate climates should see multiple decades of life from their concrete. </p></div>

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Sentri Homes

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Sentri Homes

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29 local quotes requested

Sentri Homes is a full-service contractor delivering high-end home additions, whole-home remodels, new custom builds, luxury kitchens, structural framing, roof replacements, and every major renovation. We assign a dedicated project manager to every job, deliver meticulous craftsmanship with clear communication, and back our work with an industry-leading warranty to ensure complete peace of mind on your largest investments. Our in-house team of licensed builders and master craftsmen consistently earns 5-star reviews by turning big visions into stunning, high-value homes—when you need one trusted partner who truly does it all, we’re the proven choice.

Norwest Contracting

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Norwest Contracting

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30 years of experience. Done right the first time.

Grovom Painting

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Grovom Painting

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22 years of experience

Your HOME - Your BIGGEST INVESTMENT ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍ ‍‍Increase your home's value with a quality paint job that will protect it from Montana's extreme weather. We know that when you choose us, you are entrusting us to protect, preserve, and beautify your biggest asset—your home. ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍WWW.PAINTINGMONTANA.COM -- 406-461-6094

FLOORING AMERICA POIEMA

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FLOORING AMERICA POIEMA

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40 years of experience

Locally owned & operated business supporting our local community. We proudly serve the Flathead valley for over 25 years in flooring. Our dedicated staff has over 89 years of experience in the flooring industry dedicated in the best customer service. We provide financing through GE Capital, the national leader in providing flexible consumer credit options for all of your purchasing needs.

Paradise Fencing and Construction Company, Inc.

5.00(

)

Paradise Fencing and Construction Company, Inc.

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Paradise Fencing and Construction Company Inc. has been serving Montana since 1996. Our company is fully licensed and insured. Paradise main office is based out of Great Falls with crews traveling the state of Montana. The Fencing side of our business installs every type of fence available. If sprinkler work is needed we subcontract out the work to top rated sprinkler companies to make sure the project is done correctly. Paradise Construction performs all of the work from dirtwork to finish work. Paradise subcontracts its electrical, plumbing, and HVAC to top quality providers.

Patios questions, answered by experts

Periodic sealing and cleaning to maintain appearance and integrity.

The International Building Code requires individual step risers in a residential staircase to measure between 4 and 7-3/4 inches and the maximum rise of a staircase not to exceed 12 feet between landings. Individual step treads can’t be less than 10 inches deep.

A concrete porch costs about $2 to $10 per square foot upfront, while a wood porch costs about $4 to $30 per square foot, making concrete less expensive upfront. However, wood requires much more maintenance than concrete, so you’ll need to consider the costs of staining, painting, and resealing the porch every few years, which makes wood more expensive in the long run.

A concrete pathway is very durable and can last upward of 30 years under normal conditions. Heavy snowfall and excessive heat may decrease this lifespan over time, as can vehicle traffic and salt applications during freezing conditions. Homeowners in extreme climates might notice cracking and deterioration after just 15 years, while those in more temperate climates should see multiple decades of life from their concrete.

Some local authorities and building codes require that you secure concrete stairs to the foundation wall or to your concrete slab. Check with your local building department for guidance. For older homes without a foundation, you’ll need to install a new footing or base beneath the steps. This could be a simple gravel bed or a more complex concrete footing, which a professional concrete contractor can help you with.

The Terry, MT homeowners’ guide to patio services

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