Concrete Steps and Landings for Walkout Basements in Calgary

Start with how people move

I like an entrance that feels calm when you carry groceries or walk out with a toddler. Concrete steps should feel the same from the first tread to the last, and concrete landings should give you a place to turn without rushing.

Omega 2000 looks at concrete steps and concrete landings as one build. They focus on safety, drainage, and finish choices that stand up to winter use.

What winter does to concrete

Let’s break it down. Calgary puts concrete through freeze and thaw, plus meltwater and de-icing salts.

When water sits on the surface and then freezes, concrete can scale if the mix and finishing do not match the exposure.Air-entrained concrete and careful finishing practices help reduce scaling risk in severe freezing and thawing conditions.

Step size matters more than most people think

This is the part I do not compromise on. A staircase feels safe when each step repeats.

Alberta guidance calls for consistent rise and run within a flight of stairs, and it lists ranges used for exterior stairs.

Omega 2000 sets the layout so each tread and riser stays consistent. They keep the same width where people walk so the stairs do not feel awkward.

Landings are not “extra”

Here is why. Concrete landings create a pause point. They also give you room to open the door, turn, and manage snow buildup.

Concrete landings can also tie into patios and walkways so the property reads as one route.

Drainage and slope at the stairwell

Next steps: decide where water will go before you pick a finish.

A basement entrance stairwell should move water away from the door and away from the foundation. Many waterproofing guides call for a dedicated drain at the base of the stairwell, plus a path to a weeping tile or sump system where that applies.

When the landing sheds water well, you cut down on ice at the door and reduce wet conditions on the steps.

Handrails and guard details

The city publishes a stair handrail bulletin that includes a handrail height range measured from stair nosings.

I like to plan the rail early because it affects the landing size and post locations. Omega 2000 builds concrete steps so rails can anchor cleanly at the entrance.

Finish choices: traction first, looks second

Concrete steps can look sharp, yet traction still comes first.

A broom finish gives grip on concrete steps and concrete landings. It also hides scuffs well.

Stamped concrete can bring pattern to match patios. Stamped concrete steps look best when the tread edges stay crisp. Stamped concrete also needs a sealing plan that fits winter use.

Exposed aggregate adds texture. Exposed aggregate on landings helps when meltwater refreezes.

A smooth finish can work on a sheltered landing, but I still keep traction where boots land.

Strength, curing, and timing

Some facts do not change. Many concrete specs use 28-day compressive strength as a standard checkpoint for strength.

I watch early traffic because it can scar the finish. Omega 2000 protects the concrete during curing so concrete steps and concrete landings keep their look.

Cold weather placement

Concrete Alberta notes exposure requirements and mix targets tied to Alberta conditions, including air content and water-cementing materials limits for certain exterior exposures.

That affects when a crew pours, how they protect the work, and what they allow on the steps during the first days.

When stairs feel wrong

Concrete steps feel off when landings hold water, when the grade sends meltwater toward the door, or when step sizes vary. People notice it right away.

Omega 2000 fixes the geometry, then rebuilds concrete landings and concrete steps so the entrance feels steady again.

Talk through your plan

If you want concrete steps Calgary homeowners can trust for a walkout entrance, start with photos and measurements. Share notes on water flow and the current landings.

Contact Omega 2000 to review your plan and schedule installation dates.