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Front Stoop/Steps advice needed!

13 years ago
Just purchased the house! Added shutters and painted the door tealish blue. Yes, the door color is bold but I like it and the uniqueness it adds to house.

Now, about the stairs. They are slanted and I dont like the way they look. Here are options I'm considering in order of cost...

1. Paint the concrete porch a darker color and add a bench to take away from the slant. (This could also be a great temp solution until we make an expensive discussion.)

2. Build a small wood stairs and patio over the concrete porch (Not sure there is enough room between the door and cement.

3. Tile over it (after we make it level, if making it level is a possibilty.)

4. Replace it all together with something fancy that costs alot of money.

I would LOVE to hear your thoughts and suggestions!

Comments (6)

  • 13 years ago
    Hi. I may be reading this wrong, but I think all you need to do is build the lower stair outwards, and stain the concrete to match the roof. I think that looks neat 'n sweet. Pretty house.
  • 13 years ago
    Thanks Rina! I never thought of extending the lower stair but that seems to make a huge impact. Would you also stain the pad in front of the stairs? The only issue I have with this solution is the concrete is still slanted! If you looks closely, the stairs slant right to left. Its at least an inch lower on the left than the right.
  • 13 years ago
    You may find a concrete contractor (or general handyman) who could jack up your steps and level them, provided they are solid and not cracked. I would try to get an estimate on cost. May not be very expensive. Could also get a quote on extending the bottom step at the same time.
  • 13 years ago
    I don't think I would stain the pad; not sure. I like the way the steps are contained in the line of the house. I'm pretty sure, though, if you consult someone who knows concreting, that the slant (which I can hardly see) would not be difficult or expensive to correct, especially if you offer extending the lower step as part of the job. Some kind of screed should do it. Is the slant uncomfortable to walk on? Because if not, you could disguise it by simply putting a square planter to the left of the porch, next to the door, and planting the prettiest pelargonium (geranium) you can find. Or, if it doesn't get sun, one of the smaller azaleas. Whatever works where you are. Even a square basket piled high with pretty coloured balls -- or pine cones for Christmas -- would work. Square, to cover the visual signal provided by the siding that there is a slant. Who needs to know? A round one might work as well.

    I'll be available for more chat tomorrow if need be. It's supper time where I am. Wicked thought from one who is used to petty theft: if you cut the bottom off the basket, anyone who tries to lift it will find themselves with a mess of balls or pine cones and a basket that's of no use to them whatsoever.
  • 13 years ago
    Great ideas! I'm going to get a quote regarding raising the concrete as well as adding to the step. I do know that I prefer the concrete stained. That is one thing I will do for sure.