granite steps

[chuck172]

I don't know if this is the proper forum for this.
Has anyone installed front granite entry steps? For some reason I can't seem to get good info on this. I need front entry steps, have a tractor with forks, thinking this might be a good spring project.

 

[ishiboo]

Sure, what kind of info do you need?

I saw a trick on This Old House... Rodger uses ice under the blocks so the straps can be removed (hang the steps via nylon straps below the forks, the forks will make nasty marks).

 

[davesl708]

Sure, what kind of info do you need?

I saw a trick on This Old House... Rodger uses ice under the blocks so the straps can be removed (hang the steps via nylon straps below the forks, the forks will make nasty marks).

I saw that episode. Worked great. Ice also gives you time to get everything lined up and level.
Good luck with the project.

 

[chuck172]

what's needed as far as footings?

 

[ishiboo]

what's needed as far as footings?

If it cannot move at all, technically standard footings below the frost line.

Most people use just a base (4-6") of crusher run, decomposed granite, etc.

 

[chuck172]

so a base for the first one, the next will be ontop and canterlevered over the first. Does it need a base or just a level area behind the first?

 

[jel1988]

How many steps will there be? More rises will be difficult to adjust after a few frost cycles. If you have more than 3 rises I would sink a two 12" sono tubes (concrete filled) below frost on the bottom riser and save back breaking required to adjust 500 lb. blocks of stone. If less than 3 rises 6" of gravel that will pack tight is a bare minimum, a foot would be better. Dampen and pack in at least two layers.

 

[ishiboo]

As jel said, more details would be nice. How many steps? Are these going up a slope, or are they on flat ground?

If it's a few (2-3 steps), most people would do a flat pad and have each step be progressively smaller, i.e. the first one is 4'x3', second one is 3'x'3, top one is 2'x3' and they stack on each other. If it's a lot you have to figure out how you're going do it.

 

[Egon]

What does your area code require?

What type of granite rock?

 

[chuck172]

These steps are on a slope (of course) 6'rise. The run or distance is about 25'.
The steps are to my front door.