Follow along on our journey to getting new stairs!

Ten years ago, when we purchased our home, the steps leading from the sidewalk to the front yard were made of pavers, seemingly a DIY project that was executed well. However, over time, the steps settled in a manner that posed a safety hazard and a liability. I have longed for new steps and often found myself admiring other well-maintained ones in the neighborhood (probably making my neighbors a bit nervous!).

The pictures show the deteriorating condition that needed urgent attention. Initially, when I seriously considered hiring someone, Seattle was in the midst of a concrete strike. I refrained from approaching anyone at that time due to rumors that obtaining concrete was nearly impossible, unless acquired through unconventional means (yes, someone actually mentioned that to me, which was quite surprising for a basic building material)!

Now, in 2024, I am taking action and getting it done! After seeking recommendations from my colleagues, two highly regarded agents suggested the same person, and upon hearing the name, I was certain he was the right concrete professional for the job. Enter Tommy Smith: the most pleasant concrete contractor a girl could meet!

The steps: the piece that started it all. The pictures doesn’t do their condition full justice, but you can tell they are uneven. The settling is the worst part, and the top two steps are very wonky.

To cut costs, we opted to handle the small demo project by ourselves and remove all the pavers without external help. Fortunately, we had a few lovely days leading up to the first day of Spring, so we dove into the task! It was challenging, and I felt a bit achy afterward, but the effort was definitely rewarding. Below are some snapshots of our efforts.

We were able to give away all the pavers from the steps very quickly via a post to our local Facebook group which was awesome because we really didn’t want to pay to have them hauled away (we were quoted almost $1,000 for a dump removal!). We are thinking we might use some of the smaller paver “bricks” for an area in our backyard. After we finish that project, we will probably make another post for the remaining “bricks”.

Since we opted to do the demo ourselves, we had to hold our mail for the week. We also directed all deliveries to our backdoor. Just a couple slight inconveniences while we wait for the stairs to be installed, but well worth it.

Phase Two: Building out the Forms!

Starting bright and early on a Monday morning, the A-1 NW crew started the task of preparing for the concrete pour. At one point during our numerous conversations about getting new steps, my husband thought he would build out the forms himself. After watching the crew work during this day, we are both so relieved we hired the experts to handle this job! It is truly an art form, and they worked a full day to make sure everything was perfectly prepared. Now we simply have to wait for a non-rainy day for the concrete pour. I find I am so excited I can hardly wait! I’m already planning new landscaping around the steps and looking at Pinterest for curb appeal ideas.

Concrete Day!

On a sunny Friday, amidst a stretch of rain-free days, Tommy arrived with a large concrete truck to initiate the concrete pouring. These occasions tend to capture the attention of neighbors, especially those with young children, and today was no different. The truck was present for a brief period, while the team spent half a day smoothing out the concrete, brushing it (to prevent slipping when wet), and perfecting the stairs. The nearing completion of the project is truly thrilling! We must allow the concrete to dry until Monday before walking on it, which means a few more days until we can access our mail again. Additionally, we have a specialist scheduled to visit on Monday to provide a quote and design for a new handrail. I am eagerly anticipating his proposals as it will serve as the final touch that brings the project together. Until then, check out the pictures below to relive all the excitement of concrete day!

Final Day

After the concrete had time to set over the sunny weekend, Tommy returned to our house on a Monday morning to take away the last form pieces and tidy up the work area. His work was truly exceptional, and we are thrilled with the final result. If you're ever in need of concrete work, I wholeheartedly endorse Tommy! Check here for his contact details!